Jul 03 - 14th Annual Gibraltar-Morocco Rally Draws To A Close
This Monday saw the last of the Gibraltar-Morocco Rally participants cruise back into harbour after three days of adventure in Africa. The 34-boat flotilla enjoyed fair winds and a packed programme of activities with Ocean Village Marina as a proud sponsor.
Sandra Lamplough, Marketing Manager at Ocean Village, says, “We were happy to donate the use of Dusk Champagne Bar, as well as a few drinks and nibbles, for the skipper and crew briefing on Thursday evening. Likewise, we were equally delighted to offer a free night’s berthing in our Marina for all visiting yachts. I just hope they didn’t sample too much of our lively nightlife before setting off the morning after, or I can imagine there would have been some uncomfortable moments on the waves.”
From a starting line between the RAF runway centreline buoy and one of the Gibraltar Squadron patrol boats, the mix of motor and sailing yachts got underway on Friday 27 June at 1pm for their 25 nautical mile trip to Port Marina Smir. By Friday evening all were safely at anchor in the attractive North African port, a favourite with the King of Morocco, for a wine and cheese evening.
Saturday brought a fancy dress competition, a trip to the stunning nearby town of Tetouan with its famous ancient medina, and plenty of free time to explore Smir’s golden beaches and charming eateries. Evening time brought the event highlight, prize-giving, with more ‘sensible’ trophies (First Sailing Boat In – going to Songbird skippered by Andrew Beck, First Motor Boat In – going to Hawkwind skippered by Charles Scott and First Lady Skipper In – going to La Sirena Encantada skippered by the aptly named Michelle Hull) accompanied by more ‘colourful’ accolades such as Shadiest Character and Most Seasick Crew – a parasol and set of buckets were the prizes here.
The Gibraltar-Morocco Rally officially came to a close on Sunday with anchors aweigh for the return leg, although some chose to stay on and enjoy more Moroccan hospitality overnight.
Organisers Boatshed Gibraltar were thrilled with the fantastic sponsorship received for the event, from Ocean Village to Eroski, the Gibraltar Tourist Board to Gib Oil, and many, many more. Thanks to this support, they were able to donate all entrance money and proceeds from the sale of Rally t-shirts to the Red Cross.
(Pics: MeteoGib)
