Local yachting enthusiasts and corporate representatives gathered aboard eight (8) to 10 boats to officially launch the 40th edition of the Atlantic Rally for Cruisers (ARC) extravaganza.
Simultaneously, over 800 sailors set sail from Gran Canaria as the flotilla fleet departed Castries Harbour, confidently navigating through choppy waters to enjoy excellent sailing conditions around Pigeon Point and into Rodney Bay Marina.
The ARC stands as a testament to seamanship, friendship, and cultural exchange, marking four decades of maritime celebration. Saint Lucia has proudly participated in this event for the past 37 years, known for creating a lively and sociable atmosphere.
On Sunday, international sailors aboard more than 100 boats departed Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, heading straight for Rodney Bay Marina.
At the event, the Saint Lucia Tourism Authority (SLTA) collaborated with Events Saint Lucia and World Cruising Club (WCC) to synchronize the local flotilla with the boats’ departure from Las Palmas.
During a media briefing held before the flotilla’s departure, stakeholders expressed gratitude for the unwavering support from corporate sponsors and media partners.
Peta Cozier of the WCC, an organizer of the ARC, emphasized her excitement for the event, having been part of the organization for a decade.
“This day represents the culmination of extensive preparation—months of hard work getting ready to sail 2,700 nautical miles to our destination of Saint Lucia,” said Cozier. “This year, as we celebrate the 40th edition, we are thrilled with the participation of 148 boats across three categories: the cruising division, the multi-hull division, and the IRC racing division.”
Cozier highlighted that in the IRC racing division, boats rely solely on ocean winds rather than engines. The diverse group of about 900 participants, ages 6 to 80 and hailing from eight different countries, showcases the spirit of global camaraderie this event fosters.
“This is a formidable networking opportunity that builds lifelong friendships and inspires new ideas. When they arrive here, they experience the joy, fun, and camaraderie that Saint Lucia has to offer,” she added.
Louis Lewis, CEO of the SLTA, affirmed the event’s significance, stating it is a signature occasion for the yachting sector. He noted the increased local participation in the flotilla, which aims to recapture the vibrant atmosphere it was known for.
Lewis also mentioned that with 900 participants expected, their friends and relatives will join them in Saint Lucia upon their arrival. “We have curated an exciting itinerary for the duration of their stay, ensuring meaningful activities from the first arrival to the last boat,” he explained.
Dexter Percil, SLTA director of global marketing, expressed appreciation for the numerous sponsors he prefers to call partners. This includes IGY Rodney Bay Marina, Community Tourism Agency, Heineken Saint Lucia (with Piton Beer), the Wave, Bank of Saint Lucia, Digicel, SIXT Car Rental, SOL, Events Saint Lucia, Massy Saint Lucia, and Angostura.
The flotilla, consisting of teams from Sol, the CTA, SLTA, BOSL, media outlets, and Rotary, then set sail from IGY Rodney Bay Marina to Castries Harbour and back.
The average yacht will complete the journey in 14 to 21 days, with the first boat anticipated to arrive in Saint Lucia by the first week of December.
R.A.