More than 800 sailors have left Las Palmas de Gran Canaria for Saint Lucia in the 40th edition of the Atlantic Rally for Cruisers (ARC).
A total of 145 boats are taking part in the 2,700-mile transatlantic passage, with crews representing more than 40 nations.
Crowds lined the breakwater to see the fleet away, waving flags and dancing as local group Banda Guiniguada played. Families and friends cheered from the shore as the yachts cleared the harbour.
Rodney Targa of Cut and Run said the build-up had been “really enjoyable” and praised the seminar programme and crew social events. He added: “We’re all ready to go. We’ve been here for three weeks and we’re well prepared.”
Light north-easterlies of 5–8 knots marked the start, giving crews a gentle introduction before they reach the stronger trade winds further offshore.
Spanish Navy vessel Tornado acted as the committee boat, and all divisions started on schedule.
The multihull division was first away at 12:30, with Sniky, a Nautitech 48, crossing ahead of Mathilda and Cut and Run.
The racing division began at 12:45. La Loévie, a Swan 76 skippered by JP Dick, led the start, followed by VO65 NEXTGEN by JAJO.
The cruising division, the largest group with 103 boats, started at 13:00. Azahar, a Swan 56, crossed first at the windward end, with Adrenalina, a J/130 skippered by Gill Duncan, breaking clear soon after.
Organiser World Cruising Club marked the 40th edition with expanded live coverage through its “ARC Live” streaming programme, offering global audiences real-time views of the start.
After years of preparation for many crews, the fleet is now settled into the opening miles of the crossing. Winds are expected to build within two days, helping yachts reach the established trade-wind route.
Most boats are forecast to arrive in Saint Lucia in 18 to 21 days, where they will be welcomed with Caribbean hospitality at the finish of one of offshore sailing’s best-known adventures.
