During the Clipper Round the World Yacht Race Qingdao Stopover, from 4–12 March 2026, the Team Qingdao fundraising crew set out with a simple idea: to turn the energy of the global sailing community into meaningful support for children through UNICEF.

Over the course of the stopover, we organised a series of cultural experiences and community events that invited sailors, families, and supporters to discover the culture of Qingdao and beyond while contributing to a charitable cause. What began as a few small ideas quickly grew into a vibrant programme of activities.

Participants explored the Qingdao Beer Museum, walked through the city’s historic European architecture, and shared unforgettable meals during a traditional Chinese Imperial Banquet. Others joined intangible cultural heritage workshops, where they experienced traditional crafts and cultural practices passed down through generations. For those wanting to travel further, we organised a journey to the ancient city of Qingzhou, offering a deeper glimpse into China’s long history and diverse cultural traditions.

Beyond cultural tours, the fundraising team also hosted Ambassador Crew sharing sessions, where sailors spoke about their journeys, the spirit of the Clipper Race, and the importance of giving back through the global sailing community. At the marina, charity merchandise stalls featuring specially designed cultural products attracted many visitors and became lively gathering points for conversations, stories, and support for the cause.

What made these events truly special was the incredible enthusiasm of the Clipper Race community. Crew members, friends, and families from around the world came together not only to celebrate the Qingdao stopover, but also to contribute to a shared mission — supporting children who need it most.

Thanks to their generosity and participation, these activities helped raise funds for UNICEF’s work protecting and improving the lives of children worldwide. More importantly, they showed how a global community — brought together by the sea — can also come together to make a difference.