Heading for Halifax

Hurricane Fabian still hampering progress of Clipper Round the World Race

The eight international Clipper yachts have sailed from the Intrepid Sea-Air-Space Museum in New York, heading for Halifax.

The predicted track of Hurricane Fabian continues to move to the east now, making the path to Halifax a safe option for the fleet. Should the situation change, the crews will of course seek shelter en route.

The fleet's redeployment to Halifax will be a straightforward passage; the yachts are not racing and their aim is to make best possible passage time. It is hoped that teams will arrive on Sunday, 7 September. Once in Halifax, they will be hosted by the Royal Nova Scotia Yacht Squadron.

The aim of this pit stop is to refuel and take on essential provisions, before the fleet set off to start Race 15 of the Clipper 2002 Series to Jersey in the Channel Islands.

The departure from Halifax will be dependent on Hurricane Fabian taking its predicted path, making it safe for the crews to set sail.

It is some 2,600 miles from Halifax to Jersey and the current forecast shows a westerly airstream next week in the Atlantic which should push the yachts on. We therefore hope to see the boats arrive in Jersey on either 22nd or 23rd September 2003.