Man killed in a crash between two yachts on Sydney Harbour was competing in race used to qualify for Sydney to Hobart

Residents who live along the Harbour in Sydney’s eastern suburbs have been asked to check their water-facing CCTV cameras, as police investigate a tragic yacht crash on Friday night.

A man was killed when two yachts collided on Sydney Harbour while competing in a twilight race used to qualify for the prestigious Sydney to Hobart competition.

WATCH THE VIDEO ABOVE: Man dead after freak boat accident on Sydney Harbour.

The crash happened off Bradley’s Head about 6.30pm, with the man on board the yacht Pendragon suffering severe chest injuries.

The yachts had been moving around a common marker, but they were not part of the same race, NSW Police said.

There was one yacht with nine people on board, and a second yacht, with four people on board

The crew on the injured man’s yacht performed CPR on him following the collision, but he could not be saved and died at the scene.

A report will be prepared for the coroner.

Both skippers were taken for mandatory testing, while the two yachts were seized for mechanical examination.

7NEWS understands the boats were competing in the Royal Australian Navy Sailing Association’s weekly twilight race.

At least three races started around 5pm, including the Cabbage Tree Island Race, a qualifier for the annual Sydney to Hobart race which takes place on Boxing Day.

Police are now appealing for public assistance, as part of an ongoing investigation.

Foreshore residents of Watsons Bay and Vaucluse who may have CCTV footage covering the Sydney Harbour area have been asked to contact Crime Stoppers.

Anyone who was on the harbour at the time of the incident who has onboard video, including GoPro footage, has also been asked to contact police.