At the Rally briefing yesterday, Andrew Bishop explained that the idea for ARC Portugal came from a cruise he took down the coast of Portugal in the late eighties. The friendliness of the Portuguese, the fine wine, unlimited sardines and the beauty of the countryside & towns along this rarely visited coast, inspired the idea for a cruise-in-company. ARC Portugal is now in its nineteenth year, and more than 370 boats have taken part so far. While the itinerary has changed over the years, the ethos of a social cruise with exploring ashore and afloat has remained strong.
Following on from the briefing and a complimentary glass of wine, crews were asked to take a seat at one of the circular tables as dinner was ready to be served. A fine buffet style curry was served to sixty participants, well enjoyed by all. Clive, owner of Valhalla said jokingly (or not) 'I'm going for seconds because I think this will be the last time I don't eat my dinner out of a can for a while'. Participants continued to mingle after dinner and ambled back to the marina in their own time. It was fantastic to witness so many participants making such strong bonds so early in the rally. Long may it continue!
Saturday has brought yet more glorious sunshine to Mayflower as participants complete some last minute shopping for food and any other equipment required for the crossing. Final paperwork has been handed in to the office and yellowbrick trackers have been installed on each yacht. The briefing takes place this afternoon where skippers will be briefed on weather outlooks, and procedures as they make the Biscay crossing and on arrival into Bayona. The weather outlook is looking favourable at the moment, with a well established high pressure providing light winds from North to North East.