Next stop Seattle: City hosts exciting programme of events for its race debut

The countdown has begun in Seattle which will make its debut as a Host Port to the Clipper Race for the first time in its 19 year history this week.

While the crew contend with the final few miles to the finish line of the 5,400 nautical mile Seattle Pacific Challenge Race across the North Pacific Ocean, the rewards will be great upon arrival into Seattle, as excitement in the city builds ahead of welcoming the teams. Very few have sailed in this part of the world and to celebrate the achievement and toast the teams’ successes, the city aims to make it a very memorable stopover for all.

From featuring in the iconic Seattle Urban Trek to making a guest appearance at the home stadium of Seattle Baseball team, the Mariners, Safeco Field, there are plenty of activities guaranteed to get crew and visitors alike into the spirit of on-the-water adventure.

When the Race Village opens, visitors will be able to get up close to the Clipper Race yachts to discover what life is like on board in one of the free open boat tours, running from Friday 22 to Tuesday 26 April. They will also be able to hear about the Clipper Race experience directly from the people who have taken part during Q&A sessions with our adventurous crew and race Skippers.

On Saturday 23 April the race is joining the Seattle Urban Trek for treasure hunting, running, problem solving and team work on the 7 mile course of check-points hosting mystery cognitive or physical challenges across the attractions of Seattle, all in aid of charity.

And there’s more…Let’s play ball!

On Tuesday 26 April watch Visit Seattle Skipper Huw Fernie will make a guest appearance at Safeco Field to make the opening pitch of the game at the home of the Mariners baseball team in its game against the Houston Astros.

During the fleet’s visit, Seattle has organised a variety of events for the crew to get a taste of the Emerald City, from arts and entertainment, top attractions, sports and food and drink with a host bar every night of the week.

On departure day, Thursday 28 April, the entertainment gets underway at 1400 with the official departure ceremony and crews taking to their yachts in a spectacular ceremony. Come and cheer the crews on the next stage of their adventure where the fleet will perform a Parade of Sail in front of the boardwalk with the backdrop of the iconic Seattle skyline in the Puget Sound between 1500 and 1630.

The race will officially Le Mans start at 1200 local time on Friday 29 April near Tattoosh Island.

Details for all events in Seattle can be found here.

The fleet is expected to arrive at Bell Harbor Marina, Seattle between 14-19 April.

For the most up to date ETA’s, click here.