Strong winds have convinced the event’s organisers to change the schedule on day five.

However, crews will progress from Bermagui to Cuttagee, before heading back to Bermagui via Camel Rock.

The teams are expected to arrive in Bermagui at noon on Thursday.

The marathon’s volunteer media coordinator Kimberley Granger said competitors would have faced an uphill battle to Tathra.

“There is a strong southerly wind and it’s blowing earlier than we expected,” Ms Granger said.

“If they had done 36 kilometres from Bermagui to Tathra, it would have taken competitors eight to nine hours.

“There is a wind shock which is strong out to sea.”

Ms Granger said the 2013/14 Navy George Bass Surf Marathon will not be extended by a day.

Competitors and support staff will drive to Tathra on Thursday night.

Friday will see a 27km row from Tathra to Pambula, before the marathon finishes on Saturday with a 20km leg from Merimbula to Eden.