Sailors from around the world have begun their journey as part of the ARC Europe 2026 fleet, departing from Sint Maarten for Bermuda, marking the first leg of their transatlantic crossing.
This multi-stage cruising event allows participants to start from either Sint Maarten or Bermuda before heading to Europe in June. This year, 36 boats, comprising over 170 sailors from various countries, are participating in the Rally. Completing all legs will involve a total distance of 3745NM across three stages. Enthusiasm was palpable among sailors as they prepared to set sail.
Simon Janison, skipper of Surprise, expressed his excitement, stating, “You’ve got to sail an ocean, don’t you? Last year’s ARC was fantastic, and now I’m returning home with ARC Europe. We feel confident that the boat is in the condition that it should be. The stops make things easier, unlike the previous ARC.”
The rally commenced in favourable conditions with 13-15 knots of breeze from the west-southwest, ideal for the fleet’s journey north to Bermuda. The typical voyage from Sint Maarten to Bermuda spans 870NM and takes about 4-5 days, with stable winds aiding their progress into the North Atlantic.
While the route can present weather challenges, the ARC Europe Rally offers participants enhanced safety through support from the World Cruising Club and the camaraderie of sailing alongside other yachts. Mark Wojtania, from Copernicus Star, shared, “We were unsure about crossing an ocean alone; ARC Europe felt safer. The safety standards are exceptional, and the community fosters lifelong friendships.”
Participants have also enjoyed a social programme that includes sundowner drinks, island tours, and a fleet barbecue. Looking ahead, they can anticipate various tours and events at each stop along the way, made possible by local tourism boards and nautical organisations, such as the Sint Maarten Yacht Club and the Sint Maarten Marine Trades Association.
Paul Tetlow, Managing Director of World Cruising Club, remarked, “The start of ARC Europe is an exciting time for our team. We’re thrilled to support participants on their journey, where they will create lifelong memories. It’s wonderful to see returning sailors alongside newcomers who will experience this journey for the first time.”
As participants embark on this six-week adventure, they can look forward to unique experiences at each destination, promising unforgettable moments.
For further information about World Cruising Club rallies, visit the World Cruising Club website.
About World Cruising Club
- World Cruising Club was formed in 1987 by Jimmy Cornell after the success of the original 1986 Atlantic Rally for Cruisers. After two changes of ownership, the company is run by Paul and Suzana Tetlow with a small dedicated team in Cowes (UK) supported on events by a wider network of the famous ‘yellow shirts’.
- ARC from Gran Canaria to Saint Lucia. First run in 1986, the rally attracts over 150 boats. The ARC is the only rally with an IRC racing division.
- ARC+ from Gran Canaria to Grenada via Cape Verde. First run in 2013, the fleet size is around 100 boats.
- ARC Europe from Sint Maarten to Bermuda, then the Azores, finishing in Lagos Marina, Portugal mainland. It first ran in 2000. The fleet is around 30 boats.
- World ARC 26,000NM circumnavigation starting and finishing in the Caribbean. The first World ARC took place in 2008 following the success of the Europa rallies and it runs annually.
- ARC Portugal first sailed in 1995, the rally crosses the Bay of Biscay then day sails down the Portuguese coast to finish in Lagos.
- ARC Baltic will return this year and offers 1000NM of stunning cruising through the Baltic Sea. The route starts in Kiel, Germany and finishes in Bullandö, Sweden.
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