Airlie Beach and Coral Sea Marina once again proved their credentials as a world-class sailing destination, hosting a dynamic and highly successful stopover of the Clipper Round the World Yacht Race amid challenging tropical conditions and vibrant onshore celebrations.
The international fleet arrived in Airlie Beach during a tropical low that later developed into Tropical Cyclone Koji, creating a dramatic backdrop as yachts made landfall in wet and wild conditions. Crews were welcomed by race officials and loyal supporters, many after spending up to 21 days at sea over the Christmas and New Year period.
Kate Preston, CEO Coral Sea Marina explains “With the Whitsundays set to host sailing events for the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games, the Clipper Race’s return continues to shine an international spotlight on the region’s ability to deliver world-class sailing experiences.”
As Cyclone Koji passed through the region, the majority of the fleet was safely berthed in port. After a stormy weekend, conditions eased and sunshine returned providing a warm welcome for the final four yachts to arrive at Coral Sea Marina.
With the fleet secured, the Airlie Beach stopover program commenced, offering sailors the opportunity to experience the Whitsundays both on and off the water. Many crew members took advantage of the region’s high-quality accommodation, tours and dining options, and a comprehensive program of events and activations was delivered to immerse the international crews in the Whitsundays lifestyle.
A key highlight was the Leg 4 Prizegiving, held at Coral Sea Marina and attended by 300 race crew, officials and supporters. Despite intermittent rain showers, the relaxed outdoor event celebrated the completion of the All-Australian leg of the race, with food, music and shared sea stories. The event was proudly supported by Whitsunday Regional Council.
Environmental education featured strongly throughout the stopover. Crew members participated in a Seagrass Nursery Talk and Tour hosted by Reef Catchments, gaining insight into local restoration efforts and assisting with nursery maintenance at Coral Sea Marina. Participants then joined Whisper Cruises for a guided tour of the seagrass meadows in Pioneer Bay, with turtle sightings among the highlights.
International sailors were also introduced to Australia’s unique wildlife during a visit to the marina from Whitsundays Wildlife, where experienced rangers showcased native species including reptiles and birds.
Science and conservation initiatives were highlighted during an interactive presentation by the International Seakeepers Society, the official conservation partner of the Clipper Race. The session showcased data collected by the Clipper fleet as part of the global Seabed 2030 project, alongside presentations from Tangaroa Blue and Reef Catchments on conservation projects in the Whitsundays and Great Barrier Reef region.
On the water, the Little Ripper Clipper Cup, hosted by Whitsunday Sailing Club, brought together Clipper Race crew and local sailors for friendly dinghy racing. While light winds limited ideal sailing conditions, the event delivered strong participation and community engagement.
The broader Whitsunday community was invited to connect with the race through public open boat days, offering the chance to tour the Clipper 70 yachts and speak directly with crew members about life on board. A Clipper Discovery Talk, hosted by Deputy Race Director Max Rivers at Whitsunday Sailing Club, provided information on future race opportunities and pathways for aspiring sailors. Kate Preston shares her thoughts on the community engagement with the stopover, “The energy and excitement this race brings to our marina and town is truly infectious, and it was incredibly encouraging to see the local community and visitors to the region making the most of the events on offer throughout the stopover.”
Preparations for Leg 5 to Subic Bay, Philippines, continued throughout the stopover, with crews undertaking maintenance, repairs, provisioning and planning. Fleet departure day saw emotional farewells and a strong sense of anticipation as yachts departed Coral Sea Marina from midday, forming offshore for a Parade of Sails under clearing skies.
This marks the fifth visit of the Clipper Round the World Yacht Race to Airlie Beach and Coral Sea Marina. With platinum-accredited marina facilities, a vibrant coastal town and ideal sailing conditions for tactical racing, the Whitsundays remain perfectly positioned to host iconic international sailing events.
About Coral Sea Marina
Coral Sea Marina is an award-winning 520 wet berth marina located in the heart of the Whitsundays and Great Barrier Reef. As the first 5 Gold Anchor Platinum accredited marina in Queensland, Coral Sea Marina offers premium marina facilities and a range of concierge services for vessels up to 80m.
Coral Sea Marina is part of Coral Sea Marina Resort, a tourist destination that also includes a 77-room waterfront boutique resort, two vibrant marina villages, an inspiring calendar of events and is home to 80% of the region’s on-water tourism products, making Coral Sea Marina Resort the ultimate place to stay, play, explore the Whitsundays.
Media Enquiries: Joscelyn O’Keefe, Coral Sea Marina – 0488 049 807 | Joscelyn@csmr.com.au
