The ARC Europe 2026 fleet has departed Sint Maarten for Bermuda on the opening leg of this year’s transatlantic cruising rally. A total of 36 yachts and more than 170 sailors are taking part in the multi-stage event, which offers departures from either Sint Maarten or Bermuda before the fleet heads for Europe in June.
The first leg covers 870 nautical miles to Bermuda, with crews expected to complete the passage in four to five days. Conditions at the start were favourable, with steady west south-westerly winds of 13 to 15 knots helping the fleet north into the Atlantic.
British skipper Simon Janison of Surprise said the rally format made the crossing more manageable. “You’ve got to sail an ocean, don’t you?” he said.
“I came out with the ARC last year, and it was fantastic. I had a really good time but now I’m on my way home with ARC Europe.” “We feel confident that the boat is in the condition that it should be. Also, the stops, which we didn’t have on the ARC, make things easier,” he added.
World Cruising Club says ARC Europe offers additional reassurance for less experienced ocean sailors through organised support and the shared experience of travelling with a fleet.
ARC Europe crews wave off from Sint Maarten. Photo: Gaby Eman
Mark Wojtania of the USA, sailing aboard Copernicus Star, said the rally appealed because of its safety structure and social atmosphere. “ARC Europe just felt safer,” he said. “I know that the safety standards are great and there’s a great community and family of sailors.”
Participants have also taken part in a programme of social events in Sint Maarten, including island tours, barbeques and evening receptions organised with local marine businesses and tourism groups.
World Cruising Club managing director Paul Tetlow said the event combined offshore sailing with a strong community element. “ARC Europe is a multi-stage Rally, which means participants will experience a range of different cultures on both sides of the Atlantic Ocean,” he said. “It’s very sociable, with lifetime friendships being formed among the community of sailors.”
The full rally covers 3,745 nautical miles across three stages.
