Aidan Heffernan’s Indulgence sailing in Cork waters. file pic Robert Bateman
Take a look at and feel our weather conditions to day as I write this and then cast an envious glance at the programme commencing tomorrow, November 25th, in Las Palmas for our popular Royal Cork Member Aidan Heffernan and his crew in his Dehler 36 ‘Indulgence’ straight sheer 9/10 rig sloop designed by Judel/Vrolijk as they depart in the ARC, the Atlantic rally for Cruisers. Joining him in this fabulous trip will be Joleen Cronin, Denis Nagle and John Hanley. Their email address for the trip is ahindulgence@gmail.com.
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 200 yachts from all over the world. The Caribbean destination is Rodney Bay in Saint 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 14 and 21 days.
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 liferaft, 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, Rol Nautic and the Saint Lucia Board of Tourism.
The ARC is open to cruising monohulls with a minimum length of 8.23-25.91m (27 to 85ft) and cruising catamarans from 8.23 – 18.29m (27 to 60 ft) LOA. Yachts outside these sizes may be permitted to join in the Open Division.
The competitive side of the event will be catered for by the RORC Racing Division, rated under the IRC Handicap System, run under the auspices of the Royal Ocean Racing Club (RORC).
The World Cruising handicap is used to calculate results in the cruising classes, in which motoring is permitted. A full programme of social activities, safety seminars and demonstrations will be organised by World Cruising Club in Las Palmas prior to the start, and after the finish in St.Lucia.
Confirmed entrants receive regular newsletters about the ARC, containing useful information about planning an Atlantic crossing, updates on entries and safety tips.
Bon Voyage to all on board for a wonderful and safe trip.
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