Group 1 of the World ARC say 'Nana' (bye bye) French Polynesia
by World Cruising Club 20 May 2019 07:16 UTC
World ARC 2019-20 - French Polynesia © World Cruising
Under clear blue skies and above crystal clear waters of the lagoon in Bora Bora, Group 1 of the World ARC 2019-20 yachts crossed the start of Rally Leg 5 today, Sunday 19 May 2019, at 1200hrs.
Although winds were light inside the reef (around 10kts), all boats had their canvas up as they crossed the start line under sail. Many hoisted their colourful downwind sails as they made their way through the pass and out westward into the Pacific seas.
The first of the boats were bunched closely together but the family boats took charge and first over the line was Charm, followed by Manihi and then Rubicon IV. Nica raced through the line in 4th position and RAID went through in 5th place.
The next Leg sees the fleet divide into two groups both destined for Vava'u in Tonga via Suwarrow which is a coral atoll located in the northern group of the Cook Islands and on to the most western of the Cook Islands, Niue.
Having bid the first group farewell, the second half of the fleet, Group 2, have begun to arrive to the Bora Bora Yacht Club where they will also enjoy a 3-night stay on mooring buoys situated conveniently right in front of the Club. The programme during their stay includes a sunset evening reception on the picturesque 'over the water' deck, optional dinners and comprehensive skippers briefing for the next couple of legs.
We wish the first half of the fleet fair winds and a safe sail to their first destination, Suwarrow, which they should reach by Friday if not before for the faster boats.