World ARC prizegiving in Vanuatu for Leg 6
by World Cruising Club 26 Jul 2019 11:07 UTC
World ARC anchorage in Port Resolution © World ARC
The Waterfront Bar & Grill hosted the prizegiving drinks and dinner for Leg 6 (Fiji to Vanuatu). The evening began with welcome drinks as the sun set over the harbour of Port Vila. The atmosphere was of mixed feelings as this is the last evening many of the participants will be together. A number of boats said their goodbyes to World ARC 2019-20. Some will re-join next year to complete their circumnavigation of the world after exploring Australia and New Zealand. Others are returning home after completing their ambitions to sail across the South Pacific.
During their time here in Vanuatu the fleet have had the opportunity to explore two of the southern islands, Tanna and Erromango. Being able to see these incredibly remote and self-sufficient places for a number of the fleet been their highlight of the entire rally so far.
The island of Efate has also added to their admiration of the country. Over 35 participants went on tours to visit the Mele Cascades Waterfall this week which began with an introduction and commentary as the drive took them through villages and schools. Guided through the lush and tropical rainforest the group were met by clear natural rock pools where they enjoyed a refreshing dip in the beautiful waterfalls.
During the prizegiving dinner awards were given for 1st, 2nd and 3rd in each class and the ever popular ETA and bonus competition.
The Monohull Division A was won by SKY, closely followed by Alora in 2nd place and Nikitoo in 3rd place.
Division B was won by Chanto. 2nd was Endo2 and Footloose came 3rd.
The closely fought multihull Division was a close run with Cabana coming in 3rd, Resolute II 2nd and the amazing family boat Charm, piped them all the post.
The ETA competition was won by Chanto who cleverly came in just 7 minutes under their estimated time. The bonus question was won by Manihi who guessed just 35 airmiles off the total travelled by Stefano, Andrew and SWade between the start of Leg 7 and the prizegiving dinner.
Following the prizes, it was an emotional but heartfelt goodbye from all the yachts departing the Rally from Vanuatu. Each skipper was presented with a commemorative plaque and asked to say a few words. The community created during World ARC is incredibly special and the speeches reflected the strong bonds between boats and the very unique times shared which will be treasured for life.
A great night was enjoyed by all and the evening finished with live music and dancing going on well into the night.