The man who died in a boat collision in Sydney Harbor has been identified as a successful businessman and experienced sailor.
Nico Lassing, 51, suffered serious chest injuries after two yachts collided about 6.30pm on Friday during the Sydney Amateur Sailing Club summer regattas.
Police and paramedics rushed to the Cruising Yacht Club of Australia (CYAC) but were unable to revive Ms Lassing.
He was known as an experienced sailor who had spent the days before his tragic death as a crew member on other yachts.
Both skippers involved in the accident were taken for mandatory testing while the yachts were seized to undergo a mechanical inspection.
The examinations will form part of a police investigation into the circumstances surrounding the deadly accident.
It is understood the two boats collided shortly before the start of the preliminary Cabbage Tree Island Race, which is the last offshore race contested by entrants before the Sydney to Hobart race begins on Boxing Day.
The CYCA said in a statement that the boats were competing in an unrelated regatta.
Nico Lassing, 51, suffered serious chest injuries after two yachts collided during the Sydney Amateur Sailing Club summer races last week.
Police launched an investigation to determine the cause of the accident and seized both yachts involved for mechanical testing (pictured, officers at the scene).
“A tragic accident occurred last night in Sydney Harbor in which a crew member died when two boats participating in non-CYCA races collided,” read the statement sent to AAP.
‘As one of the boats is usually docked at CYCA, the police used our facilities to dock the yachts involved and to interview witnesses.
‘We extend our deepest condolences to the family and friends of the deceased crew member. “Our thoughts are also with the crews and everyone affected by this devastating event.”
Officers attached to Eastern Suburbs Police Area Command were assisted by members of Marine Area Command to launch an investigation into the accident.
Police have urged anyone who witnessed the collision to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
They have also asked coastal residents of Watsons Bay and Vaucluse who may have CCTV footage from the harbor or other people on the water with onboard video to come forward.
More to come.