After 25 days at sea the first World ARC yacht arrived at the Terminal Náutico in Salvador da Bahia, Brazil this afternoon. Ruby, owned and skippered by Herve Poron, with crew members Jacques and Etienne received an extremely warm welcome at the dock, thanks to local World ARC supporters. The trio were welcomed by a Baiana lady, resplendent in the typical costume of the region. She presented to the crew, on behalf of the local sponsors including Bahiatursa, caipirinha welcome drinks, a welcome pack of tourist information and a Carnaval Survival Kit to each crew member, which included a t-shirt, rucksack and water bottle.
Representing the local supporters were Amelia Ramon and Professor Ney, from SUDESB and Rosana Campo, Director at the Terminal Náutico, and her marina colleagues. The first arrival has been much anticipated, owing to the light winds for the second half of the passage, and so it was great for everyone to see Ruby arrive. Amelia said how exciting is was to welcome the first boat and begin an enjoyable time at the Terminal Náutico.
Speaking about the trip Herve commented simply ‘That was a long way!’ before saying how pleasant is was to follow the coast into Salvador da Bahia as the sun was setting and to see the lighthouse at Barra (Farol da Barra) which marks the finish line. Thereafter, there’s a great contrast as one gets to see the high rise buildings and the development of the city. “Its great to be here!”
The next boat to arrive in Salvador, about 24hrs later, will be the Catana 58 1+1, followed by Dreamcatcher and GUNVOR XL. There majority of the fleet will have arrived by the end of the weekend and hopefully all will arrive before the finish line closes next Thursday. The sound of Samba and Carnaval drums are already beating!