U.S. Virgin Islands Joins the Clipper Round the World Yacht Race
The U.S. Virgin Islands will make sailing history by serving as both a Host Port and Team Partner for the Clipper 2027-28 Round the World Yacht Race. This marks the first time in the event’s 30-year history that the territory will welcome the international sailing competition and have a team representing the islands. The partnership also brings the Clipper race back to the Caribbean for the first time in 14 years, putting St. Thomas and its celebrated sailing waters in the international spotlight.
Around the World With USVI
The U.S. Virgin Islands team yacht will carry the territory’s flag more than 40,000 nautical miles, visiting 13-plus destinations over approximately 11 months during the race, which departs the United Kingdom in summer 2027 and ends there almost a year later. An international crew will race aboard the USVI entry as part of a fleet of identical, specially designed Clipper RX ocean-racing yachts.
Founded in 1995 by sailing legend Sir Robin Knox-Johnston, the first person to sail solo and nonstop around the world, the Clipper race takes a distinctive approach to ocean racing. Participants don’t need previous sailing experience, because crew members receive intensive training before competing in the race or any of its legs.
St. Thomas Welcomes Clipper Race
When the fleet reaches St. Thomas, hundreds of international sailors and visitors will come ashore, giving thCle U.S. Virgin Islands an opportunity to share its beaches, culture, hospitality and longstanding maritime traditions with a worldwide audience.
“St. Thomas is a natural fit, combining outstanding sailing waters with a rich cultural heritage and a warm welcome that our race crew will remember long after they depart,” said William Ward, CEO of Clipper Ventures.
The St. Thomas Yacht Club and Virgin Islands Professional Charter Yacht Association will partner up for a St. Thomas Host Port Program, drawing on their knowledge of the territory’s marine industry to welcome competitors and visitors.
For the U.S. Virgin Islands, the partnership reaches well beyond the finish line. It provides an international platform to introduce the destination to new audiences and inspire future travel.
“The U.S. Virgin Islands is proud to be a strategic partner of the Clipper Round the World Yacht Race,” said Alani Henneman, assistant commissioner for Marketing and Communications at the USVI Department of Tourism. “This prestigious partnership reinforces the territory’s commitment to elevating its global tourism profile, while strengthening its position as a premier Caribbean sailing and maritime destination.”
With a USVI team circling the globe and the fleet making its historic St. Thomas stop, the Clipper 2027-28 race will give the islands plenty to cheer about, both at home and around the world.
Get updates about the 2027-28 race on Clipper’s website and Facebook page.
