The 2015 World ARC fleet have been especially lucky as they are the first fleet of the World ARC enabled clear into the Northern Lau Group in Fiji. World Cruising Club obtained special permission for the fleet as normally visiting yachts to Fiji are required to clear into the ports Suva or Savu Savu from which the idyllic Lau Group are a difficult sail back to windward. By clearing directly into the Lau Group this famed group of beautiful and remote islands have been available for the fleet to explore with ease at their own pace.
Since arriving in the Northern Lau Group over three weeks ago the fleet have been on a “free cruising” period where yachts are free to explore the many delightful islands here in Fiji. Some chose to stay a few extra days in the Lau Group before heading westwards towards Musket Cove through the Fijian islands. Others headed directly for the excellent repairs facilities on the western coast of the Viti Levu. Wherever they find themselves though the yachts enjoy the friendly Fijian people who always welcome us with a large smile and a loud “Bula” (the local greeting).
Now together in Musket Cove Marina the fleet welcome 2014 World ARC yachts Brizo, Firefly and Starblazer who are re-joining World ARC after exploring the South Pacific and New Zealand since departing the 2014 fleet here in Musket Cove last year. The program in Musket Cove kicked off last night with a wonderful welcome drinks on Smith’s Island here in Musket Cove resort. Skippers and crews enjoyed sharing a rum punch and swapping their sailing adventures in Fiji. Drinks were followed by a huge BBQ buffet making a very enjoyable evening. There’s an exciting program here in Musket Cove over the next few days including an afternoon of beach sports and a traditional Fijian feast.
Musket Cove is a beautiful resort on the island of Malolo LaiLai, part of the Mamanuca group of islands and is especially welcoming to visiting yachts. There is a wonderful clear water anchorage over white sands, a small marina. The Trader store, café and reception have all been remodelled in the last year and the fleet are enjoying the wonderful atmosphere and facilities here including the enormous resort pool. The famous BBQ Island Bar (just behind the marina) is proving very popular with the fleet in the evenings.
On Saturday 4th July, the World ARC will be departing for Port Resolution on the island of Tanna in Vanuatu. Port Resolution was recently devastated by Cyclone Pam and many yachts in the fleet are sitting a little lower in the water as they are carrying lots of equipment, stores and supplies they are very generously donating to communities of Port Resolution and the Port Resolution Yacht Club.