On Sunday, November 23, the 40th edition of the Atlantic Rally for Cruisers (ARC) commenced with a grand flotilla departing from Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Spain, bound for Rodney Bay Marina in Saint Lucia. This annual event, renowned for fostering seamanship, cultural exchange, and international camaraderie, saw over 100 boats embark on the 2,700-nautical-mile journey. The Saint Lucia Tourism Authority (SLTA), in collaboration with Events Saint Lucia and the World Cruising Club (WCC), orchestrated a synchronized celebration in Castries, symbolizing the transatlantic start of the rally. Peta Cozier of the WCC, who has been involved with the ARC for a decade, expressed her excitement, highlighting the meticulous preparation and the diverse participation of 148 boats across three categories: cruising, multi-hull, and IRC racing. The latter category relies solely on ocean winds, showcasing traditional sailing skills. This year’s rally features 900 participants aged 6 to 80, hailing from eight countries. Cozier emphasized the event’s role in building lifelong friendships and fostering global networks. Louis Lewis, CEO of the SLTA, underscored the ARC’s significance as the flagship event for the yachting sector, expressing enthusiasm for the return of the flotilla to its former scale. He outlined an engaging itinerary for participants upon their arrival in Saint Lucia, designed to showcase the island’s culture and hospitality. Before the flotilla’s departure, Dexter Percil, SLTA’s Director of Global Marketing, acknowledged the support of sponsors and media partners, including IGY Rodney Bay Marina, Heineken Saint Lucia, and Digicel. The journey is expected to take 14 to 21 days, with the first boats anticipated to arrive in Saint Lucia by early December.