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A 900-mile crossing disrupted by a lack of trade winds
Having set out on October 30 from Morro Jable, on the island of Fuerteventura, the participants took between six and eight days to reach Mindelo, on the Cape Verdean island of São Vicente.
This first leg, covering about 900 miles, was intended to give the crews a chance to find their footing before the long Atlantic crossing. But the expected tailwinds often failed to materialize.
The boats alternated between sailing, periods of calm, and motoring. The last few days brought stronger winds, allowing the fleet to complete its journey to Cape Verde.
Crews forced to adjust their navigation
Reports from the boats illustrate the difficulties they encountered. Aboard the Turkooise, the crew recorded an apparent wind speed of only 3 knots while sailing downwind before deciding to finish the leg under engine power. They estimate that it took them about 38 hours longer than on their previous crossing of this route.
On Tiki, the return of a northeast wind blowing at 10 to 14 knots finally made it possible to hoist the Parasailor, a downwind sail, and sail all night without using the engine.
These conditions serve as a reminder that even a route known for favorable downwind conditions does not guarantee steady progress. For recreational boaters, managing fuel, supplies, and arrival times remains essential, even on an organized crossing.
Mutual assistance among boats also plays a role
Beyond the weather, this first leg highlighted the benefits of sailing as part of a flotilla.
Faced with an engine problem, the Surcouf?s crew was able to count on the help of other participants. The Pelican had the necessary part, while a plan to have it shipped via the Mavokely was being considered to avoid using spare parts from another boat.
This episode illustrates one of the practical benefits of this type of rally: having a network of teams that can share equipment or technical solutions during stops.
Mindelo, the last stop before Guadeloupe
The 20 sailboats are now all gathered at Marina Mindelo. The stopover will give the crews a chance to rest, check their equipment, and explore São Vicente and the neighboring island of Santo Antão.
The second leg is scheduled to begin on Wednesday, November 11, with the destination being Saint-Louis Bay on Marie-Galante.
Arrivals in Guadeloupe are expected between November 23 and 27, weather permitting.
After an initial leg hampered by a lack of steady wind, the crews will have to prepare for a significantly longer crossing. The key challenge will be to find sufficiently consistent downwind conditions to limit the use of the engine and preserve the boats? range.
