Broken starter motor ends Koa Syd-Hob race

A broken starter motor has ended the Sydney to Hobart campaign of NSW entry Koa, leaving a fleet of 83 bound for the finish line.

The 16m boat headed for Eden on Tuesday hoping to make repairs and continue racing but officially retired late in the day.

Victorian contender Hartbreaker, also hoping for a quick fix, is still in port and there are no reports on her damage or intention to continue the dash to Hobart.

As long as crews remain on board while repairs are undertaken they can then rejoin the race.

The number of withdrawals stand at five, including supermaxi Wild Oats XI which was forced to retire and give up a race-record lead on Tuesday morning due to hydraulic problems.

She is due to reach Eden by about 10pm (AEDT) and a bus has been chartered to return crew to Sydney.