Grenada, February 13, 2024 – The shores of Camper & Nicholson Port Louis Marina on the enchanting Caribbean island of Grenada have become the latest haven for the Viking Explorers Rally 2024 after meticulous preparations. Originating from Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Canary Islands, in December 2023, sailors embarked on an Atlantic crossing, setting sail on January 6th. A diverse international fleet, comprising 25 boats ranging from 34ft to 76ft and manned by 80 crews hailing from countries such as the Netherlands, United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand, Sweden, Germany, Switzerland, United States, Italy, Spain, Canada, Norway, Denmark, Ireland, and Latvia, commenced their journey toward the Cape Verde Islands.
Following a stopover at Marina Mindelo, the fleet charted a course of over 2000 miles across the Atlantic Ocean. The first vessel to grace Port Louis Marina after 13 days at sea was Sy Jalemar, a Fountaine Pajot Elba 45, under the command of Captain Jaqueline Henshall, marking a remarkable feat since departing from the Cape Verde Islands.
Upon arrival in Grenada, participants received a warm reception from the Grenada Tourism Authorities, Port Louis Marina, rally organizers, fellow sailors, and local friends, epitomizing the island’s renowned hospitality and affinity for sailing. The traditional rum punch and welcome basket from the Grenada Tourism Authority greeted the fleet upon arrival. Participants indulged in a week brimming with activities and excursions, immersing themselves in Grenada’s rich culture and natural splendor. Events such as guided tours organized by Budget Marine and Spice Island Marine Services, the Marina Village day hosted by Port Louis Marina, and a Beach Day courtesy of Mount Cinnamon resorts provided ample opportunities for exploration and celebration before the Welcome Ceremony. This year, as Grenada commemorated its 50th anniversary of Independence, participants and Viking Explorers staff experienced an unparalleled and unforgettable journey on a vibrant island adorned by the community.
The Welcome Ceremony held at True Blue Bay in Grenada for the Viking Explorers Rally 2024 resonated with lively maritime festivities, featuring indigenous music, local delicacies, and heartfelt speeches. Against the backdrop of the breathtaking Caribbean sunset, participants mingled, exchanging stories of their seafaring exploits, creating enduring memories.
Chinel Sandy of the Grenada Tourism Authority extended a warm welcome to all sailors for choosing Grenada as their port of call. Zara Tremlett, Marina Manager, echoed this sentiment before an emotional address by the rally director.
Participants took to the stage to receive certificates and tokens of appreciation, sharing sentiments with their fellow sailors. “We are honored to host the Viking Explorers Rally 2024 in Grenada for the fourth consecutive time. This rally embodies the adventurous spirit and camaraderie that define the sailing community and the ethos of our event. We are grateful to those who have entrusted us and our expertise for traversing the Atlantic Ocean with the Viking Explorers,” remarked Managing Director Oliver Solanas Heinrichs.
The engaging awards presentation highlighted various achievements, including:
Smallest boat: SY Lagertha, UFO 34 with LOA 10m
Largest boats: MY L’Adagio, B.Blond IV, Nordhavn 76, LOA 24m
Largest sailboat: MS Migaloo, Nordhavn 56, LOA 16m, 68cm
Youngest captain: Mathias Keilegavlen from SY Rosemarie, born in 1999
Oldest captain: Richard Aldridge, SY Tiny Dancer, born in 1954
Newest boat: SY Seaduction, Fountaine Pajot Saona 47, built in 2021
Oldest boat: SY Yulunga, Nautor Swan, built in 1976
The spirit of the Viking Explorers was encapsulated by Matthias Hedlund, captain of SY Manami II, for his support and camaraderie throughout the rally. Matthias, on stage, expressed gratitude to the organizers and reminisced about the song “Go West,” which he played upon the boats’ arrival, symbolizing the rally’s spirit of camaraderie.
A poignant moment unfolded as Camilla from SY Alba presented a basket brimming with products collected from the fleet, expressing appreciation for the team’s continuous support and warmth throughout the edition.
As per tradition, the rally concluded with a captivating “rally video” of the event, much to the delight of participants, complemented by the vibrant rhythms of a Steel Pan Band in authentic Caribbean style.
The Viking Explorers Rally, a non-competitive 2,700-nautical-mile sailing odyssey from the Canary Islands to Grenada via Cape Verde, has garnered widespread acclaim since its inception in 2018. With a maximum of 25 boats, the event emphasizes exceptional customer service, safety, and fostering camaraderie among participants.
For further details about The Viking Explorers Rally, please visit: https://www.vikingexplorersrally.com
