39th edition of Atlantic Rally for cruisers set to kick off with enthusiasts from 35 nations

The 39^th edition of the Atlantic Rally for Cruisers is all set to be hosted on Sunday, 24^th November, 2024. This rally will bring sailors, adventurers and ocean enthusiasts from around 35 nations together to sail across the Atlantic and make this celebration unforgettable.

As per the details, the vessels will firstly depart from Castries Harbour at 10:00 am to Pigeon Island, celebrating the start of the ARC in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria. All the captain of the vessels has been asked to follow the lead ARC Committee Boat at 5-6 knots. The vessels will later arrive at Rodney Bay (near Bay Gardens) by 11:00 am.

After reaching Rodney Bay, all the vessels will create a vibrant display, making a full circle in the bay, offering a beautiful visual experience for all the attendees. All the cruises participating in the rally will showcase their company/sponsor branded colours along the coast from Reduit to Pigeon Island.

Atlantic Rally for Cruisers

The Atlantic Rally for Cruisers (ARC) is a transatlantic sailing rallies for cruising boats. The event is held annually for cruising yacht since 1986. The ARC takes sailors across 2,700 miles of the Atlantic Ocean, aiming to give sailing experience to all the participants and local citizens. This sailing is considered as one of the most exciting ways of crossing the Atlantic Ocean, which is an aspiration for most sailors.

Opening ceremony of Atlantic Rally for Cruisers 2024

The Opening ceremony of the Atlantic Rally for Cruisers took place in Las Palmas marina. It was attended by hundreds of people, including Saint Lucian guests from London, who paraded around the marina carrying the flags of 35 nations as well as marine ensigns, boat ‘battle’ flags and regional flags.

The authorities of ARC 2024 extended gratitude to everyone who joined them at the Opening Ceremony. They acknowledged that they were honoured to welcome Anthony Severin, Saint Lucia’s High Commissioner to London, and their regular Lucian guests from London who love to share their homeland’s hidden secrets with the ARC sailors.

Activities to offer at Atlantic Rally for Cruisers

The authorities aim to host several exciting activities for both participants and local citizens. Therefore, they have asked everyone to come together and share cultural experiences. The ARC plays a huge role in attracting large number of travellers and providing them an opportunity to explore the hotspots of the island nation.

The Saint Lucia Tourism Authority have extended an invitation to all the sailors, adventurers, and ocean enthusiasts to be part of a special flotilla in celebration of this iconic transatlantic rally.

While extending an invitation, they said that the Atlantic Rally for Cruisers is not just a race but a celebration of sailing, exploration, and community. The Tourism Authority further said that ARC Flotilla ensures to offer an unforgettable experience to all their attendees, whether it is an experienced sailor or a first-time participant.

The authorities have ensured to showcase the vibrant culture and traditions of the country to all the attendees, aiming to celebrate the unique, creole culture and traditional culinary delights. They added that they have designed several exciting events and activities for the participants of Atlantic Rally for Cruisers.

The Rodney Bay Marina has also extended an invitation to all the interested individuals. They have asked people to bring their crew, family and friends to join the ultimate fun.

“Get ready to cheer on over 150 vessels as they set sail across the Atlantic, heading for the beautiful Rodney Bay, St. Lucia,” said Rodney Bay Marina.