The 27 boats making up the ARC Baltic fleet are now two weeks into their adventure of cruising the Baltic Sea having visited Germany, Denmark, Sweden, Estonia and now Russia.
The fleets’ stopover in Tallinn, Estonia was a memorable one with a full social programme of activities organised for crews to enjoy. After the sail from the secluded island of Gotska Sandӧn where most experienced a mixture of weather facing moderate winds to dense fog, the 1980 Moscow Olympics marina in Pirita welcomed the fleet with the typical mooring style found throughout the Baltic; picking up a buoy and reversing to the quay.
A free day on Friday allowed rest where it was needed after their overnight passage and provided the chance to stock up with supplies and begin to explore what the old town of Tallinn had to offer. A crew dinner at the Restoran Maikrahv, a typical medieval Restoran in the main square of the old town was a good chance for new arrivals to get to know the core fleet whilst enjoying live music and relaxing into the ARC Baltic way of life. Many continued to the early hours making the most of the nightlife available.
The following morning, a guided tour of the old town shed light on the historical progression of the town and its importance in the development of Estonia. Visiting a number of churches, the city walls and government houses crews were well informed about the Estonian capital. This was followed by a talk from Hans Hansell, Skipper of leadboat Working on a Dream who gave an overview of the Baltic wars over the centuries.
“Skipper of our leadboat also gave a fascinating talk on the complicated history of wars and alliances in the Baltic over the last few hundred years” – Yacht Jennie B
Before departure skippers were well informed about the passage ahead of them with passage tips, weather advice and detailed exit and entry procedures via a skippers briefing. Detailing the controlled approach and entry process for what is for many the highlight of their Baltic adventure, St Petersburg, Russia.