Branec IV, the trimaran skippered by Frenchman Roger Langevin, arrived into Richards Bay just after 10am local time.  The double-handed team completed the 1370 nm passage from Reunion Island in 6 days and 22 hours.  Awaiting them in Zululand Yacht Club was a rapturous welcome from club members and fellow yachtsmen, with horns being let off, and a bottle of Champagne presented by club manager Charles Fowler.

Richards Bay was chosen as the entry point for the World ARC fleet into Africa for its good quality berthing facilities, and superb location for safari excursions.  It is in the heart of Zululand and the friendly Zulu tribes.  Zulu translates into English as 'people from heaven'.

On the programme is a reception with Zulu warrior dancers, followed by dinner.  Two seminars are being held, one by the well-known South African yachtsman, Tony Herrick, who will talk to the crews about their passage down the coast to Cape Town.  Roy Cook, the voice of the SSB net 'Radio Peri Peri' will also be talking to the sailors, discussing the advantages of joining this long running radio net as they sail south.

Cape Town and Johannesburg host a whisky festival each November, and through World Cruising Club's association with the Classic Malts Selection, and the Classic Malts Cruise, a whisky tasting evening has been arranged for the World ARC fleet and Zululand Yacht Club members.  The premium whisky market in South Africa has grown at double-digit rates in recent years.  Each of the World ARC yachts will be flying a Talisker flag as they cruise from Richards Bay to Cape Town.  Further details of the Whisky Live Festival can be found at www.whiskylivefestival.co.za/static/festival/index.php