The 12-strong Clipper Race fleet has begun the 3^rd stage of its 14-race global series in an energetic start from Cape Town in the 4845 nautical mile Southern Ocean crossing to Western Australia, named by host port Albany the ‘Wardan Whip’ - inspired by the traditional Noongar language which means ‘ocean of southern winds’.

The fleet paraded out into Table Bay following a colourful departure ceremony from the V&A Waterfront. There was a stiff 20 knots of breeze from the south out on the start line with stronger gusts over 35 knots.

Da Nang-Viet Nam team’s racing yacht

Heading home is Australian Wendy Tuck, Skipper of Da Nang – Viet Nam: “Heavy downwind sailing is going to be a big challenge on this race and knowing when to make the call to drop the spinnaker and just go with white sails. We are improving as we go along so we want to keep that momentum going. I’ve got a good feeling. I’m really looking forward to arriving into Australia. I haven’t actually been to Western Australia before but I can’t wait to get home.”

The estimated arrival window into Albany is between 22 and 26 November.

(Source: clipperroundtheworld.com)