During the last few day, the World ARC fleet have been rounding off a really enjoyable time in South Africa and Cape Town, before heading off to the mid-Atlantic Island of Saint Helena and Brazil on Saturday. On Thursday evening, the Rally programme included a splendid Farewell Party at the Royal Cape Yacht Club. Whilst most of the crew chose to cruise around the Cape in the company of other yachts, it has been a while since the fleet has been together in such numbers. And it showed! There was a great atmosphere in the Club’s main bar as World ARC crews discussed their experiences in South Africa and thoughts for the next bit of the trip.
But it was an early start the next morning in order to meet with South African Immigration officers to conduct international clearances before the World ARC Skippers Briefing for the next leg. Skippers and crews got to know about the details of Saturday’s start from Table Bay, as well as learn more about the wonderful island of St Helena and the party that awaits the crew’s arrival in Salvador de Bahia, in Brazil.
The start will take place on Saturday 5 January at 1100hrs. It’s planned to use a start line off the Royal Cape Starting Hut which should give spectators a good few from Seal Point. However, if the weather demands it, the start line may have to be further to the east. From Table Bay its 1700 nautical miles to St Helena and a further 1900 miles to Salvador. Time to rest after exploring so much in South Africa and after an energetic festive season!