With the entire World ARC fleet now safely berthed in Mackay Marina crews are reflecting on the magnitude of having completed an entire crossing of the Pacific Ocean. From Panama through Galapagos, French Polynesia, Cook Islands, Niue, Tonga, Fiji and Vanuatu participants have relished the beautiful and many varied island nations that make up the South Pacific “Coconut Trail”. There is a real sense of achievement among and the fleet and excitement to finally be in the far flung land of Australia. Many crews have commented on what it means to them to have made it thus far and how much they are looking forward to their time here.
Last night World ARC crews enjoyed meeting members of the Mackay Yacht Club over a few cold beers at the club bar and restaurant here in Mackay Marina. It was a great chance for participants to share some stories of their adventures so far and hear from the friendly Aussies as to what they can look forward to in the local cruising grounds. The topic of whales is commonly discussed and participants are looking forward to sighting these magnificent creatures as they migrate through the warm tropical waters of the Great Barrier Reef.
This morning crews woke early for a sunrise tour to Cape Hillsborough for the chance to see native Wallabies and Kangaroos on the beach. The early risers was well rewarded with a beautiful sunrise and the experience of meeting these uniquely Australian animals close up and in the wild.