ARC Europe Island Explorers

2015 has been a bumper year for entries in ARC Europe - our west to east transatlantic rally. With starts from Nanny Cay, Tortola in the BVIs and Portsmouth, Virginia on the East Coast of America those sailing with the rally may be heading to Europe for the first time to explore new cruising grounds, or on a homeward bound passage, returning after a winter of Caribbean cruising. No less than 20 boats in this year's rally had sailed with the ARC and ARC+ previously, but ARC Europe is much more than just a transocean delivery, as the crews from more than 20 nations are finding out as they pass the half-way point of their 6-week adventure.

Featuring a stopover in Bermuda and two week cruise through the remote Azores islands en route, crews are enjoying the natural and architectural delights of the islands and the time ashore means the fleet are well prepared for the ocean passages. Many also take the opportunity to change crews and involve more family and friends in their Atlantic adventure.

Entries are open for 2016 set to depart Nanny Cay, BVI and Portsmouth, Virginia on 7 May 2016. There are discounts on boat fees for all bookings received before 18 December 2015 - 20% for ARC/ARC+ 2015 boats and 5% for all other boats. Click here to request an information pack.
 

 ARC Portugal sets sail

Following a three-day weather delay, crews of yachts taking part in our annual ARC Portugal rally waved good bye Mayflower Marina in Plymouth, UK for the first leg of their sail south to the Algarve coast of Portugal. High winds and big swells that had moved through Biscay saw the start postponed from the planned departure on Sunday 31 June and crews welcomed the extra time in port as the front passed through. The delay meant conditions for the start on Wednesday 3 June were a stark contrast and blue sky and winds of 10-15 knots from the north-west, created perfect conditions for the route out towards Ushant.

2015 marks the 21st edition of ARC Portugal (formerly Rally Portugal) and combines a cruise in company with an exploration of northern Spain and Atlantic Portugal en route. While the itinerary has changed slightly over the years as new marinas have developed, the ethos of a social cruise with exploring ashore and afloat has remained strong. The 2015 route features stopovers in Bayona, Povoa de Varzim, Porto, Figueira da Foz, Peniche, Oeiras and Sines, before reaching Marina de Lagos at the gateway of the Mediterranean - an ideal base for a summer of cruising

Follow the fleet on the World Cruising Club Website and on Facebook

Baltic 4 Nations - Join us this summer

 If you're yet to fix your cruising plans for this summer, why not consider joining us for the Baltic 4 Nations rally - a 370 mile, two week cruise, visiting some of the most beautiful locations in the southern Baltic.

The route is ideal for those unable to join the longer ARC Baltic rally due to time commitments and provides a wonderful two week adventure featuring Hanseatic cities, quiet fishing harbours, bustling cities, and beautiful beaches. The flotilla-style cruise starts and finishes in Copenhagen and includes free sail days and rendezvous en route with World Cruising Club staff on hand throughout.
 

To find out more, request an information pack
 

ARC and ARC+ 

This spring has seen a rush of sign-ups for ARC 2015 with both route options now close to capacity for this November. It will be an extra special year for the ARC as we celebrate the 30th edition and we will be welcoming a number of sailors who crossed the Atlantic with the first rally back in 1986. The upper entry limit for ARC+ Cape Verdes has been increased following two successful editions, and up to 75 boats can elect to depart Las Palmas de Gran Canaria on 8 November bound for Marina Mindelo, Sao Vicente then onto Saint Lucia. Those sailing the traditional direct route depart Las Palmas two weeks later on 22 November 2015 following a programme of preparation seminars and social events. 

If you are joining us this year, don't forget to fly your ARC flag en route to las Palmas - not only does this entitle you to discounts at many marinas along the way, but you'll be surprised how many fellow participants you'll meet. 

Meet the World ARC crews and boats

Open Boat Day in Mackay - Sat 25 July

Aspiring round the world sailors are invited to come and "meet the crews" at 

our World ARC open day, whilst the 2015 fleet is in Mackay, Queensland, Australia. As well as a look around the boats, there will be a chance to chat about the route and equipment requirements with the World ARC team over lunch. Contact Hugh Murray-Walker to book your visit.