The Clipper Round the World Yacht Race 2023-2024 reached its conclusion with jubilant crowds welcoming the sailors to the finale at Gunwharf Quays on Saturday, July 27. The sailors, many of which had no sailing experience prior to this, had set off from Portsmouth in September 2023 undertaking 14 individual races over 40,000 nautical miles.
It was an emotional moment many people as they welcomed home friends and family from their once-in-a-lifetime experience. People from around the world participated in the race but the team that finished third overall, Zhuhai, were led by professional sailor James Finney from Southampton, and had Josephine Groves, from Widley, in their crew.
Ha Long Bay, Viet Nam! won the race overall but the celebration were for each and every participant that had accomplished the incredible feet.
Here are pictures of the incredible day, from viewers watching the procession in Southsea, to the heart of the celebrations in Gunwharf:
17. Clipper Round the World Yacht Race
All the crew members gather on the stage after finally finishing the mammoth race.Picture: Keith Woodland (270721-246) Photo: Keith Woodland
18. Clipper Round the World Yacht Race
It was a beautiful scene as the yachts returned to Portsmouth where they set off from in September 2023.Picture: Chris Moorhouse (270724-30) Photo: Chris Moorhouse
19. Clipper Round the World Yacht Race
The procession came into Portsmouth together after the race was shortened, finishing yesterday due to weather conditions.Picture: Chris Moorhouse (270724-28) Photo: Chris Moorhouse
20. Clipper Round the World Yacht Race
Team Ha Long Bay, Viet Nam! lift the title after finishing first overall.Picture: Keith Woodland (270721-242) Photo: Keith Woodland