All ARC+ boats are now safe and happy inside Marina Mindelo on the island of Sao Vicente in the Cape Verdes archipelago. The last arrival was moored up by Sunday morning making a total of 42 rally yachts. The atmosphere here in Mindelo has been fantastic throughout the stopover and all crews have truly loved their time in the Cape Verdes. On Sunday a full day tour in Santo Antao was enjoyed by 80 participants who all returned agreeing it had been a real highlight thus far and came away feeling they had learned a great deal about the archipelago and it’s unique diverse culture. Monday gave over 160 participants the opportunity to see the island of Sao Vicente outside of Mindelo. A bus journey took them to the islands highest peak providing a 360° view of the whole island. From there, the bus descended to Praia Norte where all participants enjoyed an excellent BBQ lunch on the beach all to themselves.
'Now I understand why it's called ARC+ - Wow!' - Erik Roede, Yacht OdaA full day tour of the magnificent island of Santo Antao was organised for 80 ARC+ participants on Sunday. A local ferry service took crews from Mindelo to Sao Vicente where they were met by out friendly tour guides from Aventura Cruises. Four buses of 20 drove the ARC+ visitors up into the mountains of the island where they could witness some truly breath-taking scenery. Craggy cliff tops, tropical green valleys and impressive volcanic craters made for some super photo sights. The buses ventured deep into the heart of the island, navigating steep ridges and meandering through traditional villages that appeared to be stuck onto the sides of mountains.
A stop was made for lunch at a local restaurant in Ribeira Grande, where the local dish of Cachupa was served, the islands’ national dish of corn, beans, fresh fish, all slow cooked into a tasty wholesome stew. Following luch, a stop was made at the traditional rum distillery where Ox still act as the engine power to crush the sugar cane before fermentation. From this fermentation, the alcohol is blended with mollasess to make the national drink known as grogue. Crews had the opportunity to taste and purchase this potent spirit before making their way back to the ferry terminal.
‘That was a day to remember, one of the best tours I have ever done, and so happy I came along’ – Carol Murray, Karma Wins
‘I have participated in many World Crusing events before, but today was a massive highlight’ – Marc Elbert, Hanami IIA half day tour on Monday provided over 160 participants to take a bus tour outside of Mindelo and see the island of Sao Vicente. The views from the islands highest peak were fabulous and gave a great perspective of how baron and dry the landscape is in comparison to the lush surroundings in Santo Antao. It was explained how each island is so very different from the next, incentivising many sailors to want to return to the islands again one day. All participants then stopped for a BBQ lunch at the beautiful Praia Norte. On arrival, welcome drinks were served before people could help themselves to a great BBQ meal and soak up the sunshine then take a dip in the sea to cool off. A local band provided the perfect soundtrack to this idyllic occasion.
After these few days of exploration, boats are now getting ready for the Atlantic passage ahead. Some last minute provisioning of fresh fruit & veg, water and fuelling is to be made before the fleet head off on Wednesday 20 at 1300 local time.