Oman Sail’s giant racing trimaran, the ‘Musandam’ docked on the 18th October in Port Sultan Qaboos after a voyage of nearly 15,000 kilometres from Cowes in the UK. The 75 foot boat caused a considerable stir among both residents and visitors on the Corniche as she tied up at the ROP quay to a vociferous welcome from team mates, well wishers, family and friends.
The tired but jubilant crew stepped ashore after over a month at sea, and were welcomed with bouquets of flowers presented by Omani children in traditional dress. Asked how he felt at arriving home Mohammed al Obaidani replied; “It’s just wonderful. We were thrilled to cross into Omani territorial waters, but the lack of winds on our journey North was very frustrating. Each time conditions changed we revised our possible arrival time and it wasn’t until we were near Sur that we began to realize we would finally be home today.
For the newcomers to Oman there was both elation and appreciation. Skipper Loik Gallon said; “I loved sailing up Oman’s stunning coasts and its fantastic to be here and get such a welcome. I would really like to thank the Royal Navy of Oman warship which is also named Musandam for meeting us at the Bab al Mendeb and escorting us North. It was great to have them sailing with us. The Air Force also came out to check up on us, and of course our thanks go to the Royal Oman Police Coastguard for their warm welcome today and all the considerable help they have given us.”
Abdullah al Busaidi added; “ It’s great to be home. There is so much to tell about the voyage. I am glad I took lots of photographs, it’s the only real way to communicate to my family what it was like.”Mohsin al Busaidi, when asked what he missed most said, “My family of course, but there were little things, like Qahwa for example. Many times when I was tired, especially when on watch at night, I thought about how nice it would be to sip just one small cup of it.”
The Musandam will shortly be taken out of the water for a full inspection and servicing, and Oman Sail will be announcing some very exciting future plan for her at their official launch party at the Bustan Palace Hotel on 2 December.
