High-speed catamaran racing is set to return to Sydney Harbour in 2015, with the NSW Government securing the final stage of this year’s Extreme Sailing Series.

Minister for Trade, Tourism and Major Events and Minister for Sport Stuart Ayres said the event will see high performance sailing craft racing in close proximity to the Sydney Harbour foreshore, in a new-look course bounded by Garden Island, the Sydney Opera House and Fort Denison.

The free event will take place from 10-13 December.

“The Extreme Sailing Series made its first Australian appearance in Sydney last year, and I am pleased the NSW Government has secured its return through our tourism and major events agency Destination NSW,” Mr Ayres said.

“The event is expected to attract more than 3,500 domestic and international visitors, with an estimated expenditure of almost $4 million, which will provide yet another boost to the NSW visitor economy.

“Extreme Sailing is fast, competitive and entertaining, and with the breathtaking backdrop of Sydney Harbour it promises to be a thrill for spectators and competitors alike.”

The Extreme Sailing Series was established in 2007, and has been held in a number of iconic cities around the world including Amsterdam, Venice, Hong Kong, Boston and Singapore. The Sydney event is the final round of the 2015 competition, with the prestigious Champions trophies to be decided and presented in the Harbour City.

Destination NSW Chief Executive Officer Sandra Chipchase said Extreme Sailing would be another highlight on the NSW Summer Events Calendar.

“The Sydney round of the Extreme Sailing Series will attract thousands of visitors, and showcase our spectacular Harbour to sailing fans around the world. It will join blockbuster summer events like the V8 Supercars Sydney 500, the Sydney Festival, Tropfest and many more,” Ms Chipchase said.