Having crossed three major oceans and sailing close to 26,000 nautical miles, the 2014/15 World ARC fleet have enjoyed a festive welcome in Salvador, Brazil. Arriving during the city’s busiest time of year, 1.5million people are expected to take to the streets to celebrate carnival.
During the build up to the five day event, this week the fleet enjoyed a city tour with Tours Bahia exploring the rich history that the first Brazilian capital has to offer. The tour visited sights including Farol (lighthouse) da Barra and Convento (church) de S. Francisco before finishing in the Pelourinho (the main square are of the old town). A cruising briefing presented by local sailor Eduardo Moura allowed an insight into the sailing grounds that the coast has to offer, advising the fleet on the must see spots for their free cruising of Brazil.
Last night, Coco Bistro Restaurant hosted the welcome function and prize giving for Leg 15 of the fleet’s circumnavigation. Based in the heart of the old town cocktails, canapés and an impressive display from a school of capoeira dancers entertained the fleet.
The relatively windless crossing from Cape Town resulted in the majority of the fleet registering high engine hours. This said a selected few who didn't tolerate the drone of the engine made for some varied results on corrected time. Winner of ‘Class A’ Festina Lente, took first prize on corrected time registering only 26.50 engine hours for the Italian double handers, whilst in ‘Class B’ Merlyn of Poole (Oyster 45) took first prize despite being the last to arrive in their class.
The fleet can now enjoy a free cruising period to make the most of their time in Brazil, allowing flexibility to enjoy carnival and the many islands before a rendezvous in Fortaleza and Grenada. The World ARC stopover in Salvador has only been possible with the support from local organisations who have helped to make the fleets stay in Brazil memorable. Thanks to Socicam Marina, FENEB (Federação de Esportes Náuticos do Estado da Bahia), Tours Bahia and the Port Authority.