World ARC 2023-24 in The Kingdom of Tonga
by World Cruising Club 11 Jun 2023 08:32 BST
After a bumpy trip across from Niue to the Kingdom of Tonga, the World ARC 2023-24 fleet are fully regrouped in Nieafu, the centre town of the Vava'U Island group. Over the past week the fleet have been filing through the Nieafu customs dock to begin their time exploring the rich beaches, caves and local culture that is in the island group.
Highlights so far have included Swallows Cave, Mariners Cave and the World ARC Tour to the Botanical Gardens and Enei'o Beach. A staple on the programme, the Botanical Gardens are always a special visit and never stops impressing fleets as they pass during their adventures. Now that the fleet has regrouped, the Fiji skippers briefing was delivered at the Kraken Restaurant and Bar to provide the necessary information for the weeks ahead.
To round off Leg 5 of the Circumnavigators journey, a great prize-giving meal was hosted by WCC at the Mango Restaurant. Newly reopened to begin the season, the night was enjoyed by all and featured some wonderful locally handcrafted prizes.
In the coming days the fleet are set to continue their journey West as they make their way to the shores of Fiji. They will enjoy a free cruising period ahead of the rendezvous in Musket Cove at the start of July.