Mediterranean International Rally 2024

AvRM organized a rally in the Mediterranean, more precisely between Porquerolles and the La Maddalena Archipelago from May 29 to June 8, 2024.

Five boats participated, including 1 RM 890, 1 RM 1050, 2 RM 1070s and 1 RM 1200

The Course

The gathering was scheduled for Porquerolles on the 29th, but as the four boats departing from the mainland coast were already there two days earlier, and with the weather forecast predicting deteriorating conditions, it was collectively decided during an initial get-together to move the crossing to Corsica forward to May 29th.

So we crossed over to Cargèse, on a broad reach after a few hours under engine power.

Thursday, May 30

In Cargese, Mattéo Rossi, a former prominent member of AvRM, joins our seafood pot with his hands full of excellent Corsican products!

Friday, May 31

The defining characteristic of Corsica's west coast is its exposure… to the west! A strong tramontane wind in the Gulf of Lion generates very pleasant winds for sailing, but also a heavy swell that makes anchorages unusable. So we take refuge in Ajaccio, where we meet up with Mate, Mario's RM 890. The rally, now complete, takes on an international dimension. A celebratory drink is definitely in order!

Saturday, June 1st

With the swell subsiding, the next stop is Porto Pollo, moored to buoys. Since not all the boats have yet inflated their dinghies, a post-lunch drink is organized on Rocking Chair.

Sunday, June 2nd

The fleet is carrying out "performance comparisons..." up to Figari, the last port of supply before La Maddalena.

The port is next to the "Corse Sud" airport, and Estelle, Florence and Luce join us; it's an opportunity for a seafood potluck with excellent sangria prepared by Rêve de Mer.

Monday, June 3

The crossing of the Strait of Bonifacio is done on a broad reach, with a steady 25-knot wind (but in the Mediterranean, the wind is never steady, there are always gusts…), and speeds exceeding 10 knots. Mate (RM 890) under gennaker is thoroughly enjoying herself and isn't letting up!

June 4, 5 and 6

From anchorage to anchorage, all superb, from island to island, from sea pot to…, the rally multiplies speed comparisons, tactical options… The playing field is worth it!

Friday, June 7

Another crossing of the Strait of Dover (under spinnaker)

Lunch stop at anchor in the Lavezzi Islands (accessible only in clear weather)

And that's the end of the rally in the superb setting of the port of Bonifacio, where the seafood pot is replaced by the closing dinner in a restaurant specializing in Corsican cuisine (figs, chestnuts and wild boar on the menu!).

Conclusion

The 2024 edition was as convivial as ever, with particularly favorable weather (the exceptionally present wind significantly reduced consumption, at least of fuel).

Despite the differences in generation and size of the boats, the arrivals were always close (no doubt due to the lure of the sea pots), and the navigations in the channels between the islands were often fierce!

People of all nationalities, French, Italians, Sardinians, Bretons, Charentais, Béarnais, Auvergnats (Catalan style), Lombards… gathered around the RM and the pots of the sea!