William and Jade Barnes on White Ibis – Credit Sönke Roever
Despite over 2000 miles of ocean to cross, British yacht White Ibis timed their arrival to Barbados perfectly, docking in the Barbados 50 marina on the morning of the island’s 50th anniversary of independence.
Former Bristol residents William and Jade Barnes joined the sailing rally in the UK some four months previously, having done very little bluewater sailing until then. The concept of the rally to celebrate Barbados 50 inspired them to join and make the thousands of miles trip, gaining valuable experience along the way.
The new arrivals receive a warm welcome from fellow rally participants already docked at the Barbados 50 marina – Credit Sönke Roever
Shortly after the start from Mindelo in the Cape Verde Islands on 9 November, White Ibis had to turn around and fight its way against the prevailing winds. They had suffered several breakages, none of them serious, but still had to be dealt with before the long crossing of the Atlantic. After two days of working in Mindelo Marina, they set off again on 11 November and made a relatively fast passage in spite of the light and often absent trade winds.
Although torrential rain forced the planned celebrations to be postponed yesterday, this evening islanders and visitors alike can look forward to the unveiling of the new Independence Monument followed by an epic concert, headlined, so we are told, by one of Barbados’ most treasured daughters, the pop star Rhianna.
- View the list of arrivals
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Barbados 50 is sponsored by Barbados Tourism Marketing and Tenerife Port Authority.
