The World ARC fleet commenced Leg 9, Darwin to Lombok, this morning under bright blue skies in light westerly winds. After a morning of little to no wind the light sea breeze was very welcome relief to the hot and humid conditions at the start. First across the line was Garlix closely followed by Luna Quest. Garlix, an XP44, revelled in the light wind conditions, establishing a commanding lead over the heavier yachts as the fleet sailed north west out of Darwin Harbour.
A number of friends and family members of the Australian catamaran Chat Eau Bleu cheered and waved from the starting platform as Chat Eau Bleu, who have joined World ARC here in Darwin, say fare well to their home country and embark on their World ARC adventure to the Caribbean.
En route to Lombok on this 920 nautical mile passage through the Arafura Sea the yachts will sail south of Timor and the outlying islands of Palua Rote, Sawu and Palau Sumba before making a slight turn to starboard heading for the south west corner of Lombok in Indonesia. The final destination being the remote island, Gili Gede and the anchorage known as Marina Del Ray.
While the condition on the start were pleasant the winds forecast for the 1st half of the route are very light and variable and the fleet are expecting extended periods of motoring. Once west of Timor though the forecast looks to improve as the South’easterly trade winds establish over the 2nd half of the route. Yachts are expected to arrive in Lombok in 7 to 9 days time.
Following an incredible six week visit to Australia, the World ARC crews have mixed sailing with adventure and exploration on land, really making the most of everything the country has to offer. From camping in the outback amongst the stars to climbing Ayers Rock, from kangaroos to crocodiles, and from Sydney Opera House to anchoring off remote paradise islands in the Whitsundays, this has really been a well-enjoyed part of the circumnavigation.
On behalf of the fleet a big thank you all our sponsors here in Darwin, especially Frying Nemo restaurant, Tipperary Waters Marina and of course our favourite lockmaster, Keith Pennicott who works tirelessly to help make our visit here such a success.