The world’s most extraordinary ocean adventure is on its way back to paradise, with the Clipper Round the World Yacht Race fleet set to return to Airlie Beach this January as part of Leg 4, the Australian Coast-to-Coast.
Coral Sea Marina will once again roll out the red carpet as the official Host Port, welcoming the fleet, race crew, family, friends and supporters after their journey from Fremantle. This will be the fifth time the marina has hosted the race, placing the Whitsundays alongside global sailing destinations such as Cape Town, Seattle and Qingdao.
“The fact that Airlie Beach continues to be selected as a Host Port is a testament to our world-class facilities and cements the Whitsundays as Australia’s premier sailing destination,” said Joscelyn O’Keefe, Head of Marketing & Business Development at Coral Sea Marina.
The Clipper Race is a unique global challenge that brings together people from all walks of life, many with no previous sailing experience, who undergo extensive training before tackling a record-breaking circumnavigation from Portsmouth, UK.
Arriving mid-January, the fleet will spend more than a week in the Whitsundays, repairing and provisioning vessels while also enjoying the region’s many attractions. Crew and supporters are expected to dive into local tours, dining, experiences and accommodation, delivering a welcome economic boost.
“The Airlie Beach stopover is always a highlight for our crew and supporters,” said Georgina Best, Head of Partnerships at Clipper Ventures.
“It’s a chance to experience the beauty of the Whitsundays and the incredible hospitality of the community.”
A packed program of events will accompany the visit, including the popular Open Boat Days, where locals and visitors can step aboard the 70ft ocean racing yachts for a rare behind-the-scenes look at life at sea.
With the Whitsundays set to host sailing events for the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games, the return of the Clipper Race further highlights the region’s capability to host world-class sailing competitions.
“The Clipper Race shines an international spotlight on the Whitsundays and showcases our region as one of the world’s premier sailing destinations,” said Tim Booth, CEO of Tourism Whitsundays.
The countdown is on as the Whitsundays prepares to welcome the race fleet back to paradise.
Photo supplied
Publishers Indemnity. Any individual or entity that places advertising, supplies copy material, or submits editorial content to Core Life Publishing agrees and undertakes to ensure that all such material:- Does not infringe upon any copyright, trademark, or other intellectual property rights;- Is free from any content that could be considered defamatory, libelous, or slanderous;- Does not infringe upon any rights related to privacy or breach of confidence;- Contains no obscene, indecent, or otherwise unlawful material;- Complies fully with the Trade Practices Act and all other applicable laws, regulations, or statutes.Furthermore, by submitting or placing such material, these individuals or entities agree to indemnify and hold harmless the publisher, Core Publishing and Events Pty Ltd, and/or its agents from and against any and all investigations, claims, demands, liabilities, damages, costs, or judgments arising out of or in connection with the material provided. All material is believed to be accurate at the time of printing and remains the copyright of Core Publishing and Events Pty Ltd.
© 2026 Mackay and Whitsunday Life Pty Ltd.
.jpeg)
