Steamship Shieldhall proudly led the Clipper Round the World Yacht Race fleet into Portsmouth Harbour on Saturday as the yachts completed their epic 47,000-mile circumnavigation of the globe after almost 11 months at sea.
Having met the returning yachts off the Solent Forts, Shieldhall was given the honour of leading the spectacular Parade of Sail into Portsmouth Harbour, accompanied by two tugboats creating dramatic water displays. Guests on board enjoyed a unique front-row view of the emotional homecoming as crews crossed the finish line of one of the world’s toughest endurance challenges.
As one of Britain’s finest operational heritage steamships, Shieldhall was invited to lead the returning Clipper fleet in recognition of her status as a flagship of Britain’s maritime heritage.
The arrival was made even more memorable by escorting tugboats creating impressive water displays as the fleet entered Portsmouth Harbour.
Shieldhall Chairman Martin Phipps said: “Huge congratulations to every skipper and crew member. Completing a race of this scale is an extraordinary achievement requiring determination, teamwork and resilience over almost a year at sea. Everyone on board Shieldhall was honoured to play a small part in welcoming the fleet home and celebrating this remarkable accomplishment.”
After the emotional Clipper homecoming, guests remained on board to enjoy front-row views of the spectacular SailGP racing off Portsmouth before Shieldhall returned to Southampton later that evening.
Shieldhall’s next public sailings take place over the weekend of 7–9 August, including the sold-out Cowes Fireworks cruise, a Steam to the Solent sailing featuring the departure of four cruise ships, and a Portsmouth Harbour cruise with limited remaining availability.
Visitors can explore Shieldhall’s magnificent engine room while her original steam engines are in operation, visit the traditional bridge, meet the volunteer crew and enjoy live commentary throughout the cruise. Refreshments, including hot meals, drinks and snacks, are available on board.
Details of all sailings and tickets are available at www.ss-shieldhall.co.uk or from the Ticket Manager on 023 8155 0242 or tickets@ss-shieldhall.co.uk.
