The Australian Coast-to-Coast Leg offers some of the most diverse conditions of the entire Clipper Race circumnavigation.

After soaking up the Western Australian sunshine, it’s only a matter of days before teams round the southwestern tip of Australia, Cape Leeuwin, heading into the higher southern latitudes and facing its cold temperatures and tough conditions. Huge rolling swells, strong winds and fast, downwind sailing become a feature as the fleet races around the base of Tasmania, tracking the furthest south of the entire circumnavigation.

Once clear of Tasmania, teams are not out of the woods. Ocean swells, changeable breezes and strong currents along the eastern coast of Australia keep teams on their toes as they sail towards the tropical north of the country. This section will be highly tactical and sweaty, with plenty of sail changes making for action-packed watches.

Sailing aside, a highlight of Leg 4 is spending Christmas and seeing in the New Year at sea. Far from home, with crew mates as their family, these unique Christmases may be different from the norm but are certainly ones for the memory book. Christmas carolling, presents, full roast dinners cooked in the galley, messages from home and even visits from Santa Claus! Race Crew pull out all the stops for the festivities.

For those looking to complete a Clipper Race leg, this particular one can be a great option for crew who want to maximise paid time off from work, as the racing takes place during the festive season.