Saint Lucia is set to host the 41st edition of the Atlantic Rally for Cruisers (ARC), welcoming more than 700 sailors to the island. This unique global sporting event signifies a major milestone in the island’s maritime tourism calendar, showcasing its upgraded facilities, enhanced safety measures, and vibrant cultural festivities planned for visiting yachtsmen.
As a premier destination for bluewater sailors, Saint Lucia is committed to sustainability, hospitality, and exceptional onboard experiences, effectively positioning itself as a key stop on the ARC route. This event is anticipated to invigorate local economies and reinforce global connections within the cruising community.
During an engaging media launch held at A’ila Resorts on Wednesday, key stakeholders and sponsors took part in a candid panel discussion, sharing updates on this highly-anticipated global sports event that adds excitement to the festive season. This year’s ARC focuses on celebrating the remarkable achievements of sailors as they embark on their Atlantic crossing.
In addition, an enticing promotional campaign invites visitors to explore the island’s rich cultural diversity and stunning landscapes. A total of 125 yachts are slated to participate in this year’s ARC, featuring a range of vessels from a 10-meter yacht from Slovenia to the impressive 31-meter Sorceress.
During the vibrant media launch, the World Cruising Club (WCC) team joined live discussions from Las Palmas, providing an exclusive first look at the fleet. This year, 730 crew members representing 31 nations will join the event, with sailors from Thailand, Costa Rica, and Peru among the less familiar flags in this year’s lineup. Notably, fifteen crew members are under 16 years old, while the eldest participant is 80.
Paul Tetlow, WCC’s Managing Director, shared that crews have begun registering their boats at Las Palmas in Gran Canaria and are doing so with enthusiasm.
A flag ceremony is scheduled for Sunday, where crew members will parade around Las Palmas showcasing their respective national flags as they prepare for the 2,700-nautical-mile crossing to Saint Lucia, the final destination.
This ARC season, the Community Tourism Agency (CTA) is thrilled to join the festivities, offering six unique experiences across Canaries, Dennery, Soufrière, and Micoud to all participants. The CTA invites participants to “come hungry for a taste of Saint Lucian cuisine, select an adventure to share with a partner, or bring the whole family for a memorable day out. A warm welcome awaits you in each community.”
Among the esteemed sponsors is A’ila Resorts Villas Residences, making its debut as a Platinum Sponsor. The management and staff are excited to be part of this grand event. Ersin Pamuksuzer, Founder of The Life Co at A’ila Resorts and a yachting enthusiast with over 30 years of sailing experience, emphasized the facility’s reputation for offering a holistic approach to wellness.
He remarked, “We touch every corner of life … we make you feel rejuvenated, and you will be well taken care of.”
Looking forward to welcoming visitors after their strenuous sea journey, Pamuksuzer added, “A’ila and Life Co will be significant partners of the ARC… because ultimately, when it comes down to peace and relaxation, we will be able to provide all of this.”
In summary, John Paul Estaphane, Minister in the Ministry of Tourism and Creative Industries, noted that the government proudly embraces “the rich legacy of the ARC.” He highlighted the economic benefits and promotional opportunities for the destination arising from the event, stating, “It allows us to connect with the international sailing community and provides us with an opportunity to showcase Saint Lucia as a beautiful tourism destination.”