The ARC+ 2021 flag is now raised and flying high at Mindelo Marina in Cape Verde, with the rally team at the ready to welcome the fleet to the only stopover of the rally before heading to Grenada, in the Caribbean.
After Leg 1 started in Las Palmas on Sunday 7th November, the crews had an intense welcome to Atlantic sailing for their first night at sea with large seas and strong winds off the coast of Gran Canaria. Thankfully conditions soon settled, and there have been lots of reports of fun sailing. “Wind and waves have gone down a bit and it’s comfortable sailing at the moment.” Reported the Morgane of Sark crew in their log on Wednesday. “The wind is about 10 knots NE. We are sailing with a full main, a half gib on the boom and a cutter gib. With a speed anywhere between 5 and 7 knots.”
The fleet have made good progress, enjoying a few fishing triumphs (and there were a few that got away!) and are now all well past the half way mark. The photo shows the crew of High Cotton enjoying their half way celebrations.
Mindelo is a city located on the island of São Vicente, and is the second largest city in Cape Verde. The city of Mindelo became a meeting point for sailors of all cultures, in the numerous leisure and pleasure spots throughout in the city. Over time, Mindelo has become an important cultural center renowned as a hub of artistic development and a real combination of cultures echoes everywhere from the music to the architecture.
During their time in Mindelo, participants will have the opportunity to join in a programme of events organised by World Cruising Club. Included in the ARC+ programme is a guided tour of São Vicente with the chance to explore this outstanding island, and view the remarkable sights from Monte Verde. In addition for the adventurous crews, there is a full-day tour to the neighbouring island of Santo Antão to head up in to the mountains.
The first boat is expected to arrive in the early hours of 12th November, between 0200 and 0300, and the ARC+ team is looking forward to welcoming them in!