Festina Lente and Civetta II arrived in Darwin earlier today with the rest of the fleet likely to arrive over the next few days. Darwin marks the end of a free cruising period that started in Mackay during which the fleet have enjoyed cruising within the Great Barrier Reef along the north east coast of Queensland before sailing across the “top end” of Australia.
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On arrival in Darwin the yachts are required to undergo a Seawater Systems Treatment for the prevention of marine pests in accordance with Australian Aquatic Biosecurity. It’s a simple treatment where divers squirt a disinfectant liquid into the skin fittings of the vessels. The crews are then not to use any of the seawater systems on board for 10 hours to allow the disinfectant to work – a good excuse to enjoy a restaurant meal ashore. The treatments are being carried out by the friendly staff at Tek Dive Darwin and are very well managed.
After the treatment is complete the yachts are then free to proceed to their marina berths. The monohulls in the fleet are berthing at Tipperary Waters Marina and the Catamarans at The Francis Bay Mooring Basin. Darwin is a typical tropical environment and subject to severe cyclones, while it is not currently cyclone season all marinas have locks to keep the yachts within the marina safe in the event of storm surges. There is also a large tide here in Darwin so the locks have the additional benefit of keeping the water free of tides inside.
Darwin is a vibrant city known as a tropical melting pot of food and culture that reflects it’s close proximity to Asia. Crews can look forward to highlights such as the sunset markets on Mindil Beach, welcome drinks hosted by Dinah Beach Yacht Club and a tour to Litchfield National Park. While in Darwin it is also possible to see many crocodiles in the wild or if you will right in the heart of the city at the famous Crocosarus Park where you can even swim in the same tank as them!
The World ARC fleet will be in Darwin until the start of Leg 9 to Bali on 2nd September.