The leading contenders have now reached the coast of Tasmania in another dramatic Sydney to Hobart yacht race

Comanche continues to have the edge over Law Connect, and has less than 300 kilometres to race.

A total of 27 yachts have now retired, including New Zealand entry V5 which pulled pin for undisclosed reasons overnight.

The Mistral - with only two crew members aboard - is also heading to shore after reports of crew injuries including broken ribs.