Whilst waiting for the ARC+ fleet to arrive at their mid-Atlantic stop of Mindelo, on Cape Verdean island of São Vicente, you easily realise the excitement which is bubbling around the Marina, in the government offices and in bars and restaurants. The arrival of the second edition of the ARC+ will bring 50 sailing yachts, with over 200 crew members from more than 20 nationalities to Mindelo and is therefore a big event for the city.
The arrival of such numbers will test the authorities more than usual, but the officers of Immigration and Polícia Marítima are ready. With the first boat, Intrepid Elk, arriving today after lunchtime 32 other boats are expected to be in Marina Mindelo in the next 24 hours. “We remember from last year that it is busy, but we enjoy having more sailors visit our island. We are prepared and looking forward to their arrival” said Gildo Ordes of the Polícia Marítima.
Lutz Scheyer-Meyer is one of the co-owners of Marina Mindelo. “The marina is well organised for the arrival of the ARC+ 2014. Since the last visit we have improved a number of our facilities which we know will benefit the crews during their stay. We intend to provide a good welcome and safe home for the yachts. Myself and all the staff are excited to meet this group of international sailors”.