A new test for Kiwi sailor Bianca Cook

She'll race her first Sydney-Hobart on board the Ocean Respect Racing team when racing gets underway this afternoon, joining fellow-Kiwi Keryn McMaster for an all-female entry.

Fresh off her first Volvo Ocean race, Cook says there are few adjustments to make.

She says the sails are the main difference, and are more complicated compared to those in the Volvo race.

Racing begins at 3pm.