The Tribune

ADULT and junior Bahamas Sailing Association members and their families were afforded a unique opportunity to sail a 70-foot Volvo Ocean Racer.

The “True North”, which competed in the 2008-2009 Around the World Ocean Race, visited Nassau earlier this month as part of a tour to promote Dubai as a candidate city for the 2020 World Expo.

The local sailing aficionados had the opportunity to spend two and a half hours onboard the vessel, taking turns ‘trimming’ and ‘helming’.

With a wonderfully bright and gusty day, wind speeds were up to 22 knots ensuring that all on board could fully appreciate the capabilities of this ultra modern sail boat. The crew members were very enthusiastic to show off their vessel and encouraged sailors as young as 8 years old to take command and steer the 70-foot Ocean Racer and get a taste of what it would be like on the high seas behind the wheel of a boat of this size and magnitude.

Young sailors especially were awestruck and felt inspired by the opportunity that they were given. Some sailors were lucky enough to reach speeds of 20 knots and were amazed at the power they were able to command at the helm.

Even when most of the people onboard were soaked by the massive spray coming over bow as the boat sliced through the ocean waves, laughter followed and everyone was positively exhilarated by the combination of wind speed and saltwater rinses.

Robert Dunkley of the BSA arranged for 46 of their members to participate in order to give them the chance to gain a full sailing experience that diversifies from the smaller craft the sailors are used to.

A further trip has been organised exclusively for some of the Bahamas’ top young sailors to ensure they have more time on the water and exposure to the sailing conditions a boat of this size can offer.

Robert expressed his gratitude to the welcoming crew of “True North” and their commitment to allowing adult and young sailors to share in this wonderful sailing experience.