Have you heard of the Clipper Round the World Yacht Race? If you haven’t, you are missing out on one of biggest events in the sailing world. This is the planet’s longest ocean race, bringing together amateur sailors from across the globe to participate in the 40,000 nautical-mile adventure. And in a few days, the fleet will be docked here in Airlie Beach, hub of the Whitsundays. Don’t miss out on your chance to experience a bit of sailing history in the early days of 2016.

About the Race

Considered to be an extreme test of endurance, the Clipper Round the World Yacht Race invites applicants of any experience level the chance to participate in this global challenge. This series of races takes place over nearly a year, and crew have the option to sign aboard for the entire race or select individual legs. Currently, the competitors are participating in the sixth race of the program, as they journey from Hobart to our own Coral Sea Marina Resort here in the Whitsundays. This portion of the race is expected to last approximately 10 days, placing the vessels here in the Queensland waters around January 13 and 14. The top 3 finishing teams will be awarded the Henri Lloyd Hobart to Whitsundays Race pennant in recognition of their achievement.

The Whitsundays

This is the first time in the race’s history that the fleet has planned a stop in Airlie Beach. It is a wonderful stop not only for the competitors, who will have the opportunity to enjoy one of Australia’s most glorious and beautiful regions, but it will also provide a chance for Whitsunday visitors and residents to join in the celebration of one of the most well-loved activities in this area: sailing. From the 13th until the 18th of January, join in the fun at Coral Sea Marina Resort, where a variety of events will be taking place that the whole family can enjoy. These events are totally free, and will allow you to get an authentic glimpse of life aboard a racing ship. Tour the vessels, enjoy impressive fireworks on the evening of 15th, meet the skippers and crew, and celebrate the joy and excitement of sailing and the Whitsundays. Live music, dancing, and dining events will also be a part of this experience, turning all of Airlie Beach into a party.

Want to Be Part of the Action?

While it may be too late to be a racing competitor, you can start applying for your spot for the 2017-18 season! In the meantime, join us in the Whitsundays for this spectacular event. A few days spent in Airlie Beach will give you a front-row seat for the sailing event of the season. Hoping to take to the water yourself? You can get in touch with our Queensland Yacht Charters team to inquire about vessel availability or our stand-by bookings. Our reservations team can help you get that last-minute getaway you’ve been looking for, just in time to celebrate the Clipper Round the World.