Punta del Este, Uruguay, announced as host port for Clipper Round the World Yacht Race
by Clipper Race 17 Jun 15:53 PDT
Clipper 2023-24 Race fleet berthed in Punta del Este © Clipper Race
The Clipper Round the World Yacht Race is set to return to Punta del Este, as the Uruguayan city is officially announced as a Host Port for the Clipper 2025-26 Race.
Partnering once again with the prestigious Yacht Club Punta del Este (YCPE), this marks the fourth time the city will host the race and its international fleet.
The Clipper Race is the only event of its type that opens up the world of ocean racing to everyday people from all over the world, and, without the need for any previous sailing experience, trains them up to take on one, all, or any combination of the eight legs that form the 40,000 nautical mile long circumnavigation route.
The fleet will have raced over 6,000 nautical miles (starting from Portsmouth, UK) and across the Atlantic in the Atlantic Trade Winds Leg, to reach Punta del Este. Known for its shifting conditions from heavy storms and squalls to the sweltering heat of the Doldrums, this first leg of the circumnavigation is both tactical and physically demanding, making the fleet's arrival in Punta del Este all the more rewarding.
"We are thrilled to once again welcome the Clipper Race to Punta del Este," said Juan Etcheverrito, Commodore of YCPE. "How amazed we are to host the Clipper Race once again; this will be our fourth time, and the excitement doesn't get worn out. We are looking forward to showing the new Clipper Race crew that all they may have heard about the YCPE's unique way of hosting doesn't fully measure up to the real experience. We look forward to seeing everyone in October for a memorable stopover!"
Punta del Este has become a favourite among Race Crew, known not only for its stunning location and excellent infrastructure but also for its unmatched hospitality. Each yacht is assigned a Yacht Club member to assist with local tips and support, creating strong bonds between visiting sailors and the local sailing community.
As part of the stopover celebrations, visitors can look forward to a packed schedule of cultural events supported by national and local authorities, including performances by local artists and traditional Uruguayan hospitality. Whether enjoying an asado, exploring nearby islands, or taking in the region's breathtaking coastal landscapes from Casapueblo to the iconic La Barra bridge, Punta del Este offers Race Crew and visitors an unforgettable experience.
For Yacht Club Punta del Este, the partnership not only promotes the city to a global audience but also reinforces the Club's standing as a leader in international sailing. "It has inspired our sailors, our members, and the wider community," said Commodore Etcheverrito. "With every edition, we continue to grow both as a host and as an institution. Being part of a race of this scale places our burgee and Uruguay's flag on the global sailing map."
In alignment with its broader goals, the Club is also expanding accessibility in sailing through the acquisition of SV14 boats for sailors with disabilities opening up the sport to a wider community ahead of the 2025 stopover.
With its rich sailing heritage, strong community spirit, and warm South American welcome, Punta del Este is ready to once again be the perfect gateway to the Clipper Race's first ocean crossing.