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In good starting conditions, the World ARC fleet today began the next leg of their circumnavigation; a relatively short 450 nautical mile passage from Fiji to the island of Tanna in Vanuatu. There was a good 10-15 knot breeze blowing down through the start line and so the fleet got off to a good and quick start.
Navigating within the reefs of some of the Fijian island can be tricky but the starting area, line and course beginning were well marked, thanks to the assistance of Musket Cove Marina. The fleet crossed the line at 1100 hrs and were lead safely away by Pat, Jack and Vossa in the escort boat Starry. There were a number of other boats who came to watch the fleet depart, including Huib Jan and Maran from Seaquest (who leave the Rally in Fiji). It was a great spectacle to watch and take part in.
The first boat quickly across the line was the Hanse 53 12 moons who continued to lead the rest of the fleet out to the Malolo Pass. 12 moons was followed by GUNVOR XL and Working on a Dream but the remainder of the fleet were not far behind.
The committee boat then manage to leave station and follow the fleet to beyond the inner pass. Despite leaving such a wonderful place as Musket Cove Resort the fleet appeared happy to be back in the competitive grove, having spent almost a month free cruising around Tonga and Fiji.
Thank you once again for all those who made the World ARC stay at Musket Cove Resort a success. Thank you Josie & Will, Olivia, Joe, Patrick, Sophie, Ka and La and the team for all their hard work. The fleet had a great stay. Thanks also to Dave & Judy Cull and crew, from the charter boat ‘Dolphin Star’, for providing the committee boat.
The fleet are expect to arrive in Tanna between Monday 9 - Tuesday 10 July.