World ARC 2024-25 start from Recife was under wetter skies than hopped but this did not dampen any spirits from the crews onboard who have had a thrilling stay in Brazil.
Since their departure in Namibia and for some direct sail from Cape Town, their journey across the South Atlantic of some 3800NM was broken up by a stop on the island of St Helena a popular and welcoming destination for visiting yachts. The island’s remote location offers pristine marine environments, and the sighting of several whale sharks confirmed this fact.
There is also a rich history most famous as the place of Napoleon Bonaparte's exile and final days in 1821. Along with visiting the museum to learn about the maritime, military and social history on the island, the famous 699 steps of Jacob's Ladder also had to be taken on.
Sailing together and sharing so many destinations across the Indian Ocean for several months has created a very special bond between participants and it was demonstrated in abundance on St Helena. With Chinese New Year happening during their stay, it was a great excuse for another entertaining evening and the only Chinese restaurant on the Island, the Orange Tree Orient, became the venue for a very memorable event to include karaoke…we say no more!
With Brazil in their sights, the location for the fleet over the next 4 or so weeks was the newly opened Recife Marina. With brand new pontoons awaiting the inbound World ARC fleet, now made up of 18 boats, it was an exciting time for the marina staff. Seeing the marina come alive with boats, crews and friendly marineros, the local egrets were a bit alarmed by all the activity.
Offering modern amenities and its proximity to the city’s cultural and commercial centres, Recife Marina made it an ideal location for the fleet to make those essential purchases, entertain and explore further afield. Brazil is famous for its rainforests, beaches, and lively city life so it wasn’t long before the boats were washed down and secured before crews headed off to explore the largest country in South America.
Sharing breathtaking views, city life and river excursions, some of the locations visited by participants during their time in Brazil included the magnificent Chapada Diamantina (astounding views of the canyon landscapes and incredible rock formations), the Amazon Rainforest (Rio Negro), the vibrant cities of Rio de Janeiro, São Paulo and Brasilia, and the dramatic beached coast of Pernambuco (Porto de Galinhas).
Amongst so may highlights during their stay, was Carnival. Conveniently timed towards the end of their stop in Brazil, Recife and more specifically Olinda are one of the main locations where Carnival is celebrated. With a huge stage in the centre of the Old Town the importance of this political and cultural legacy was celebrated with energetic dance to frantic musical rhythms, and this was all on the doorstep of the Marina.
Additionally, organised by the Marina and on the World ARC programme was a day package to Olinda to watch the Carnival processions. Offered as an optional package the day included access to the beautiful Pousada dos Quatro Cantos, its gardens, pool area and more importantly an excellent vantage point from which to see all the Carnival action. Olinda in its own rights is a beautiful colonial town full of many galleries, workshops and museums. Just 20-minutes from the Marina, it was a popular destination for participants to visit both during and outside of Carnival time.
As part of the World ARC programme and a fitting celebration to end all the events in Brazil was a Carnival Tour on a Catamaran with delicious cocktails being served and a fine faire of local foods. Taking in the colourful sights along the river in Recife, the view of the town and its bridges laden with partygoers was quite a sight. During the event the prizes and awards for Leg 15, South Africa to Brazil, were announced. Combining both divisions to create overall results, runners up in 3rd place was Sian and Martin on Bahati, 2nd was Eva and Edgar on Saphir af Stockholm and the winners were Heej and Andy on Kaja. Navillus 3 took the winning prize for the Multihull Division. The fun competitions were won by Bahati and Escapade of London. The perpetual flag (Pride of World ARC), was presented by the last winners Sea Monster and they proudly awarded it on to the excited crew on KUMA, well deserved for all their efforts to ensure everyone had a great time in Brazil. Other prizes included the mighty fishing competition run by Chris on Mistral of Portsmouth and “down downs” congratulating and highlighting those individuals who add to the already strong spirit this fleet have together.
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As with all the stopovers on the World ARC Rally, the programme and experience the participants takeaway with them is down to the partnership and support of the local establishments with World Cruising Club. It is with great thanks to both Sueli Cavalcant and Antonio (Manôlo) Fazio and their team of hard working and welcoming Marineros at Recife Marina who have ensured the fleet’s stay has been so enjoyable. Many questions have been answered, lots of paperwork administered and services carried out. Thank you to all the team for your hard work and dedication during the World ARC’s visit to Brazil.
The Marina is overlooked by the Novotel Hotel which is also newly opened. During their time in Recife many participants have made good use of the hotel facilities. Raising several caipirinhas (Brazilian cocktail) has been a frequent activity so with some words form Caron on Mistral of Portsmouth “I have had a truly wonderful time in Brazil and toughly enjoyed our stay”, the fleet of World ARC 24-25 raise a glass to all who have welcomed us in Brazil.
Leg 16 takes the fleet to Grenada. With an optional 72-hour stop on the island of Fernando de Noronha, this journey is the final long leg in the rally, and they will gather again in Port Louis Marina from 21 March where another exciting programme of events awaits.