With one week to go before the fleet sets off across the Atlantic, sailors in the 40th Atlantic Rally for Cruisers filled the Las Palmas waterfront with flags, music and celebration during the ARC 2025 Opening Ceremony.
More than 30 nations are represented in this year’s edition of the 2700 mile rally to Saint Lucia. The parade marked an important milestone in the lead-up to departure as crews complete final preparations for their offshore passage.
Participants gathered at the north end of the marina before processing along the promenade, carrying their national flags past cheering crowds. Local percussion groups added to the atmosphere, and officials from the City Council and Port Authority welcomed the sailors to Las Palmas.
A distinct Caribbean presence also colored the event. Representatives from the Saint Lucia Tourism Authority and members of the Saint Lucian diaspora joined the parade in traditional dress, offering crews a preview of the warm hospitality waiting on the other side of the ocean.
“The opening ceremony was amazing. I loved how there were all the flags and everyone was in great spirits,” said Marley Tonkin of Aurelia T. “Crossing the Atlantic always felt like that next stage, but now it’s getting close I’m starting to get a little bit apprehensive. That said, I’m so excited for it. I think it’s going to be a once in a lifetime opportunity and I can’t wait.”
After the parade, the ARC Dinghy Race returned to the program for the first time in several years. Crews and local teams paddled a variety of small craft around the marina in a lighthearted competition that drew enthusiastic support from the waterfront. A short ceremony followed, with prizes for first across the line, best dressed crews and best spirit.
Throughout the coming week, participants will join safety demonstrations, ocean cruising seminars and social events that make the ARC a community as much as a passage. Most boats are expected to take 18 to 21 days to reach Saint Lucia once they depart on November 23.
For many sailors, the ARC represents a bucket list crossing, and the sense of achievement at landfall will be as memorable as the miles made along the way.
