Musket Cove Marina host the World ARC 2019-20

There is a lovely sunset over the resort this evening as the World ARC 2019-20 fleet begin to gather in Musket Cove Marina © World Cruising

The World ARC are welcomed to Musket Cove Marina and Resort for the 10th year running. After a magical cruise through the beautiful Fijian Islands, the fleet has had the opportunity to enjoy the Marina and Resort facilities and partake in an array of fun activities organised by the World Cruising Club.

As the golden sun set in the background, proceedings began with welcome drinks on Smith's Island located just along from the pontoon. The evening included rum punch cocktails served on the lawn while participants recounted stories of their cruise through the idyllic islands of Fiji. To display our thanks on behalf of the fleet and the World Cruising Club, a World ARC poster signed by all the skippers was presented to the Marina Manager, Patrick Tuiqereqere, who, along with the World ARC manager, Stefano Palumbo, provided a few short words of thanks.

The evening concluded with an optional BBQ which was well attended by hungry participants many of whom had just arrived into Musket Cove earlier in the day. They were treated with a delicious and vast choice of meats, fish and salads all of which were eagerly consumed.

The programme continued early the following morning with a choice of an organised walk or run both of which took in the picturesque views of the turquoise reefs from the top of Malolo Island. A little later in in the morning, many others joined in the Beach Sports Fun Day which began with a highly competitive game of tug-o-war. Teams were made up of Monohull verses Multihull and after a mammoth pull, it was the Monohull team who took the victory. With energy levels raised high, it was time to turn the team's strength to the paddles with a kayak relay. This time the teams were made up of three groups, the ladies, the teenagers and the men. With a fast fight right to the finish line it was the Men who took first place. The final activity was a spirited game of volleyball which took place on the beautiful sandy beach overlooking the Marina. The teams were mixed, swapping around between each game and after an energetic hour's play, both teams were exhilarated and an active morning was thoroughly enjoyed by all.

The day rounded off with a spectacular Fijian Feast beautifully displayed on the beach in front of the resort restaurant and swimming pool. A whole pig was roasted and again a vast colourful choice of salads and vegetables were also served. During the evening a few short speeches were made. With the World ARC Blue Jacket still in play it was time for a new owner to be presented with this very special award. On behalf of Cassiopee W, previous custodians of the Blue Jacket who have now departed from the fleet, asked Gemma on Aurora B to award the Jacket on their behalf. Gemma read out a heartfelt message to the ongoing fleet and awarded the Blue Jacket to Joe on Charm for all his outstanding help to fix many engine issues and provide unconditional support to all the fleet.

Musket Cove have certainly made the fleet feel extremely welcome and everyone has appreciated all that this beautiful and friendly island has to offer.

Today sees the fleet prepare for their departure from Fiji and focus on the start of Leg 6 to Vanuatu which begins tomorrow morning, Saturday 12 July, at 1000 hours.