World ARC 2022-23 Leg 15 South Africa to Brazil - Start
by World Cruising Club 7 Jan 2023 21:34 UTC
2022-23 World ARC Leg 15 © World Cruising Club
The World ARC 2022-23 fleet today set sail from Cape Town, South Africa, embarking on a journey to Salvador via Namibia and Saint Helena. This leg will be a truly unforgettable experience, with the breath-taking beauty of the South African coastline serving as a stunning backdrop for the voyage.
All the crews met in Cape Town, at La Parada, on the 5th for the Farewell Evening and then the day after Immigration and Custom clearances out of the country in the morning and the skipper Briefing in the afternoon were the last appointments of the stopover before the start.
As the yachts made their way out of the harbour and into the open ocean, with the iconic Table Mountain serving as a backdrop, excitement and anticipation filled the air.
Namibia for the first time is an official stopover of the Word, ARC Rally: the rugged, untamed beauty of the Namibian coast is truly something to behold, and the participants will have the chance to explore the sandy beaches, towering dunes, and unique wildlife that the country has to offer.
After Walvis Bay, the fleet will head to Saint Helena, a place not to miss!
One of the biggest draws of Saint Helena is its stunning natural beauty. The island is home to a variety of landscapes, including rugged cliffs, sandy beaches, and dense forests. It's also a great place for whale watching, as the waters around the island are home to several species of whales and dolphins.
In addition to its natural beauty, Saint Helena has a rich history and culture. The island was an important stopover for ships in the 19th century, and as a result, it has a mix of British, African, and Asian influences. There are several historic landmarks to visit, including Napoleonic-era forts and Napoleonic sites of interest on the island like Longwood House, the residence of Napoleon Bonaparte during his exile on Saint Helena and Sane Valley the site where Napoleon was buried after his death on the island. His grave can still be visited today.