Tourism officials here are committed to enhancing local involvement in the Atlantic Rally for Cruisers (ARC), as this annual event continues to serve as a powerful economic engine for the country.
The island is set to host approximately 147 vessels and 1,300 participants from 38 different nationalities for the crucial anchor leg of the Atlantic crossing. Moreover, 234 yachts will sail from Gran Canaria to the Caribbean as part of the ARC and ARC+ rallies.
On Sunday, tourism officials and key stakeholders gathered for the traditional ARC Flotilla, officially signaling the start of this year’s global yachting spectacle. Louis Lewis, CEO of the Saint Lucia Tourism Authority (SLTA), underscored the importance of this event-not merely as a racing display but as a vital contributor to the nation’s economy.
He emphasised Saint Lucia’s unique offerings as a premier destination for sailors, tourists, and investors alike.
“This race is a cornerstone event for Saint Lucia and is crucial for the yachting and marine sector. It significantly boosts our tourism economy,” he stated.
Lewis pointed out that hundreds of sailors flock to the island annually during the ARC activities, with many choosing to extend their vacation. Some visitors have even invested in property on the island, such as villas, condos, and houses, returning frequently.
The SLTA official highlighted the event’s ‘family atmosphere’ as a unique draw and an essential factor in stimulating the local economy.
Integrating Saint Lucia’s vibrant culture into the activities is a strategic plan by the organizers to ensure guests enjoy a welcoming and memorable experience. The SLTA has rolled out new initiatives to enrich participants’ experiences.
“We are actively finding ways to provide greater visibility of what’s available to our participants,” said Lewis. The festivities feature cultural presentations, interactive activities, and entertainment at the Rodney Bay Marina, which serves as the event’s headquarters.
Following the success of last year’s event, a Fish Fry in Anse La Raye is also incorporated into the entertainment offerings.
But there has been a decline in local business participation in the Flotilla event since the post-Covid-19 pandemic. Notable local brands are less present than before.
In response to this decline Lewis said that the SLTA aimed “to restore robust participation, particularly from local businesses that were integral to the event’s success pre-pandemic.”
He added, “I am heartened by the number of sponsors returning. While we may not have the same level of sponsorship as in previous years, it’s encouraging to see renewed interest.”
Lewis urged locals to engage in the activities, stating, “We encourage everyone to come and experience the vibrant atmosphere that this occasion brings at year-end.”
Over the years, IGY Rodney Bay Marina has played a pivotal role in accommodating the fleet of sailors. Sean Devaux, General Manager of IGY Rodney, expressed satisfaction with the expertise, maintenance, and service provided by his team.
“This year is unique; we expect about 147 boats and over 900 participants, not including family arrivals,” he said.
Devaux emphasised Saint Lucia’s strategic position as a key player in the marine industry: “As a destination, we’re ideally located with excellent airlift and support services for boats, and we’re conveniently situated near Saint Vincent and the Grenadines and Martinique.”
The World Cruising Club (WCC) on Sunday, reported a record-breaking 45 multihulls were the first to cross the start line of ARC 2024, followed by the 11-strong IRC racing fleet at 12:45 and 83 cruising yachts at 13:00.
ARC weather expert Chris Tibbs explained that light southerly winds would change direction on Sunday. “Sailors will likely choose the classic route towards Cape Verde, with initially lighter winds on the rhum line to Saint Lucia,” Tibbs stated.
WCC managing director Paul Tetlow added, “The ARC is a marathon, not a sprint. Use these lighter conditions to settle into your routine and enjoy the experience.”
After two weeks of exceptional hospitality and support in the Canaries, most sailors will be at sea for up to 21 days, though racing yachts and some faster cruisers may have shorter timelines. The standing ARC record of 8 days and six hours, set in 2016 by Rambler 88 (USA), remains unbroken.
By Reginald Andrew