At 1100 this morning the World ARC fleet crossed the start line commencing Leg 6 of their circumnavigations; Musket Cove, Fiji to Port Resolution, Vanuatu. Firefly made a good start but Brizo Garlix and Mekana were only meters astern. Winds were light making for a slow start but it was still a spectacular sight watching the fleet ghost along, their white sails contrasting with the impossibly blue Fijian waters and sky. After crossing the start skippers remained vigilant as they made two narrow passes; firstly through the inner reef and then later the outer reef before finally reaching open ocean. The light winds are expected to continue overnight before the ESE trades fill in tomorrow.
Unusual for this time of year there is a named Cyclone, Raquel, formed north of the Solomon Islands. While Raquel is well to the NW of Vanuatu it is expected that we may find some cloudy increasing over the next few days with some precipitation and increased squall activity as the fleet near their destination.
Looking back on our week here in Musket Cove it’s been a busy time of partying and fun. Rum punch, island BBQ’s, early morning island walks and a beach sports afternoon which included an incredibly fun blind kayak race! Capping it all off on Thursday night was a wonderful Fijian feast featuring a huge pork spit roast followed by traditional Fijian Meke dancing.
On departing Fiji the fleet are saying a sad but fond farewell to yachts Exocet Strike and Afar VI who will extend their cruising in the Pacific before re-joining World ARC next year. Happily though the fleet numbers are being maintained by the re-joining of four yachts from the 2014 fleet who did the same, Brizo, Firefly, Starblazer and Trillium.
This visit has been World ARC’s fifth visit to Musket Cove Marina and Resort. The welcome has been as warm as ever and the attention of the wonderful staff, second to none. The experience here begins with a friendly welcome on the VHF from Sophie in the marina office and continues with each friendly Bula! from the resort staff. World Cruising Club, on behalf of the World ARC fleet, sincerely thank the owners and management of Musket Cove Resort and Marina and especially Sophie, Patric and their team who put in a huge amount of effort ensuring our visits are a continuing success.