The Clipper Race is returning to Oban, as the Scottish West Coast town has been announced as a Host Port on the 2025-26 edition route. Following a successful first stopover last year, which saw Race Crew embrace the town’s ‘Festival of Sea’ celebrations, the Clipper Race fleet will once again sail into Oban in the summer of 2026. And according to Host Port Partners, Argyll and Bute Council and Bid4Oban, an even bigger festival of culture is planned for the next realm of ocean racers.

Oban will form part of Leg 8: The Atlantic Homecoming, where Race Crew will take on a furious downwind battle from North America towards the Race Finish port of Portsmouth, UK. As one of the last stops on the global route and warm hospitality provided from the town’s locals, – it’s the perfect place for warm up celebrations!