A taste of Uruguay

A lasting memory of the stopover in Punta del Este will be the warmth of the welcome and hospitality shown to the crew throughout the duration of their time in Punta del Este. Each crew member was made an honorary member of the Yacht Club, with the Sailors’ bar a focal point for race crew to enjoy some well-earned food and drink and time with their supporters. The Yacht Club also provided attachés for each of the Clipper Race teams, all of whom are members of the Yacht Club themselves and volunteered to have their position. They were on call and available to the crew at all times and were incredibly helpful, providing a familiar face to crew members and always there to help with a smile on their face.

A highlight of the stopover was, without doubt, the Welcome Asado that was organised by the Mayor of Maldonado and open to all Clipper Race crew members, supporters and Race Officials. Held in the stunning surroundings of the Fundación Pablo Atchugarry Sculpture Park everyone enjoyed a spectacular barbecue and buffet lunch, with live music played by the regional band to accompany the food and sunshine. It’s safe to say a great time was had by all.

Race Crew and Supporters were also treated to tourist bus tours, taking those keen to explore more of Punta del Este and the region of Maldonado along the impressive coastline, taking in sights such as La Mano de Punta, a sculpture depicting five human fingers emerging from the sand.

Another well-received expedition was the Garzon wine tasting and winery tour. The Garzon site recently won the New World Winery of the Year Award and boasts an impressive, contemporary building with a large vineyard that is rapidly increasing in size. Everyone who attended was amazed by the experience, and of course thoroughly enjoyed the wine they were able to sample.