The Clipper Race Returns to Fremantle

We are excited to announce the Western Australian city of Fremantle will return as a stopover port for the Clipper 2017-18 Race.

The fleet is set to arrive in the Western Australian port city between the 21 and 25 of November, 2017, after the Southern Ocean Leg from Cape Town, and will berth at the Fremantle Sailing Club.

Fremantle Sailing Club

“I have fond memories of our previous visits to Fremantle and I am very pleased it will once again be a stopover destination for the Clipper Race,” says Sir Robin Knox-Johnston.

“Our crew are sure to enjoy the famed Western Australian hospitality and natural beauty of the area, as well as the superb sailing conditions. The journey from Cape Town will be tough, the Southern Ocean always has some of the most testing conditions of the circumnavigation, so Fremantle will be a welcome sight for the fleet.”

Fremantle was the first ever Australian stopover port in the history of the Clipper Race in 2005, and also featured in the 2007-08 race edition. Things have certainly changed since then. The fleet has increased from eight 60-foot vessels to twelve 70-foot ocean racing yachts, while the crew has more than doubled from 310 to 700.

It will be a big moment for our Australian based crew, especially for the seven who call Western Australia home, while for hundreds of others, the City of Fremantle will be the first taste of Australia, before the race leaves for Sydney on Saturday 2 December. Hobart and a yet to be announced port in Eastern Australia will complete the All Australian Leg.

Located at the mouth of the Swan River, approximately 25 minutes from Perth, Fremantle is bounded by stunning beaches and limestone cliffs, and is a major port for Western Australia, for both world-class competition and commercial activity.

Fremantle Mayor Brad Pettitt says: “The City of Fremantle is delighted to welcome this global event back to our port city, which will be a real treat for all local yachting enthusiasts and beach goers this November.”

South Fremantle Beach

Fremantle Sailing Club will be the home away from home for the Clipper Race fleet. It overlooks the warm and pristine waters of the Indian Ocean and offers world class sailing conditions. Its proud history stretches back to 1885, and as well as hosting the Clipper Race, the Fremantle Sailing Club has showcased its superior hosting capabilities through events such as the Biennial Wonderful Indonesia Fremantle to Bali Race and Rally and Perth 2011 ISAF World Sailing Championships.

“As Commodore, it’s a great privilege to welcome the Clipper fleet back to Fremantle Sailing Club this November,” says Bill Burbidge OAM, Commodore, Fremantle Sailing Club.

“Many of us remember fondly the last time the Clipper Race visited Fremantle and we look forward to hosting crews, officials and spectators from all walks of life at our famous yachting venue on the West coast.”

Fremantle's famous resident, the Quokka.

If you too would like to visit Fremantle as a Clipper Race crew member then there are still limited places available for the 2017-18 edition of the race, which will begin in Liverpool on Sunday 20 August. If you think you have what it takes to take part in the world’s biggest ocean race, then apply here.

If you would like more information, there are still places available to attend the upcoming Clipper Round the World Yacht Race Presentation in Perth. Hosted by 2013-14 crew member Helen Cook, the evening will detail the selection process and training required to be a member of Clipper Race Crew, as well as outlining what it takes to take on the race of your life. For more information, click here.