Presentation in Hall 15, Stand C 23
With the standardised boats, paying amateurs trained by Clipper sail around the world in stages under an expert skipper (YACHT reported). The new fourth-generation boats represent the 30 years of experience of numerous circumnavigations and the feedback of around 7,000 fellow sailors since the first edition of the race, which was organised by the British high seas icon Robin Knox-Johnston has founded. After all, he was the first person to sail non-stop and solo around the world. The new fleet of twelve boats is to be used for the next race, which will take the Clipper Round the World Race into its fourth decade. The new 72-foot boat, the Clipper RX, is characterised by a very seaworthy design with outstanding safety features, as well as strong performance both upwind and downwind, according to the organiser.
Two cockpits, two dodgers, two companionways
The two dodgers in front of the helm and work cockpit are striking and are intended to provide the best possible protection for the watch. Below them are two companionways, which are also intended to improve safety by eliminating the need to walk long distances on deck. This contrasts with another feature. The foredeck is very wide due to the voluminous bow section, even in the forestay area. This is intended to make changing headsails easier; the Clipper boats are equipped with staysail riders on the luff and do not have furling systems. Below deck, the boat is packed with berths. Around ten bunks per side, which can be adjusted to the heel, are planned.
Material from England, built in China, used worldwide
The two rudders are attached to the mirror and can be folded up. This makes them easier to repair and allows them to fold upwards in the event of UFO contact. Two hydrogen generators are also attached to the stern. The Clipper boats are built in China from foam sandwich with vinyl ester resin in vacuum injection. The basic concept was further developed into a final design by Fish Marine Design-Composites (MDC) based in Hampshire, with the hull lines coming from British designer Nigel Irens. He says: "It is very unusual to be able to design a boat based on so much information and feedback."
William Ward, co-founder and CEO of Clipper Ventures: "I am very proud of what we have achieved over the last 30 years and how we have steadily moved the company forward despite some major challenges, from economic crises to the global pandemic. Today, we organise the world's leading event of its kind, attracting international participants looking for a life-changing adventure. The experience we have gained is exceptional and has been channelled into this significant investment in a new fleet that will see us through our fourth decade. We have built a strong partnership with Qingdao in China over the last 20 years, where we are building our latest fleet to the highest quality standards at globally competitive prices."
40,000 nautical miles, 8 stages, 15th edition planned
The Race 2025/26 over 40,000 nautical miles, divided into eight stages, which started in Portsmouth/England in August last year. It is already the 14th edition of the format. The fleet is expected to be deployed for the 15th edition, which is currently scheduled to start in late summer 2027.
Technical data Clipper RX
- Total length 22 m
- Width 5.75 m
- Draught 3.2 m
- Mast height 30.5 m
- Weight 40 tonnes
