The World ARC rally is all about making memories-of-a-lifetime and Fiji has proved again and again to be a highlight of the itinerary. We asked a few of the boats to tell us about their best bits, as they spent three weeks exploring just a few of the stunning 330 Fijian islands.
For the Ogilvie family, sailing on Dilema a Moody 54, Fiji has been an unforgettable experience. Jayne Ogilvie says, “Fiji is right up there with the best places in the world to visit, especially by boat. The sailing has been superb and has given us the freedom to meander and dwell on stunning, remote islands.
“Our three boys got their Open Water Scuba qualifications at Paradise Resort in Taveuni and were totally spoilt as their first dives were on the famous White Wall.
"We have partied on quiet beaches lit by simple bonfires, feasted with families on the shoreline, seen incredible sunsets, snorkelled for hours in magnificent corals, swum with manta rays, played in watery caves and loved the company of the very friendly Fijian people. Fiji is such an incredible place! We will return.”
The crews from Bahati, Dilema, Kaja and Solaris stopped in the Yasawas to enjoy the popular Sawa-i-Lau caves. Offering a unique in-water experience, these limestone caves feature two caverns filled with a mix of fresh and sea water. To swim between the two, it involves navigating a brief underwater passage!
Further down island, they got to enjoy the famous Blue Lagoon anchorage off Nanuya Lailai, where they gathered for a Lovo (traditional Fijian cuisine) on the beach.
For Lisbeth Brøde Jepsen, sailing the islands with her husband, Axel and their two boys on a Nautitech 44 catamaran, the small island of Yadua touched their hearts the most. She says, "It was where we experienced the most beautiful snorkelling to date, with incredible big and beautiful corals, caves and thousands of fish of all sizes. It was completely unbeatable!"
For Frances Clifford from Navillus 3, who is sailing on a Lagoon 46 catamaran with partner Brian and their friend Eimer, she says, “Fiji has exceeded all expectations.”
“We’ve had some excellent sailing, the warmest of welcomes and have enjoyed everything Fiji has to offer, from the local culture, stunning scenery, deserted islands, and Fijian feasts to informal resorts, fancy marinas and incredible snorkelling. We don’t want to leave!”
Completing their Fijian tour this week, the rally boats gathered at Musket Cove Island Resort & Marina in the beautiful Mamamuca Island group. As the boats arrived, there was an impromptu pontoon party with hugs and embraces all round as friends reunited and eagerly caught up with each other’s incredible adventures.
Later they dined with their toes in the sand and enjoyed a sumptuous Fijian feast. This was followed by a traditional Meke - a combination of dance and storytelling through harmonious song – which culminated in a fun and riotous group dance. The mood was high, the atmosphere festive and a thoroughly entertaining and fun evening was had by all.
%20-%20JS.jpg)
With the 4th July looming, the Yacht Club Island Bar at Musket Cove, which is set on the beach by the pontoon, was the perfect venue for the American boats to hold a celebration party.
Celebrating their Independence Day, Abide, Corsair, Crazy Horse, Esperanza and Kaja kindly invited everyone to a beach BBQ. This was accompanied by some highly entertaining beach games, which included Blind Man’s Kayak Race and Tug of War!
The Tug of War started with the boys against the girls and finished with the USA versus The Rest of The World. Well done to the boys and the USA for being strong armed and winning their rounds.
Sadly, the time has come to say goodbye to three World ARC rally boats, Madeleine, Axonite, decided to extend their stay in Fiji. Meanwhile, while the rally continues and the boats are now sailing onwards to discover Vanuatu.