USA Rally 2001

The idea for the event was suggested by skippers at the end of the Club’s very successful Trade Winds Round the World Cruising Rally 1995/7. The new Rally will be founded on this proven formula and will capitalise on the experience gained then.

Participants must be members of the Royal Air Force Yacht Club (or one of the other Clubs supporting the event) and a warm invitation to join is extended by the Club subject to the usual formalities. The usual Entrance Fee will be waived. The RAFYC is no longer restricted to service personnel and nowadays less than 20% of members have a service background.

A Cruising Rally - no racing

True to the ideals of cruising there will be no racing. Just the fun and sometimes excitement of an ocean passage and the delight of exploring colourful harbours and tranquil anchorages off the beaten track

One year or two?

The organisers anticipate that most of the fleet will wish to return to Europe via the Azores during the late summer of 2002.

Pre departure activity

Periodical get togethers and seminars were held at the RAFYC, Hamble. Primarily social occasions to enable participants to get to know one another before the start, the programme included instructional seminars and opportunities to discuss matters of topical interest.

Apres Rally

All of the participants made new and life long friends during the Trade Winds Round the World Rally and the Tradewinders still meet regularly twice a year at the RAFYC and elsewhere to reminisce and renew old acquaintances. The new event specifically aims to foster the same camaraderie.

The Route

The outline itinerary gives the timetable for the event.

For costs and other essential information go here.

Trade Winds Cruising Rallies Ltd., RAFYC, Riverside House, Rope Walk, Hamble, Southampton SO31 4HD. ENGLAND
Telephone: +44(0)23 8045 2208 Fax: +44(0)23 8045 8001