Start day here at Musket Cove almost looked like it was going to be a light airs motor-sail across the line heading towards Vanuatu. Skippers came to check out and get any last paper work sorted before their departure in shorts and t-shirt expecting a sunny windless day when what appeared to be a dark squall arose from the North.

As the start-time approached the weather front moved right over Malolo Lailai causing a severe lack of visibility. Due to the potential risk of going aground on the reef in these poor conditions, it was decided that the fleet would motor one behind the other led by the committee vessel passed the outer reef into safer waters and take the start from a new position marked by the press boat.

As the fleet neared the new start line, wind had increased and yachts were able to sail nicely passed the committee boat with 15+ knots of breeze. Unfortunately not all yachts that intended to depart made it to the start, Onelife had to return to port due to engine problems, Asolare and Andante also chose to return to Musket Cove where they will stay until the weather improves.

Great thanks went out to Musket Cove Marina and Resort for all that they had done for the World ARC boats. All participants enjoyed their time here immensely and on behalf of Rally Control we thank all the staff that helped us out during the stopover, especially to Dick Smith, owner of Musket Cove who we wish the very best of luck for the future. Also thanks goes to Judie and Dave Cull from ‘Take a break’ charters for their great help.