Auckland to Fiji 2006

by Fendall Halliburton, Royal Akarana YC on 10 Nov 2005 Following the outstanding success of the Auckland to Suva Ocean race this year a strong ground swell of opinion has convinced the RAYC to change its planned 2006 destination from Noumea, New Caledonia to Fiji. The 2006 Ocean race will go to Western Fiji; the host will be the Vuda Point Yacht Club. The finish line will be in the Momi Passage at the Navula Light.

The location at the Vuda Point Marina is 15 minutes from Nadi Airport. The marina is inland and surrounded by palm trees. Mooring is bow or stern to the wall. All marina type facilities are available including two travel lifts. It is anticipated that Vuda Point a well-known service centre for yachtsmen will be an ideal departure point for a Fiji cruise either a short holiday before returning to NZ or the beginning of something more ambitious.

This race will include for the first time a Corinthian Division targeted at boats 35 feet or less and cruising boats. The race starts on Saturday 3 June 2006. The Corinthian Division starts on Wednesday 31 May. This division will compete for PHRF, ORC and IRC handicaps with the fleet starting on the 3 June. The cruising division, 'The Bula Division' will be rated separately from the racing divisions and will include a motoring option.

The criterion for the Corinthian Division is any two of the following three conditions;
1. 35 feet LOA
2. PHRF no greater than the Farr 10.20 class.
3. Design date before 1980.

The Corinthian division will enable a Cav 32 taking 9 days to Fiji to be at the party by the Friday or boats such as a Lotus 10.6 or a Cav 39 to be propping up the bar by as early as Wednesday to cheer the arrival of some fast boats. The 'Members Stand' overlooks the entrance in the photo and is sure to be the scene of some wild welcomes.

Fendall Halliburton
Race Director RAYC