Clipper Race sets sail back to paradise in the Whitsundays
by Coral Sea Marina Resort 24 Nov 2025 22:08 PST
Clipper Race 2019-2020 Parade of Sails © Riptide Creative
The world's most extraordinary ocean adventure is on its way back to paradise. The Clipper Round the World Yacht Race fleet is set to return to Airlie Beach, Queensland, this January as part of Leg 4 — the Australian Coast-to-Coast.
Once again, Coral Sea Marina will roll out the red carpet as the official Host Port, welcoming the fleet, race crew, family, friends, and supporters after their voyage from Fremantle.
This marks the fifth time the Clipper Race has chosen Coral Sea Marina, putting the Whitsundays alongside world-class sailing destinations like Cape Town, Seattle, and Qingdao.
"The fact that Airlie Beach continues to be selected as a Host Port is a testament to the world-class facilities here at the marina and cements the Whitsundays as Australia's premier sailing destination," said Joscelyn O'Keefe, Head of Marketing & Business Development at Coral Sea Marina.
A Race Like No Other
The Clipper Race is a global challenge unlike any other — bringing together people from all walks of life, many with no prior sailing experience, to take on the adventure of a lifetime. Crews undergo rigorous training before braving extreme conditions in a record-breaking circumnavigation from Portsmouth, UK.
A Boost for the Whitsundays
Arriving mid-January, the fleet will spend over a week in the Whitsundays, repairing and provisioning vessels, and — importantly — enjoying all the region has to offer. Crew and supporters are expected to dive into local tours, experiences, dining, and accommodation, injecting a significant economic boost into the region.
"The Airlie Beach stopover is always a highlight for our crew and supporters," said Georgina Best, Head of Partnerships, Clipper Ventures. "It's a chance to experience the beauty of the Whitsundays and the incredible hospitality of the community."
The stopover will also bring a packed program of community events, including the much-loved Open Boat Days, where locals and visitors step aboard the 70ft ocean racing yachts for a rare glimpse of life at sea.
A World Stage for Sailing
With the Whitsundays set to host sailing events at the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games, the Clipper Race's return shines an international spotlight on the region's capacity to host world-class sailing events.
The Clipper Round the World Yacht Race shines a global spotlight on The Whitsundays, showcasing our region as one of the world's premier sailing destinations. As the confirmed host of sailing for the Brisbane 2032 Olympic Games, it's a fantastic opportunity to show how incredible our region is for visitors, for local businesses and for our community." explains Tim Booth, CEO, Tourism Whitsundays.
The countdown is on — paradise awaits the Clipper Race fleet once again.
Ms O'Keefe said, "The energy that this race brings to our marina and the town is infectious. On behalf of the Whitsunday community, we welcome the race fleet, the race team and all the crews back to paradise!"