US Virgin Islands Takes Global Sailing Stage With Historic St. Thomas Clipper Partnership

Written By: Binoy Mehera

Binoy Mehera

A curious mind driven by a passion for storytelling, I find inspiration in uncovering hidden perspectives, exploring diverse experiences, and shaping ideas into narratives that leave an impact. With three years of experience in journalism and content creation, I have developed a strong instinct for identifying meaningful stories, blending research with creativity, and presenting information in a way that connects with readers. My storytelling journey is guided by a fascination for culture, travel, lifestyle, and the human experiences that define our world. I aim to create narratives that not only inform but also spark curiosity, evoke emotions, and offer audiences a deeper understanding of every story.

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August 27, 2026 11:25 PM

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The U.S. Virgin Islands is preparing to make history by welcoming the world-renowned Clipper 2027-28 Round the World Yacht Race Team to St. Thomas. Not only will the region be able to host one of the most difficult sailing races that the world has to offer, but for the first time in its history, an island team will be able to participate in the race. This race has participated in more than 30 circumnavigations of the world so far.

The announcement will bring the Clipper Race back to the Caribbean for the first time in 14 years, further strengthening the U.S. Virgin Islands’ position as a leading sailing and maritime destination. St. Thomas will gain worldwide visibility as sailors from across the globe compete through one of the most demanding endurance challenges in ocean racing.

Representing the U.S. Virgin Islands, the team yacht will travel approximately 40,000 nautical miles across more than 13 destinations during the 11-month race. The vessel will carry the territory’s identity around the world, with an international crew competing under the USVI flag throughout the global sailing journey.

Established in 1995 by legendary sailor Sir Robin Knox-Johnston, the first person to complete a solo, non-stop sailing journey around the world, the Clipper Race remains the only ocean racing event that trains participants from all backgrounds to become competitive offshore sailors.

Crew members can take part in individual race stages or complete the entire circumnavigation, sailing identical ocean racing yachts designed to test endurance, teamwork, skill and determination. The upcoming event will provide St. Thomas with an unprecedented opportunity to showcase its maritime heritage while joining a prestigious global network of sailing destinations.

Clipper Ventures CEO, William Ward, said of the partnership announcement: “We’re proud to be announcing this debut partnership with the U.S. Virgin Islands and introducing St. Thomas to the Clipper Race route for the first time. As we continue to grow our global event, strong partnerships with destinations that share our ambition, international outlook and commitment to delivering exceptional experiences are fundamental to our success. 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. We look forward to working together with USVI.” 

As a Host Port, St. Thomas will welcome hundreds of sailors and visitors from around the world, creating a unique platform to highlight the island’s rich culture, breathtaking landscapes, and internationally recognised sailing environment.

Alani Henneman, Assistant Commissioner, Marketing and Communications at USVI Department of Tourism said: “The United States Virgin Islands is proud to be a strategic partner of the Clipper Round the World Yacht Race. 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.  

“As one of the world’s most celebrated ocean racing events, the Clipper Race provides an unparalleled platform to showcase the natural beauty, rich culture, world-class harbors, and exceptional visitor experiences of the U.S. Virgin Islands to audiences around the world.”  

She added: “By reaching new and emerging international markets, this collaboration expands the destination’s global visibility, inspires future travel, and supports the continued growth and diversification of the Territory’s tourism industry.” 

The Host Port initiative will be delivered in partnership with the St. Thomas Yacht Club and the Virgin Islands Professional Charter Yacht Association (VIPCA). Their extensive knowledge and strong connection with the territory’s marine sector will play a key role in creating an unforgettable stopover experience for race crews, supporters and visitors.

The Clipper 2027–28 Round the World Yacht Race is scheduled to begin from the United Kingdom in summer 2027 and will conclude nearly 12 months later after covering more than 40,000 nautical miles of challenging ocean racing. Adding to a series of historic milestones, the race will also make its first-ever visit to St. John’s, Canada. Competitors will take on the global route aboard a new fleet of specially designed Clipper RX ocean racing yachts built for endurance and performance.