Atlantic Rally for Cruisers

The Atlantic Rally for Cruisers (ARC) is one of the world’s most iconic sailing events — a “must-do” for cruising sailors and adventurers alike. Held annually, this epic rally attracts over 200 boats and 1,200 sailors from around the globe to sail 2,700 nautical miles across the Atlantic Ocean, from Las Palmas de Gran Canaria to Rodney Bay in Saint Lucia.

Whether you’re a seasoned offshore yachtsman or taking on your first ocean passage, the ARC offers an extraordinary opportunity to cross the Atlantic in the safety and camaraderie of a large, well-supported fleet. Originally conceived as a way to make long-distance sailing safer and more enjoyable, the ARC has grown into the largest trans-ocean sailing event in the world.

Why Sail the ARC?

• Trade Wind Route: The ARC follows the traditional trade wind route, taking advantage of reliable easterly winds for ideal downwind sailing conditions. Expect the classic Atlantic crossing experience — wind on the quarter, rolling ocean swells, and endless sunsets.
• Safety and Support: The ARC is professionally organised by World Cruising Club, with safety checks, weather routing, a daily SSB radio net, and a full support team on hand both before departure and on arrival.
• Sense of Achievement: Crossing an ocean under sail is a major achievement. Completing the ARC is a genuine bucket list adventure and a life-changing experience for many sailors.

More Than Just a Sailing Event

What sets the ARC apart is the sense of community. In the two weeks leading up to departure, Las Palmas transforms into a buzzing hub of activity. Crews enjoy a full shore-based programme, including:
• Safety seminars and technical briefings
• Crew parties and social events
• Kids’ activities and family-friendly fun
• Opportunities to meet other crews and form lasting friendships

Once at sea, daily position reports, radio check-ins, and shared experiences keep the ARC community connected, even while spread across thousands of miles of open ocean.

Finishing in Paradise

After two to three weeks at sea, the fleet makes landfall in Saint Lucia, where warm Caribbean welcomes, steel drums, ice-cold beer, and celebratory rum punches await. The arrival dock at Rodney Bay Marina becomes a celebration zone — a place where dreams have been realised and lifelong memories made. Whether you’re sailing double-handed, with family, friends, or joining a crewed charter yacht, the ARC is more than a transatlantic crossing — it’s a shared adventure filled with purpose, pride, and passion for the sea.

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