Date: Wednesday, 15 December [20:30 UTC]

 

*** Note *** Not sent until Thursday morning due to satellite phone issues on Wednesday.

 

‘Ocean Hobo’ crossed the finishing line at Rodney Bay at 15:40 local time (-4 UTC). We had to beat across the line whilst enjoying fantastic views of Rodney Bay as we got closer to the entrance to the extensive Marina Complex.

 

Upon our arrival into the Marina, those yachts that had already completed the race (most of them!) sounded their horns in recognition of our achievement. On tying up at our allotted berth, we were welcomed by the ARC arrivals committee to the sound of a Steel band. Bags of ‘goodies’ were presented to Skipper Ivan in addition to a tray of beautifully chilled rum punches and a six-pack of beer! (needless to say that they didn’t last too long!!!!)

 

We have arrived!

 

Since departing Las Palmas on Sunday 21st November, we have sailed a total (including 70 hours of motoring) 3042 nautical miles. We have spent 24 days at sea (including a 4-hour stop-over for fuel in Cape Verdes). We haven’t received our final position in the race as yet, but aren’t too worried where we end up to be honest.

 

We have seen flying fish (big and small), whales, dolphins, sea turtles and the occasional sea bird en-route. We have experienced the most fantastic night skies that you could imagine: an astronomers paradise! After a period of initial calm weather, we experienced the true ‘trade winds’ which are quite unbelievable: sailing for days on the same tack and sail plan without having to alter anything – unreal!

 

We have enjoyed the adventure and look forward to the next one – whatever that may be!

 

The Skipper and crew of ‘Ocean Hobo’ have enjoyed your company throughout our adventure and we hope that our daily ‘blogs’ have provided some interest and entertainment to everyone at home (albeit around the world!). The creation of the ‘blog’ has been a daily activity on-board, but never a chore.

 

With kind regards,

 

Skipper Ivan Campbell and the crew:

• Charles Grossie
• Mike Attwood
• Dr Joe Gaston
• Jimmy Dempsey
• Dermot Gordon