The World ARC fleet is steadily making its way safely around the Cape of Good Hope. During this free cruising period of the Rally, the yachts have been coastal hopping around the Cape in small groups to explore different ports along the way, to enjoy the South African landscape, attractions & hospitality and also to try to avoid the weather which the Cape of Storms can occasionally churn up.
The feedback about South Africa from the crews has been great. There are many stories about the various sailing clubs they have visited such as the Royal Natal and Point Yacht Clubs in Durban and the Buffalo River Yacht Club in East London. Crews have also explored the cultural side of the country with trips to the theatre and cinema and explored the natural habitat with excursions to national parks and wildlife reserves.
During the next few weeks the yachts will congregate in and around Cape Town, either at the Victoria and Albert Waterfront, The Royal Cape Yacht Club or the Hout Bay Yacht Club. Some crews will be on board for Christmas and New Year whilst others are returning to their home countries for Christmas with families. The official World ARC programme in the ‘Mother City’ will begin in January but with many of the crews together as we approach this festive time, there will surely be many parties before then!