A competitive start marked the departure from Mauritius to La Réunion. Now berthed alongside the dock in Le Port on the north east coast of the island, the 130 nautical mile sail was a contrast to the longer ocean passages usually undertaken, allowing them to arrive during the same day.
First arrival was American Spirit II who departed Mauritus early to continue work on their forestay repairs in La Réunion. They were closely followed by Nexus, NDS Darwin and the remainder of the fleet transforming the long dock in Le Port to a colourful spectacle of flags and bunting. After the last arrival, preparations were already well underway for a welcome reception at the Dodo Palm Gourmet Restaurant.
.JPG)
.JPG)
.JPG)
The evening gave chance for words of welcome, and the opportunity for World ARC to thank those that have now, and in previous years made the rally stay possible. With special thanks to Karin Infant (Marie of Le Port), Patrick Servaux (President of the Ile de La Réunion Tourisme), Patricia Lowcame-merchado (President of the Western Tourist Office), Jean Frederick (Port) and Patrick (IRT). Each yacht was presented with welcome gifts of rum, jam and information packs preparing them for their week stay on the picturesque island. A prize giving for Leg 12 followed the messages of thanks before live music, local dancers and a selection of local foods entertained the fleet for the remainder of the evening.