Viking Explorers Rally 2025 stopover at Marina Mindelo
by Oliver Solanas Heinrichs 21 Jan 2025 07:37 PST
6 January 2025
The Viking Explorers Rally 2025 fleet, set sail from Las Palmas de Gran Canaria on January 6th. The fleet of 22 boats embarked on the 850-mile voyage south to the Cape Verde Islands, which took between 4 to 8 days to complete under exceptional sailing conditions.
The fleet safely reached its first destination, Marina Mindelo, São Vicente, where they were warmly welcomed by Marlino from the Viking Explorers Team alongside the attentive marina staff. Marina Mindelo has been a vital partner of the Viking Explorers Rally since its inception, earning its reputation as a premier stopover for transatlantic crossings. Crews took advantage of this stop to carry out essential boat checks, replenish supplies, and relax while enjoying the vibrant local culture. This stage is especially valued by participants, as it allows them to assess their boats' performance after leaving the Canary Islands, ensuring they are well-prepared for the upcoming Atlantic crossing.
The first boat to arrive in Mindelo was Voy, a stunning Outremer 55 catamaran. Under the command of Captain Soren, accompanied by his wife Ugne, their children Kevin and Keira, and crew members Lucie, Diana, and Tiernan, Voy completed its journey in just under 5 days, arriving on January 11th at 5:40 a.m. They were also specially greeted by the marina staff and received a nice Welcome Basket. The rest of the fleet followed in the subsequent days, docking safely at Mindelo.
During their stay, sailors explored the lively streets and markets of Mindelo, immersing themselves in the island's rich cultural heritage. Some ventured to the neighboring island of Santo Antão, renowned for its dramatic landscapes, verdant valleys, and striking contrast to São Vicente's more arid terrain. These excursions provided sailors with a refreshing break and memorable experiences before embarking on the next leg of their journey.
A key highlight of the stopover was the much-anticipated Welcome Party at the marina's iconic floating bar. Organized by Marina Mindelo, the event featured music, food, and drinks in true Cape Verdean style. Marina Manager Jackie Gomes and her assistant, Ivanice Estevão, personally greeted the participants, creating a warm and festive atmosphere that left a lasting impression on the sailors. The evening became a joyous celebration, with participants sharing their experiences of the first 850 miles and bonding over their shared love of sailing.
As planned, the fleet resumed its journey on the morning of January 17th. Having enjoyed a few days of Cape Verdean hospitality and completed final preparations, the sailors were ready for the challenges ahead. Two days prior to departure, a weather webinar provided by the organizers forecasted strong trade winds in the 20-knot range, offering ideal conditions for the fleet's Atlantic crossing. Following Viking Explorers' tradition of prioritizing safety and prudent seamanship, captains together with the organization decided to stick to the schedule.
The fleet is expected to arrive at its final destination, Port Louis Marina in Grenada, by the end of January, completing the 2,700-nautical-mile adventure. A whole week of activities and the Welcome Ceremony at the True Blue Bay Resort is awaiting them.
Since its launch in 2018, the Viking Explorers Rally has become a standout event in the sailing community. Known for its non-competitive approach, the rally is limited to 25 boats, offering participants a personalized and unique experience. Safety, camaraderie, and exceptional service are at the core of the event's philosophy. The route, from the Canary Islands to Grenada via Cape Verde, provides an unforgettable blend of adventure, culture, and natural beauty. For sailors seeking an extraordinary Atlantic crossing, the Viking Explorers Rally remains an attractive alternative.
For more photos and information about The Viking Explorers Rally, please visit: www.vikingexplorersrally.com