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St. Lucia ARC Yacht Race, November 2005 - General Information,
Photographs and Accommodation
This annual transatlantic rally starting each November in Las
Palmas de Gran Canaria, has now become the most popular way
to cross the Atlantic. The largest transocean sailing event
in the world, every year the ARC brings together over 300 yachts
from all over the world. The Caribbean destination is Rodney
Bay in St. Lucia, one of the most beautiful islands in the Lesser
Antilles. The 2700 nautical mile passage on the NE tradewind
route takes on average between 12 and 24 days.
The ARC is open to cruising monohulls from 27ft (8.23m) LOA
and cruising catamarans from 25ft to 60ft (7.62 - 18.29m) LOA,
with a minimum crew of two. The World Cruising handicap is used
to calculate results in the cruising classes, in which motoring
is permitted. A racing class, rated under the IRC System, is
run for those wanting more a competitive crossing, under the
auspices of the Royal Ocean Racing Club. Yachts in this class
may be sponsored. Motor yachts can also participate in the ARC
in a separate division.
Conceived as a friendly race for cruising yachts to make the
Atlantic crossing both safer and more enjoyable, participating
yachts must carry a range of safety equipment including a life raft,
EPIRB and VHF radio. Daily radio nets contribute further to
the safety of participants. The presence of experienced sailors
is another incentive for those with little offshore experience.
The ARC has a special flavour, which successfully combines racers
with cruisers, old with young, and provides entertainment for
all. A wide ranging programme of entertainment takes place both
before the start and after the finish. The ARC enjoys the support
of the Tourist Authority of Gran Canaria, the Port Authority
of Las Palmas, Alcorde Nautica and the St. Lucia Board of Tourism.
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