The World
ARC 2018 fleet are in their final few days before departure and after a fun
time exploring the Galapagos Islands of San Cristobal, Isabela and Santa Cruz,
the work has begun to prepare for the longest leg of the Rally route, across to
the Marquesas Islands of French Polynesia.
The fleet have gathered back together at the
commercial centre of the Galapagos Islands, Puerto Ayora. The town offers some
good restaurants, reasonable provisioning options but little by way of boat
parts and spares. During the weekend, many of the fleet have been resupplying
essential supplies such as gas, diesel, gasoline and water and at the same time
extra provisions have been bought in the local markets and stores.
But it has not been all work and the crews
got together tonight for a Prizegiving at Hernan Café and Crew Supper at the Il
Giardino Restaurant, on Puerto Ayora’s main street. Prizes were awarded for the
last leg from Panama to Galapagos, with X-Yachts Lunatix and Aranui
taking the 1st
places on the cruising monohull divisions, Class A and B respectively. Class results
can be checked here. There were also several fun prizes including for the ETA
competition and the Equator themed photo competition. Well done to all taking
part on Leg 3!
The
programme in Puerto Ayora continues with resupplies of water on Tuesday, before
immigration check out on Wednesday morning and the start at 1200LT (UTC -6).
But still time for crews to take in a last look at the superb flora and fauna
of the Galapagos islands, visiting Tortuga Beach or venture into the highlands, or even to closer Islands like Floreana.