The fleet left Porto the morning of the 18 June with an impressive start where locals stood to watch the fleet sail down the river Douro. Strong favourable northerly winds developed as they sailed south towards Figueira da Foz and allowed them to experience some fast sailing all the way south to the the entrance, having experienced near gale force winds on rounding the final headland.
The 17 June the participants had an early rise to be on the bus by 0830 to take them to Coimbra for a tour of the oldest university in Portugal and its' library, which was absolutely stunning. They had a few hours to enjoy some Portuguese restaurants before getting on the bus to go to Montemor Castle which was a nice place to finish the tour overlooking the rice planes, with a welcome light cool breeze blowing after the heat of Coimbra. Arriving at 1630 the participants had the afternoon off to go and explore the city of Figueira da Foz.
Monday 20 June at 1230 an official welcoming reception was given by the the Mayor Joao Ataide, joined by the Admiral in charge of the Portuguese Maritime Authorities and the Commodore of Club Nautico Figueira da Foz, Miguel Amaral. Kind words of welcome were said followed by the prize giving, after which the participants enjoyed some Port wine and local pastries.
This prize giving the wooden spoon for the worst Smiley Miley was given to Carnival who also won the ETA competition missing their guess by only 18 minutes. With dignity came first overall again, but won the prize for best Smiley Miley. Last but no least Bonhomme William got a prize for being placed 4th on corrected time.