Sailing Year-Round on the Derwent and Beyond
With the River Derwent as our backdrop, the Derwent Sailing Squadron proudly delivers one of Tasmania’s most active and varied sailing programs. Racing takes place almost every week of the year, drawing a broad mix of local and visiting sailors.
Our Race Office is highly regarded for its professionalism and attention to detail, ensuring high-quality racing for all levels. From seasoned competitors to those stepping aboard for the first time, there are opportunities for everyone to participate.
Flagship events like the Pipe Opener Series, Two Capes Race, Launceston to Hobart, and King of the Derwent headline the calendar, but with over 150 races scheduled annually, there is always something happening on the water.
Sailing at the Squadron is social and collaborative, often requiring crew of three or more. For those without a boat, crewing provides an easy, affordable and welcoming entry into club life.
Regular racing series include:
Come Sail With Us
Be part of an exciting season filled with racing, connection, and time on the water. Whether you're a regular sailor or completely new, our team can help you find a crew position and get involved. At the Squadron, the sailing is great, and the company even better.
The club’s yacht racing series, many of which are run in conjunction with other clubs, include:
Pipe Opener Series
A much-loved and anticipated opening to the summer season, the Pipe Opener Series is held every September in partnership with Kettering Yacht Club. It includes:
With a cruising division available and social events onshore, it’s a weekend full of camaraderie and great to shake out the winter cobwebs. Cove Cup trophies are presented at Kettering on Saturday night and series prizes at the Squadron's prize night in October.
Launceston to Hobart Yacht Race (L2H)
Kicking off every December 27, the 285-nautical mile L2H takes crews from Beauty Point around Tasmania’s East Coast to Hobart. Offering serious tactical offshore competition while allowing time for Christmas at home, it’s a popular choice for local and interstate sailors. The L2H attracts a strong fleet and shares Hobart’s waterfront with the finishers of the Sydney and Melbourne to Hobart races. A yacht tracker allows friends and family to follow the action online. Entry is open to boats over 9 metres meeting Cat 3 safety standards.
For more info, visit: www.l2h-dssinc.org.au
Two Capes Race
This 82-nautical mile offshore challenge sends yachts from the Derwent through Storm Bay, rounding virtual marks south of Cape Raoul and east of Fluted Cape on the Bruny Island eastern shore. Held over a weekend in November, the Two Capes tests offshore skill and navigation, requiring evidence of mark rounding before finishing back in Hobart.
King of the Derwent
Held on January 2, the King of the Derwent is one of Tasmania’s great summer races. Drawing entries from Launceston, Melbourne and Sydney to Hobart fleets, this event has been conducted since 1979 and welcomes many boats and crews. The prestigious title is awarded to the IRC winner, with celebrations and prizegiving held on the Squadron’s waterfront lawns after racing. It’s a great end to the Christmas offshore racing season.
Twilight Sailing
With the arrival of daylight saving comes Twilight Sailing, a Squadron favourite. Every Thursday evening throughout summer, boats take to the river for relaxed, accessible racing. It’s the perfect way to unwind midweek: sail as the sun sets, then gather for drinks and dinner at the clubhouse. Newcomers are warmly welcomed, and many first-timers go on to become long-term sailors and members. To find a crew spot email our Race Office team at sailing@dssinc.org.au or call +61 3 6220 1502
Race Management
The Squadron has a proud legacy of hosting premier racing events, including in more recent times the 2018 SB20 World Championships, 2022 Australian Sharpie Nationals and the 2025 Australian Yachting Championship. Our experienced race management team ensures smooth, professional delivery across all events, from weekly club racing to major national regattas.
Interested in getting involved?
Our Race Office is known for its professionalism and attention to detail, and the quality of our racing calendar consistently draws strong support from the local and visiting sailing community. From seasoned skippers to newcomers, there’s something for everyone.
