The World ARC fleet departed the Cocos (Keeling) Islands this morning, embarking on the second longest passage of their circumnavigations, a 2350 nautical mile crossing of the Indian Ocean. The start was held in the crystal clear aquamarine waters of the Cocos lagoon with a fresh 15kts Sou’Easterly blowing. It quite a spectacle as the yachts made a fast beam reach across the line and out into the Indian Ocean. The committee vessel was Australia Federal Police patrol boat “Platypus I” and members of the AFP joined in with Rally Control to give the fleet a great send off.
Participants have thoroughly enjoyed their stay in Cocos (Keeling) Islands, the anchorage at Direction Island is incredibly beautiful, uninhabited, swaying palm trees, a long white sand beach, warm clear waters, good snorkelling and BBQ shelters ashore. The inclusion of an internet hotspot for the visiting yachts is also very welcome. As Sarah Barthelet from Makena described it, “it’s paradise with Wifi!”
While in Cocos (Keeling) Islands crews have gone on cultural tours of nearby Home Island, visiting the scenic highlights of the island and learning about the history and lifestyle of the local Malay people. Some participants also enjoined a visit to West Island for tours and activities there. On Sunday following the Skippers Briefing held in the shelters ashore on Direction Island, World ARC arranged a lovely beach BBQ for all crews. Due to the remoteness of Direction Island everything had to be brought in boat but the food was excellent and the caterers even brought an expresso machine so people could stand barefoot in the sand drinking a fine cappuccino or espresso, nice!
Such a successful World ARC visit to Cocos (Keeling) Islands would not be possible without the support of many organisations and individuals who have contributed to the planning and delivery of the stopover. On behalf of all the crews, World Cruising would like to thank everyone involved in supporting the visit including Cocos Keeling Islands Visitors Centre, the Resources Centre, the Australian Federal Police, Cocos Islands Co-operative, Shamroks Supermarket, Cocos Tropical Foods and everyone else who went out of their way to make the fleet feel welcome. Cocos is a small place with a very big heart.
As the fleet make their way across the Indian Ocean, they have the attractions of Mauritius to look forward to where expected arrivals will be in approximately two weeks.