03 July 2026
Clipper Race stopover set to bring excitement to Oban
The Clipper Race will return to Oban for another packed stopover, following on from a successful visit in 2024
Oban is preparing to welcome the Clipper Round the World Yacht Race back for a second stopover, with the fleet arriving back to Scotland's west coast for an action packed stopover between 10 and 19 July. The return of the race promises a packed programme of events celebrating sailing, the sea and the communities that make Scotland's coastline so special.
Team Scotland making a mark
The 2025-26 edition of the Clipper Race features the first-ever fully branded Team Scotland entry, backed by sponsors including Brand Scotland and Oban Distillery. The campaign was launched to showcase Scotland on a global stage, promoting the country's culture, tourism, trade and innovation through a demanding endurance challenge.
Led by skipper Heather Thomas and first mate Millie Apperley, Team Scotland has enjoyed a strong race and currently sits seventh in the overall standings heading into the final stages of the circumnavigation. Their success has helped shine a spotlight on Scotland's rich sailing heritage and the opportunities our waters provide for sailors of all backgrounds.
The team's arrival in Oban will be a special moment, bringing Scotland's yacht home to the west coast before the fleet departs for its final ocean racing challenges.
Scottish sailors throughout the fleet
While Team Scotland provides a focal point for supporters, Scottish sailors are represented across the wider Clipper Race fleet. As with every edition of the race, competitors from a wide range of backgrounds and nationalities have come together to tackle more than 40,000 nautical miles of ocean racing around the world.
Among those crews are sailors with strong Scottish connections, demonstrating the depth and diversity of Scotland's sailing community. Whether racing aboard Team Scotland or competing on other yachts throughout the fleet, their participation reflects the adventurous spirit that continues to thrive in clubs, training centres and marinas across the country.
A festival of sailing on the west coast
The stopover programme includes opportunities to welcome the fleet, tour a Clipper 70 yacht, visit the race fan zone, enjoy harbour-side events and witness a spectacular parade of sail from Oban Bay as the yachts make their way round to Dunstaffnage, where the final Sprint leg to Portsmouth will commence.
As part of the wider celebrations, RYA Scotland is proud to be supporting Oban Sailing Club's ‘Oban On The Water’ event on 11 July, giving people the chance to try a variety of water-based activities including sailing taster sessions.
Whether you're completely new to being on the water or looking to experience a different activity, this is a fantastic opportunity to get involved and enjoy everything Oban's stunning coastal environment has to offer.
Visit the Oban Sailing Club website to sign up for a spot in either the morning (10:30-12:00) or afternoon (12:45-14:45).
Learn the ropes in Scotland
Inspired by Team Scotland, the Clipper Race crews and the spectacular on display?
Whether you're looking for beginner sessions, youth training, club racing or opportunities to get back on the water, there are welcoming sailing venues across the country ready to help you take the next step.