Week two is hotting up in Las Palmas for ARC 2018
by World Cruising Club 20 Nov 2018 23:57 UTC
20 November 2018
2018 ARC - Sundowner Admiral FlippedForBranding © World Cruising
There is a hive of activity around the marina in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria today. With the majority of all 174 boats taking part in this year's ARC 2018 checked-in, boat preparations and the extensive programme of events is now in full swing.
The first of two crew suppers, for boat names starting with letter A-L, took place at Restaurant Embarcadero last night. Over 100 crew members enjoyed a local fayre including papas arugardas (a very traditional dish here in the Canaries of small potatoes boiled in salted water served with a chili pepper garlic sauce called mojo mojo), fresh anchovies, roast duck leg and ice cream with palm honey, delicious! There was a great atmosphere with crews having the opportunity to chat the night away with fellow sailors swapping stories and experiences. This was the start of many social events for 2 crews of the 34 yachts going on to take part in World ARC 2019. Helmut and Barbara of Babsea and Glen and Mary from Danica I both had a great evening and it was an excellent chance to get to know one another in advance of the exciting 15 month circumnavigation that awaits.
The start of week two's ARC sundowners also took place yesterday evening. The bar staff were on full speed providing draft beers, wines and soft drinks so the evening was a roaring success for everyone, including a lot of new faces who have flown in to join crews over the weekend. Monday's Sundowner was sponsored by Admiral Marine Insurance who have been supporting rally participants since 1991. As crews enjoyed a beer of two, Admiral's Robert Holbrook introduced James Woollam from Hayes Parsons, and said a few words to welcome to wish crews all the best for their crossing. As part of their service for ARC participants Admiral Marine Insurance include a complimentary rig check from Jerry 'The Rigger' Henwood for their clients and have been assisting with any boat insurance queries, providing advice on must-see Caribbean destinations and safe havens for next year's hurricane season.
The highly popular seminars commenced today at Club Metropole to include Rigging, Management of Emergencies, ARC Communications, Provisioning and Downwind Sailing. Having a wealth of knowledge and many years of blue water experience, the ARC speakers provide both skippers and crew with a multitude of top tips and share invaluable advice assisting them with their preparation for the ARC crossing.
The Crew Supper, for boat names starting with letter M-Z, takes place this evening, again in Restaurant Embarcadero and with the success of last night's dinner, it's expected to be another well-attended and lively event.
Looking ahead to tomorrow and with great excitement, the ARC team look forward to welcoming everyone to the 'A Night in Rio' Costume Party at the Sotavento Club from 20:00. ARC participants will enjoy a welcome drink, live entertainment, sweet treats and prizes will be awarded for the best costumes!