Clipper Round the World Yacht Race to arrive in Oban!

For the first time in its 27-year history, the Clipper Round the World Yacht Race will be making a stop in Scotland when it sails to Oban in July 2024.

The Clipper Race is renowned as one of the toughest endurance challenges on the planet, welcoming adventurers from all walks of life to take on the exceptional challenge of racing across the world’s oceans on board a 70ft yacht.  This unique event sees teams battle extreme conditions on its eleven-month circumnavigation. The Clipper 2023-24 Race sees nine Scottish crew taking part over the eight legs of the sailing event.

Clipper Race crew will experience the breathtaking beauty of this West Coast town and a warm Highland welcome when they arrive on 12 July 2024 – the penultimate stop on the 40,000nm race around the world.

With no prior sailing experience necessary, Race Crew choose to take on the full round the world challenge or pick one or multiple race legs. Before setting sail, they take on an intensive and compulsory four-stage training programme before going on to tackle some of the most challenging conditions that Mother Nature can serve up, from the freezing temperatures and 40-foot waves of the North Pacific to the blistering heat and flat calms of the tropics.

Berthing at North Pier Pontoons in Oban, Race Crew will get a chance to take in the stunning scenery, rich history, warm hospitality, and diverse attractions on offer in this Scottish Gem, before heading off on the final race of this edition.

Clipper have been able to bring this event to Oban with the dedicated support and partnership working between BID4Oban Ltd (Oban Business Improvement District), Love Oban and Argyll and Bute Council.  Councilor Robin Currie, Leader of Argyll and Bute Council said “We are really excited to support this international event along with BID4Oban Ltd and look forward to welcoming the many crews, teams, sightseers and family members who follow this amazing race.  Given that, this race attracts an international following it is sure to put Oban at the forefront of destination cruise sailing in Scotland and provide a welcome boost to the local economy.”

Andrew Spence, Chief Executive of Bid4Oban, said “Oban is a fantastic and welcoming venue for the Clipper Round the World Race Yacht Race. Located in the heart of the magnificent West Coast of Scotland, it boasts superb sailing waters and is renowned for its spectacular coastal scenery and traditional Scottish Highland hospitality. Steeped in history dating back centuries, Oban is a true showcase of a traditional highland coastal town.”

Laura Ayres, Managing Director at Clipper Ventures, added “As our first ever stop in Scotland, we know Oban locals will put on a huge Highlands welcome for our crew. The Clipper Race brings large numbers of international visitors to its Host Ports and their surrounding areas. It is our hope that this new partnership with Oban will bring a substantial economic impact to the local community.

“Oban is not only an incredible sailing destination but also has a rich history of adventure – the perfect match for our intrepid crew. The area’s great food and drink scene will also be welcomed after a tough Atlantic crossing. The full stopover programme will showcase everything Oban has to offer and shine the spotlight on the town and surrounding area.”

By the time teams arrive in Oban they will have sailed almost 40,000nm and crossed six oceans. The last stop before the emotional homecoming, the arrival into Oban will mark the end of the North Atlantic crossing, allowing the crew a few days to gather their thoughts and strength before they embark on the short but intense race back to the finish line in Portsmouth.

The Clipper Race fleet will arrive in Oban from 12 July, and depart for the final race of the circumnavigation on 21 July, which will see the eleven yachts return to Portsmouth, UK for Race Finish celebrations.