Event Overview

Taster Weekend: Your introduction to sailing a Clipper Race yacht

Built for ocean racing, the yachts used in the Clipper Race have sailed thousands of miles across some of the world’s most challenging waters.

On our Taster Weekend you’ll step on board one of our Clipper 68 yachts, get involved as a member of the crew and experience sailing one of these powerful racing yachts.

Over two days on the Solent, you’ll sail with a professional skipper, first mate and second mate, learning the basics of navigation and seamanship. You’ll get to hoist and trim sails, take the helm and put your skills into practice, all while working together as part of a crew.  It’s a chance to learn new skills, spend time on the water and get a real feel for what life on board is like.

You don’t need any previous sailing experience to join us. Our professional crew will guide you throughout the weekend, helping you build confidence and making sure everyone has the chance to get involved no matter their experience level.

Whether you’ve always dreamed of taking part in the Clipper Race, or you’ve heard stories from a friend or family member who has raced around the world, the Taster Weekend is your chance to see what life on board is really like.

Step on board and get involved – it could be the start of your Clipper Race experience.

Event Dates

23–25 April 2027
07–09 May 2027
16–18 July 2027
20–22 August 2027
10-12 September 2027

Already got ‘on the water’ experience? Why not take it further with our Taster 2.0.

Find out all the information you need on this page or for any enquiries and bookings, please contact us on +44 (0)2393 382848, complete an online enquiry form or email [email protected].

PRICE

£580

PACKAGE HIGHLIGHTS

Start your sailing journey with Clipper.

Two days of sailing on the Solent

Two nights stay aboard the yacht

Learn from a professional crew

Build your sailing skills and confidence

Friday night meal & onboard catering

One nights at your own leisure in Cowes

EVENT HIGHLIGHTS

  • Spend a weekend on the water
  • Work together as part of a crew
  • Meet people who share your sense of adventure
  • No previous sailing experience required

Itinerary

Please note this itinerary is indicative and correct at the time of posting and liable to change at any moment. If you have any questions surrounding the event and listed itinerary do get in touch with a member of the team.

  • 0930 – Arrival at Clipper Training HQ in Gosport
  • Meet your Skipper and fellow crew before heading down to your boat to drop off your kit
  • Boat familiarisation and safety brief before departing for sailing experience 
  • 1630 – Return to Gosport Premier Marina to freshen up
  • 1830 – Enjoy a team meal and the opportunity to get to know your fellow crew mates
  • Overnight on board in Gosport’s Premier Marina 

  • AM Breakfast on board
  • Overview on plan for the day before departing for full day sail on the Solent
  • PM Arrive in Cowes, Isle of Wight where you’ll enjoy an evening at your own leisure
  • Overnight on board in Cowes

  • AM Breakfast on board
  • After breakfast you will enjoy a leisurely sail back to Gosport, arriving around lunch time
  • On arrival back in Gosport, you will assist with a clean down of the boat before departing
  • Depart by 1400pm

What’s Included

This event includes the following items. If you would like further clarity on event inclusions please contact us.

  • On-board berthing and insurance
  • Professional Skipper and First and Second Mates
  • Use of Musto BR2 offshore jacket and salopettes
  • All coded on board safety equipment including lifejacket
  • Shore-based meal + food and soft drinks whilst on board

Who Can Enter

In order to take part in some sailing race events additional training and qualification events may need to be completed. Please make sure you meet the criteria listed within this section or contact the team for further information.

  • Open to all over 18s.
  • Previous sailing experience is not required.
  • This event is open to individuals or groups looking for an unforgettable experience.
  • Book your place in advance to secure your berth.
  • Gain valuable experience or add more miles to your logbook.