The Clipper Race comes to Scotland

The Clipper Race (one of the world's toughest sailing races) is making waves towards Scotland for the first time ever, as part of its Atlantic Homecoming leg. The race left Washington DC, in the United States and is on route to Oban.

The race involves eleven 70ft racing yachts which are competing in the Clipper Round the World Yacht Race, considered one of the world's toughest and most rewarding endurance challenges.

The challenge will follow in the footsteps of some of the greatest Scottish sailing pioneers, across the North Atlantic. Departing from Washington DC, the penultimate Atlantic Homecoming Leg of the thrilling round the world adventure, marks a historic moment for the Clipper Race as it stops in Scotland for the first time in its 27-year history from 12 to 21 July 2024. 

Oban. Oban’s name derives from the Gaelic language and means ‘little bay’. Credit: VisitScotland

Setting sail to boost the local economy

To celebrate, the race’s first ever Scottish hosts have revealed that the crews will be welcomed with an exclusive programme of unique events set to make the Scotland stopover a global highlight for the adventurers on the record-breaking 40,000 nautical mile challenge.

The Clipper Race has boosted economies of previous Host Ports around the world by millions of pounds. It's arrival in the town of Oban, reflects the country’s world-class sailing and boating offering which is estimated to contribute £84 million to the Scottish economy annually.

Often referred to as the Gateway to the Isles or Seafood Capital of Scotland, Oban will welcome over 200 international Clipper Race crew aged 18 to 70+ from across the world and walks of life, to experience Scotland - some for the first time. 

The programme of events and activities will showcase some of the best of Scottish food, drink, sport and culture. From playing shinty and speaking Gaelic, to discovering the finest Scottish food and drink, a tour of Oban Distillery, experiencing ceilidh dancing and traditional music and more, the Clipper Race crew are sure to experience Scotland during their stop-over.