The World ARC fleet made a great sight today as they sailed across the start line at the entrance to Benoa Harbour, Bali. Before leaving Bali International Marina, Arsa, a tour guide who had looked after the fleet during their week-long stay, visited yachts to perform a traditional Hindu blessing. It was a beautiful way to send off the fleet and a very special moment for many.
The wind performed exactly the same trick as it did in Darwin, in that there was very little wind until five minutes before the start when, just on cue, the breeze picked up enough to allow the fleet to set their sails and take the start. This caused some concern for the race committee, anchored at the start line, and the crews as they tried to position themselves for the line, but first across the line was Hubert Hirschfield's X Yacht Chika – Lu.
The marine police unit from Benoa Harbour provided the patrol boat X12004 and her crew to act as committee vessel. Two other police boats with flashing lights and sirens joined the fleet for their pilotage out to the start line which also really added to the occasion.
From Bali the fleet heads west into the Indian Ocean, bound ultimately for the Cocos (Keeling) islands, 1000 nautical miles away. Most of the fleet will also take the opportunity to stop at Christmas Island which lies about half way along the route. Christmas Island will give participants the chance to spend up to 48 hours exploring this rarely visited, but interesting, island famed for the running of the Red Crabs and its bird life. The first yachts are expected to arrive in Christmas Island around Wednesday whilst those continuing direct to Cocos Keeling should start arriving in seven to eight days.
Whilst sailing away from Bali the fleet will be reflecting on the incredible welcome given by everybody in this amazing country. Participants have taken part in a wide range of activities during their short time on the island. Some have climbed volcanoes to witness incredible sun rises whilst others have scuba dived, visited temples and made the most of the great culinary experiences available. Bali is a deeply interesting island and it appears the fleet really enjoyed their visit and especially the warm welcome of its inhabitants.