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The World ARC fleet are currently spread over both hemispheres of
the globe whilst they cruise from the Kingdom of Tonga to Fiji. It’s a
‘free-cruising’ period of the rally so crews have the complete choice of when
and where to cruise.
Some of the boats have chosen to stay a bit longer in The Kingdom
of Tonga before moving on. The Vava’u group of islands, in the north of Tonga,
has 70 islands to visit and many sheltered coves and bays which all explain its
well-deserved reputation as a great South Pacific cruising grounds. The latest
yacht to arrive will be Merlyn of Poole
that was delayed in French Polynesia due to repairs. They have approximately
100Nm to sail to Port Refuge in the Vava’u Group and some catching up to do but
with 8 or so World ARC boats still in the islands, they’ll get the ‘heads up’
advice of where especially to visit. Some crews just loved it.
“According
to the pilot book we are using, this is the most beautiful anchorage in Vava'u
and we certainly would not disagree. The water depth varies and creates a
kaleidoscope of blues and these contrasts with the pristine white sand beaches.”
Firefly
However, the majority of the World ARC boats are already in Fiji or on their way there. Some have cleared
in at Savusavu on Vanua Levu and will make their way westwards to the largest
island of Viti Levu, either slowly along the north coast or by visiting Suva. Other
yachts sailed straight to Viti Levu and checked in at Suva or Vuda Point Marina
near Lautoka. Fiji has lots to see and
the people are so friendly. You’ll never pass a Fijian without a friendly
greeting of “Bula!”
The yachts will continue their free cruising for the rest of June.
At the end of the month all the yachts are expected to be in Fiji for a Rally
Rendez-vous at Musket Cove Resort.
Check the World ARC fleet viewer here.