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The COVID-19 pandemic has restricted the number of international entrants in this year's Sydney to Hobart, but the race will proceed as planned on Boxing Day.

A 100-strong fleet will contest this year's Sydney to Hobart, with the opening of Tasmania's border to NSW providing a timely boost for the iconic yacht race.

The Cruising Yacht Club of Australia (CYCA) has confirmed the event will proceed in 2020 after what it described as a "lengthy period of consultation with state governments, health authorities and other key stakeholders".

The COVID-19 pandemic will ensure this year's contest is notably different to previous editions, with several international competitors forced to miss the starting cannon.

All team briefings will be online, while CYCA social events have been scrapped.

Numbers at the CYCA and Sydney Harbour vantage points on Boxing Day will be restricted, while the Hobart marina will be closed to the general public.

"We are thrilled to have so many yachts participating this year, particularly given the general uncertainty and necessary restrictions placed on many sporting events in Australia over the past six months," CYCA commodore Noel Cornish said.

"The size of the fleet has exceeded all our expectations and is a tremendous show of support for the race.

"We are excited that we can host the Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race in this challenging year."

Previous winners Ichi Ban, Alive and Quest are among the confirmed starters.

The CYCA, located in Sydney's east, temporarily closed earlier this year after Cornish tested positive for coronavirus.