Liverpool will provide the start and finish point of the biggest round-the-world ocean race this summer.
The famous Clipper Round the World Yacht Race will set sail from the city’s Albert Dock on August 20 and return approximately 11 months later in 2018.
This year’s race will consist of 12 large 70-foot racing yachts, sailed by 700 amateur crew, with over 40 nationalities will be represented from the outset.
Its global route will include stopovers in South America, Cape Town, Sydney, China, Panama, New York and Londonderry in Northern Ireland.
Clipper Race founder Sir Robin Knox-Johnston, who became the first person to sail solo non-stop around the world in 1968/69, said: “We are thrilled to announce that the Clipper Race is returning to the historic city of Liverpool.
“I fondly remember the warm reception we received when Liverpool last hosted the Clipper Race [in 2007] and am looking forward to returning to Albert Dock again this August.
“The Clipper Race has grown enormously in number of participants, yacht entries, economic influence and media value since it was last hosted by Liverpool a decade ago.
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The Clipper Fleet 2015.
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“We are looking forward to putting on an even bigger show in the city this time, which will not just have significant local economic impact, but will also put a maritime spotlight on the city all around the world.”
Mayor of Liverpool Joe Anderson added: “It is a huge coup for Liverpool to once again play host to the start and finish of this prestigious race.
“This city embraces and thrives on maritime spectacles – our affinity with the River is always much-celebrated and being the start and finish partner of the Clipper 2017-18 Race is sure to attract thousands to our world-famous waterfront.”
“Staging an event of this calibre puts the city once again on an international platform – and after welcoming this event four times before, it really feels like we are the home of the Clipper Race.
“The impact on the local economy as a result of this race will of course be huge.
“But the pride it will engender in the people of Liverpool is priceless as the international spotlight shines on the city once again.
“We look forward to welcoming the fleet, its crew and supporters.”