As the 28th edition of the world’s most popular sailing event – the Atlantic Rally for Cruisers (ARC) sets sail this Sunday from Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, dozens of sea-worthy craft will simultaneously set sail from the Castries Harbour as part of the 8th annual Flotilla.
Organised by IGY Rodney Bay Marina in conjunction with the Marine Industries Association of St. Lucia, the St. Lucia Yacht Club, the Saint Lucia Tourist Board and several other corporate partners, the Flotilla is a symbolic event commemorating the official start of the ARC.
Like the over 250 plus ARC vessels which will eventually dock at the IGY Rodney Bay Marina, flotilla boats will also cross a symbolic finishing line at the marina. With the kick-off planned for 10:00 am from the calm waters of the Castries Waterfront, the boats are expected to arrive at the IGY Rodney Bay Marina by approximately 12:30pm.
As Saint Lucia prepares to receive and play host to hundreds of sailors and their families for the ARC, the Flotilla provides a unique opportunity for Saint Lucians to be imbued with the spirit of the ARC, whilst rekindling their love for the sea.
Event organisers say registration is free and all sea-worthy craft are welcomed. A family fun-filled afternoon awaits participants at the marina, following the conclusion of the race.
Saint Lucia has served as the finishing leg of the ARC for the past 23 years and has welcomed well over 30,000 mariners and their families since then.