Arriving in French Polynesia almost two months ago, the World ARC fleet have enjoyed cruising around the mountainous islands with their turquoise lagoons and surrounding coral reefs. Today marked the end of their time in the Society Islands as the fleet set off on their next adventure to Tonga via the remote atoll of Suwarrow (Cook Islands) and the worlds smallest independent nation, Niue.
The past week has been chance for crews to rendezvous in the town of Uturoa on the northeast coast of Raiatea. Farewell drinks with live music and a buffet meal gave the fleet chance to share stories of their experiences over the last few weeks sailing. The farewell drinks also gave chance to welcome the German crew on Clementina, a Sweden Yacht 54 who has joined the fleet in Raiatea.
For the ‘early birds’, a morning hike up Mount Tapioi on Friday was worth the effort in the morning heat. At the peak stunning views of the lagoon of Raiatea and Tahaa greeted them with a clear view Huahine and Bora Bora in the distance making the hike worthwhile. Unfortunately heavy rain clouded the remainder of the day and most used this opportunity to refuel and provision for the next leg.
Yesterday morning, a skipper’s briefing provided details of the next sail to Tonga, sharing information on Suwarrow and the island of Niue where they will visit en-route with a full social programme awaiting them. The first of the fleet are expected to arrive in Niue near the 19 May.
This morning as expected, the wind was minimal with only 1-3 knots on a very calm lagoon. The 1000 start as a result was hot, and despite best efforts to sail, the motoring rule had to be relaxed which allowed the fleet to use their engines and motor sail across the start line.
Now en-route and with the wind not expected to increase for another two days, some of the fleet will take the opportunity to spend a night in Bora Bora before continuing, whilst others have opted to motor sail direct to Suwarrow, where vibrant marine life and remoteness awaits them!
