The Atlantic Cup fleet sets off to Bermuda

After checking out with the rally office from 0800 this morning, the Atlantic Cup participants made some last minute preparations before heading out to the start line just outside the Nanny Cay marina entrance. Lights winds dominated the start, with an 8-10knot south-easterly blowing. Boats showed great spirit by all sailing across the line and flying or attempting to fly their cruising chutes, which gave for a much more photogenic start-line. 

First across was Clive Woodman's 'Cosmic Dancer' followed by James Burdick's 'Kia Orana' and Toby Hynes' 'Comocean'. The identical catamarans 'Escapade' and 'Field Trip' held back so that they could cross the start line together both flying their parasailor cruising chutes. 'Trillium' also managed to get her cruising chute flying as she eased over the start line. 



The start boat was kindly lent to the WCC staff by Horizon Yacht Charters, so that they could orchestrate proceedings from there. Andrew counted down to the start whilst Lyall hoisted the correct code flags, and Nick & Kieran captured the action through their lenses. 

Wind conditions look light for the sail but will hopefully pick up as the fleet head North. Unfortunately Jeff Carpenter's 'Club Carp' did not make the start due to technical difficulties but is due to leave imminently.