THE fourth annual Multihull Solutions Whitsunday Rendezvous from September 1-7, has been labelled “an overwhelming success” with an enthusiastic contingent of boats and their crews taking part.
Perfect spring weather greeted the participants who were treated to the best of the Whitsundays including breathtaking displays by frolicking whales and their calves.
This year’s Rendezvous welcome and briefing function was held at the Coral Sea Resort in Airlie Beach, where participants quickly became acquainted over sunset canapés and drinks. Eager to embark on their experience, the crews set off on day two to glittering calm waters and a gentle 10 knots of breeze.
Day three encompassed a speedy sail from Macona Inlet on Hook Island to Cid Harbour on the west coast of Whitsunday Island, where participants enjoyed a relaxed lunch before continuing onto Hamilton Island. That evening was described as one of the highlights of the event, with a party on the Keel Deck at the Hamilton Island Yacht Club.
With the group slow to get started the following morning, a relaxed agenda was set and the fleet cruised to beautiful Whitehaven Beach. A re-energising walk up Hill Inlet from Betty’s Beach got everyone in the mood for the evening’s famous prawn and punch party and figurehead competition, which continue to be among the most memorable components of each year’s Rendezvous.
Next was a great sail south to Plantation Bay on Lindeman Island where a host of hilarious beach games were contested, fuelled by more sunset nibbles and drinks.
The final day of the Rendezvous started on a relaxing note before the fleet eventually set sail for Happy Bay on Long Island for the crazy hat-themed presentation dinner.
Competition was tough but the crew of Blue Spirit, a Lightwave 45, took out the honours with their extravagant home-made designs, and were awarded an accommodation voucher from the Cape Gloucester Eco Resort.
The overall winners of the event, decided on for the best displays of fun, effort and participation throughout the week, were the crew of the Seawind 1160, Phase 2.
Funds were also raised during the Rendezvous for Multihull Solutions’ preferred charity ‘OceansWatch’ that is committed to preserving the world’s waterways.
There were long faces all round as the Rendezvous finished but solid plans were already being made for the 2015 event.
For more information visit http://www.multihullsolutions.com.au/events/2014-whitsunday-rendezvous.