Leaving the vibrant atmosphere of the Salvador carnival behind them, the World ARC 2014/15 fleet have enjoyed a free cruising period making the most of exploring the Brazilian coast and islands including the must see Fernando de Noronha.
“Well, Fernando de Noronha has been a great place to visit. The people are friendly and landscape beautiful.” - Nexus
![](/CMS/CMS/Library/event_images_WA2014/Fortaleza%20-%20Line.jpg)
A rendezvous in the modern city of Fortaleza gave chance for crews to meet up and share stories before their sail north to the Caribbean island of Grenada, only a short distance away from the rally start port in St Lucia where they departed 14 months earlier. With many enjoying the free cruising period, only a small number of yachts made it to Fortaleza making for an intimate group and relaxing stay for the stopover. A large swimming pool, tennis courts and a wide choice of restaurants made their stay comfortable and enjoyable.
Yesterday, cocktails by the pool and a crew dinner was a fitting way to say farewell to what has been a memorable time in Brazil before the start of leg 16 this morning. With only 1680 nautical miles left to sail until reaching Caribbean waters, the World ARC 2014/15 fleet are that much closer to completing their circumnavigation.