So around 1045 on Thursday 13th December 2018 we crossed the finish line of the ARC 2018. The last few miles were sailed at a good pace with Gitana picking up her heels as the land breeze filled in and we climbed higher and higher on the breeze towards the finish line. We had a last minute tack to cross the line after causing a scare at the committee boat end. After the finish line we had to head for some sea room to sort out the propeller issue we had encountered in the last few days of the rally. With this sorted we motored into the marina under our own steam to be treated with the first rum punch and a Caribbean an welcome.
The first few days in Rodney bay were intense a constant vibe of people finishing a lifetime challenge and celebrating into the small hours. We caught up on war stories with our new friends from the Canaries and discussed our future cruising plans.
So first thing Monday morning after the OCC pontoon party we slipped away and headed for Marigot Bay a marina come hotel resort which has Mooring bouts in a small natural harbour where the berthing fees allow full use of the hotel facilities. The next two days had us swimming off the back of the boat, taking on a small snorkelling expedition from the dinghy and at last some quality RNR.
After two nights at Marigot we headed for Anse Le Raye a small fishing village with an anchorage, the first time in months that we are at rest and are the only boat in the anchorage / Mooring. It is now dark and there is only the background noise of the waves on the shore and crickets in the trees, also the odd car going up the coast road and the quiet background music from the beach bar ashore, which must also be supplying the BBQ smells.
Tomorrow we will head back to the hustle and bustle of Rodney Bay for our first crew change and resupply so we can then head south for Christmas.
Doodle Ventures 