ARC - ATLANTIC RALLY FOR CRUISERS

"....thanks for organising the sailing trip of my dreams. It has been a blast from the beginning to the end...." Rebecca, ARC 2009

"...the only way to go across a big water! Thanks for all your efforts..." Steve Collins, ARC 2009

IN 2009 NORTHERN CHILD HAD HER FASTEST EVER CROSSING IN 15 DAYS 4 HOURS.

In 2008, NORTHERN CHILD CAME 1ST IN CLASS AND 2ND OVERALL.

The ARC is an annual transatlantic rally, starting on 21st November 2010 in Las Palmas, Gran Canaria and finishing in St Lucia in the Caribbean. The 2,700 nautical mile passage on the North East tradewind route takes between 15 to 18 days.

With more than 200 boats participating in this event, the rally is characterised by a tremendous camaraderie between all those taking part. The ARC organisers provide entertainment for all with a wide-ranging programme of parties, barbecues and seminars, taking place both before the start and after the finish.

For the past six ARC, the crew have defined their objectives for the transatlantic crossing as below:

To sail all the way from Las Palmas to the Caribbean (no use of the engine)
To steer all the way (no use of the autopilot)
To have a friendly, fun and safe passage.

The crew will join Northern Child in Las Palmas on Wednesday, the 17th November 2010 so that each crew member can participate in the preparation of the transatlantic crossing, explore Gran Canaria, participate in the seminars and parties, meet the rest of the crew and start to familiarise themselves with the boat.

During the crossing, the crew will work a system of 2 watches to maximise boat speed at all time. All crew will take part in the onboard tasks and in making this long passage a success. Although no previous ocean experience is required, we highly recommend that all the crew have already assessed whether or not they enjoy sailing, by at least having completing one week of sailing or by joining Northern Child on one of our other sailing events. Enthusiasm, dedication, good overall fitness and a willingness to be part of a team are very important. All crew will attend safety and crew briefings from the Skipper before the start of the rally. You can stay on board for 48 hours after arrival in St Lucia, after which you are welcome to sail with us to Antigua, our winter cruising base.