World ARC fleet 2018-19 arrive in the Caribbean Sea and beautiful Spice Island!!
by World Cruising Club 28 Mar 2019 05:58 NZDT
After sailing in the Southern Hemisphere for more than a year, the World ARC 2018-19 fleet crossed the equator to sail back into the Northern Hemisphere, signifying entry into the Caribbean Sea and the last portion of their around the world adventure.
Callisto and Madrigal were the first yachts to arrive in the wee hours of Tuesday morning March 19. They sailed approximately 2255 nautical miles directly from Cabedelo, Brazil, whilst the remainder of the fleet opted to stop in Devil's Island, French Guiana en route. The brief stop on Devil's Island, enabled them to break up the long passage and explore the interesting island with a brutal history. Devil's Island was a French prison colony for more than 100 years, and very few who were sent there ever returned to France!
By Saturday March 23, the entire fleet had arrived in the beautiful Port Louis Marina, cleared in customs and begin to explore all that Grenada has to offer. The Grenada Tourism Authority and Digicel who generously offered fantastic welcome packs, which included many locally made speciality items and information about the island.
On Saturday morning World ARC participants set off on an island tour organized by Mr Mandoo. The tour included a trip through the city of St. George, up the west coast to the stunning Concord Waterfall, on to the Dougaldston Spice Boucan and lastly Fort Matthew.
Later that evening, The Marine and Yachting Association of Grenada (MAYAG) sponsored the Welcome Cocktail Party at the Grenada Yacht Club. The outdoor terrace overlooks the Port Louis Marina basin and provides a perfect spot to enjoy the sunset and a sundowner. Welcome speeches were given by James the Vice Commodore of Grenada Yacht Club and World ARC Event Manager Galen Salgado. Special thanks goes to: Karen Stiell from MAYAG and Chris and Chrystal from LTD Sailing.
The fleet then enjoyed a relaxing Sunday ahead of a busy week with activities.