ARC+ bid farewell to the Cape Verdes

ARC+ bid farewell to the Cape Verdes

There were mixed feelings on the docks today as busy crews made their final preparations for the 2100NM passage to the Caribbean, which departs from Mindelo on Wednesday 14 November. The entire fleet have really enjoyed their time here in the Cape Verdes, and will remember this experience for a long time to come. They are now ready for their next stage of the ARC+ adventure, and keen to get back out on the water and hoist the sails that will power them across the Atlantic.

A skippers briefing was held this morning, Tuesday 19 November, where all skippers plus one crew member attended the lecture theatre inside the Mindelo Cultural Centre to receive the ever important pre departure information. Event Manager Paul Tetlow delivered the briefing covering start line procedures from Mindelo, weather forecasts, communications at sea, arrival into St Lucia, as well as of important pre-departure information to fully prepare the fleet.

This afternoon, the docks were filled with busy participants returning from the town with some final provisioning of fresh produce as well as any other bits & pieces they feel they may need. Participants have been generally very impressed with what has been available here in Mindelo, not only regarding provisioning of food but also technical support and sail repairs. Thanks goes to Kai Brossman and Tuga for all their hard work over the fleets stopover. On the topic of thanks, the ARC+ team on behalf of the fleet give huge thanks to all the staff at Marina Mindelo, with special thanks to Marina Manager Johanna for her excellent support and hard work leading up to and during the ARC+ stopover.

A crew supper was held this evening in Casa Da Morrna, as a final get-together before the big day tomorrow. It was a fantastic evening with live music from local Morrna band. An excellent seafood menu was enjoyed by all within the very stylish restaurant, which overlooked the Marina. After the main course, the competitive element of the rally was expressed as results were awarded for Leg1.