After storms delayed the start of the Caribbean 1500, the 62 participating yachts have been steadily arriving at Nanny Cay Marina on Tortola.
At press time 25 yachts had docked and been given their welcome rum punch by new race organisers UK-based World Cruising Club. The World Cruising Club took on the rally from founder Steve Black and his Cruising Rally Association earlier this year and is looking to continue and expand on the success of the event.
The fastest boat to finish was Fat Cat, John Winter’s 24-metre Morelli, which completed the journey from Hampton VA in just under 6 days shortly followed by Blackbird, a Tripp 78 skippered by Michael Reardon.
“The start of the race was delayed by 4 days to avoid Tropical Storm Sean which was frustrating for everyone,” commented World Cruising Club organiser Andy Schell. “However, it was a sensible decision and we are very pleased that all the crews in both the Bahamas and BVI classes made a safe passage and are now enjoying the fun events and activities that have been laid on.”
For the first time, the arriving boats have been able to clear BVI Customs in Nanny Cay where previously they had to make an additional stop at Soper’s Hole.
“After sailing non-stop for ten days most crews are exhausted and looking forward to getting on dry land. With this in mind we were very pleased to partner with BVI Customs to bring them on-site,” said Nanny Cay general manager Miles Sutherland-Pilch. “This year we have a number of different events for all participants including beach BBQs and live music most nights. The feedback we have been getting is that everyone has been sharing stories and having a great time which is what the rally is all about.”
Nanny Cay hosts a number of World Cruising events – including ARC Europe and the Atlantic Cup in May. It is also the host of the BVI Spring Regatta and Sailing Festival, now in its 41st year. Nanny Cay Resort, Boatyard & Marina is located between Road Town and West End on Tortola in the British Virgin Islands. Its fully equipped marina and boat repair facility has berths for 180 motor cruisers and yachts and two boat lifts of 50 and 70 tons capacity. Nanny Cay also includes a 40-room hotel and new waterfront townhouses for purchase and rental, two restaurants, a chandlery, a small supermarket, shops and boutiques, a dive shop, a water sports center, free WiFi service, and a gym and spa.
