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70 racers take part in 2017 Fremantle to Bali Ocean Classic
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Sunset in Benoa Harbor, Bali. (Shutterstock/File)
T
he 2017 Fremantle to Bali Ocean Classic, a yacht race starting in Fremantle and ending in Benoa Harbor in Bali, has provided an economic boost to Bali.
Seventy racers who brought along 52 family members participated in the event.
Racing yachts typically cost more than rally yachts, which carry three crew members who spend around US$123 per day. Some yachters stay for three to six months in Indonesia, visiting areas as Labuan Bajo, Tual and the Anambas Islands.
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Those who wish to extend their holiday can apply for a social-cultural visa, which grants a stay permit for up to six months.
“The services have been improved. You can just go to yachters-indonesia.id, fill out the form and you can enter Indonesia,” said Principal Race Officer Bernie Kaaks.
However, still lacking is a one-stop destination for customs, immigration and quarantine and a 24-hour service for yachters during the race, which is important considering that not all participants reach the finish line at the same time.
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Meanwhile, yacht owner Garth Curran expressed hope for the addition of exit zones and sailing routes.
“My friends and I initially wanted to go to Labuan Bajo to see Komodo dragons. However, there is not an exit point there. The nearest one is located in Kupang and this is a problem for us because to go there we have to sail against the wind, which is impossible. Another thing, Indonesia needs to create a sailing route as guidance for yachters to sail in the safe zone,” said Curran. (asw)
