As well as preparing their boats for the 1600nm voyage to Saint Petersburg in Russia and back, crews on the ARC Baltic rally have been making the most of the busy social programme at the start port of Warnemünde. Despite the chilly north-westerly wind, strong enough to cause a cancellation to the first day of the Warnemünde Woche Regatta, crews enjoyed a guided tour around the old town of Warnemünde. Wandering thought the narrow cobbled streets, a city guide explained the fascinating history of how this tiny fishing village at the mouth of the Warnow river, became a popular seaside resort, then a major port, and now Germany’s busiest cruise ship terminal. The tour ended at the epic 6km long Warnemünde beach, with its pristine white sand and Lighthouse, before a chance to wander back though the old quayside, now crowded with thriving bars and restaurants.
The international group – there are crew from ten different countries within the fleet – were certainly making the most of the get-to-know-you social last night (Saturday 7th July), at the first of many rally Crew Dinners. Taking place in Warnemünde’s highest restaurant, the Riva with its panoramic views across the harbour, it was a fitting backdrop to the conversation throughout the evening as crews enjoyed north German specialities including smoked fish and the traditional sailors dish of Labskaus.
Today (Monday 8th July) has seen a welcome change in the weather, with the sun finally replacing the cloudy overcast skies in time for today’s Rally Briefing and final shopping trips in preparation for the departure tomorrow. With the sun has come a shift in the weather pattern, which promises a good passage to Rønne on the Danish island of Bornholm. Forecast winds are expected to be between 15 to 20 knots from the northwest; a good direction for the north-easterly course giving fast reaching conditions.
