The World ARC fleet got underway again today for their last competitive leg of the Rally; the 1680 nautical mile passage from Fortaleza in Brazil to Grenada. The route will follow the South American coastline to cross the equator and arrive in the Caribbean. Despite crossing over the equatorial margins, the winds for the leg are forecast to be good throughout at around 15 knots from the SE and then NE, as the boats progress on the ‘rum’ line route.
There were good conditions for the start, held just to the north of the Marina Park Hotel, where the fleet have been moored for the last few days. However, following a week of problem solving for Rally Control, the final challenges were when the engine of the committee boat would not start and then the motor on the replacement boat stopped, halfway from the marina to the start line! Thankfully though, Anastasia volunteered to provide the committee boat and form the start line, so that the fleet could get away on time and almost as planned. Thanks to them!
The first boat across the start line was GUNVOR XL followed by Zoe and Mr Blues who also started well . Following the first 3 starters , the majority of the fleet charged over the start line in quick succession. It was an untypical slow start for Working on a Dream who had a problem with their mainsail but they managed to resolve it quickly and cross the line soon after. After a busy week of partying in Fortaleza, there was enthusiastic chatter on the radio as the fleet got underway
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The fleet have spent around 5 weeks in Brazil which included experiencing the fantastic Carnival atmosphere in Salvador. But at the same time most of the fleet are ready to get back to the Caribbean from where, for most, their journey began almost 15 months ago. Bon Voyage!