Bem vindo a Portugal

After many years coming to Póvoa do Varzim, the relationship that has slowly built up during the many years of this first stop in Portugal between the ARC Portugal fleet and this Marina is a perfect reflection of how Event and Marina have twinned to grow together and give the very best. As a result, a very successful stop every single year.

If anything highlights this charming place is the hospitality of its people, who have accepted and supported the rally since its inception, accommodating as many boats as necessary, year after year. Yesterday was a great day to commemorate and thank both the Clube Naval Povoense and Marina Póvoa do Varzim for their support and the success of the 25th edition of the rally. It is an important year, and for that reason we also wanted to thank Paulo Neves, personally, for his commendable work with regards to the rally and showing us what Póvoa do Varzim has to offer.

The prize-giving ceremony for Leg 2 took place at the yacht club restaurant, where participants had a welcome drink followed by a Portuguese cuisine dinner. The perfect excuse to get all the crews that arrived to Póvoa together.

The awarded yachts in order of positions were in first place Tiger Lily, followed by Embla II in second place of class A. In class B, the first yacht to cross the start line in Baiona, Sea Orchid, resulted to be 1st in class B followed by Zafiro in second place.

The now common Smiley Miley competition had a little twist during this leg. The fleet had to guess the average age and month of the crews on the leg. Missing the correct answer by 10 months, Skipper of yacht Flight of Time, John Richardson won the prize, suggesting 54 years and 8 months.

Slowly, the yachts that were left behind during the low at Biscay, have been trimming miles to join the rally and get back on track. The first one to join was Amarone, who made it to the Crew Supper on time and enjoyed the company of the rest of the boats. Moreover, Primadonna, has safely arrived at Póvoa do Varzim and we’re now waiting for High Spirits, who are expected to arrive during the night.

But it was not going to be just sailing and drinking. The participants headed off today to Guimaraes, in the Region of Braga. This city is the birthplace of Portugal, where participants visited its historic castle, the monument of the first King of Portugal, and various churches around the historical streets. The sun has been kind enough to stay for the whole day, making clear the promising days of sunshine that await for the fleet down the coast.