Portsmouth, Gunwharf Quays
Portsmouth, United Kingdom
- Arrival
- 28 August 2025
- Start
- 31 August
- Editions
- 3
Be Part of the Celebrations
Witness the start of the Clipper 2025-26 Round the World Yacht Race at Gunwharf Quays, Portsmouth. This is your chance to see the world's largest matched fleet of ten 70ft ocean racing yachts before it embarks on an epic 40,000 nautical mile race across six continents.
When the fleet departs from Gunwharf Quays this August, our event will be celebrating two milestones – the 25th anniversary of the first departure from the city of Portsmouth (for The Times 2000 Clipper Race) and 30 years of training people to cross oceans and sail around the world.
Experience
Where to watch
31 August 2025
Whether you're on shore or on the water, watching the fleet depart on its 40,000nm race around the world will be an unforgettable experience.
For an up-close and exhilarating view of the Clipper 2025-26 Race Start, recreational boat owners are invited to watch from the water. Join a flotilla of fellow enthusiasts and witness the racing fleet cross the start line from the best seat in the house—your own boat.
Watching from the water offers a unique vantage point, allowing you to be part of the action and celebrate this incredible race.
Family Friendly
Future Crew Zone
29-31 August 2025
The Future Crew Zone offers fun for all ages in a vibrant, family-friendly atmosphere. Get involved in themed activities including face painting, design your own Clipper 70 competition and more.
Tour a Clipper Ocean Racing Yacht
29-30 August 2025
Don't miss a tour of our magnificent ocean racing fleet, above and below deck. Feed your curiosity about on board living conditions, technology and life at a 40º angle in extreme weather conditions.
The tours are free to attend, however booking is required to ensure we can host everyone.
Entertainment
Live Music
29-31 August 2025
We'll be celebrating the very best emerging talent from Portsmouth and across the region. Come down and show your support for amazing emerging artists.
Experience
CLIPPER 68 MOTOR TOURS
29-30 August 2025
Learn more about life on board one of these unique yachts as you motor on the Solent. Our Clipper 68s have sailed around the world four times and are the yachts that our Clipper 2025-26 Race crew have trained on, ready to cross the world's oceans. Have the opportunity to chat with the Skipper, First and Second Mates about their sailing experiences.
Booking options coming soon.
ASPEX PORTSMOUTH
Discovery Talk
30 August 2025 | 1000
Have you got what it takes to race across the world's oceans?
The Clipper Round the World Yacht Race is on the lookout for its next batch of adventurers - with no previous experience required. Think it's for you? Come along to a discovery talk, designed to inspire those eager to test their limits.