The first of 79 boats participating in the 2015 fall Salty Dawg Rally™ are now on their way to Virgin Gorda in the British Virgin Islands and other Caribbean destinations. The experienced blue water sailors, some with 12 or more passages to the Caribbean from the U.S., many with ocean crossings under their keels and crews with circumnavigation experience, departed today from Hampton, Virginia, and other points along the U.S. east coast. Most will arrive at their initial destinations within the next few weeks.
The fleet ranges in size from 34 to 70 feet and includes boats from the USA, Canada, the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, New Zealand and Switzerland.
With an emphasis on safety, communication and camaraderie, over 390 boats and more than 1560 sailors have participated in the free Salty Dawg rallies since the nonprofit organization was founded by blue water sailors Bill and Linda Knowles in 2011.
The Fall Rally included extensive planning and information prior to departure. Daily briefings by weather router and forecaster Chris Parker are provided to all who register, both before departure and offshore. Daily nets track location of vessels and offer help on any issues or questions that participants have. The Rally is able to provide this extensive range of support and services at no cost to participants due to the many seasoned blue water sailors who volunteer their time to staff the rally and the generous donated time, products, services and funds from over 40 sponsors.
For more information about the Fall 2015 Salty Dawg Rally here.
