Clipper Race to return to the River Mersey

The Clipper Round the World yacht race is returning to the River Mersey for the fourth time.

The 12, 70ft yachts which take part in the prestigious sailing event will set off from the Albert Dock on August 20 on an 11-month ocean-going odyssey covering 40,000 nautical miles, returning to the city in the summer of 2018.

Sir Robin Knox-Johnston, the first person to sail solo non-stop around the world and founder of the Clipper Race, said: “We're thrilled to announce the race is returning to the historic city of Liverpool.

"I fondly remember the warm reception we received when Liverpool last hosted the Clipper Race 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 and we're 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.”

Liverpool has previously hosted the Clipper Race in 2002-3, 2005-6 and 2007-8, making the city the event’s most frequented start and finish port ever.

Meanwhile 2018 marks 10 years since the city was European Capital of Culture, and a host of major events are planned for the year.