St Lucia Atlantic Rally Cruise

The St Lucia Atlantic Rally Cruise is an annual event that brings together sailors and sailing enthusiasts from all over the world. This event is hosted by the World Cruising Club and takes place in November each year.

The rally is a 2,700 nautical mile journey across the Atlantic Ocean, starting in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria and ending in Rodney Bay, St Lucia. The journey takes approximately 18 to 21 days, depending on the weather conditions.

The rally is open to all types of sailing vessels, from monohulls to catamarans, and attracts sailors of all ages and experience levels. The World Cruising Club provides a range of resources, including seminars, social events, and support services, to help participants prepare for the journey.

One of the highlights of the rally is the stopover in Mindelo, Cape Verde, which provides sailors with a chance to rest and explore the local culture before continuing on to St Lucia. Other highlights of the rally include the camaraderie among participants, the stunning scenery of the Atlantic Ocean, and the sense of accomplishment that comes with completing such a challenging journey.

If you're a sailing enthusiast looking for an adventure, the St Lucia Atlantic Rally Cruise is an event you won't want to miss. Whether you're a seasoned sailor or a novice, this rally provides an unforgettable experience and a chance to connect with fellow sailors from around the world.

The Route

The St Lucia Atlantic Rally Cruise starts in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria and ends in Rodney Bay, St Lucia. The route covers a distance of 2,700 nautical miles across the Atlantic Ocean.

The journey takes participants through the Canary Islands, past Cape Verde, and across the equator to the Caribbean. The route is challenging and requires sailors to navigate unpredictable weather conditions, strong currents, and the occasional storm.

Preparation

Participating in the St Lucia Atlantic Rally Cruise requires thorough preparation. The World Cruising Club provides a range of resources to help participants prepare for the journey, including seminars on weather routing, safety at sea, and navigation.

Sailors must also ensure that their vessel is in good condition and properly equipped for the journey. This includes having adequate safety equipment, such as life rafts and emergency beacons, as well as proper navigation and communication equipment.

The Stopover in Mindelo

One of the highlights of the St Lucia Atlantic Rally Cruise is the stopover in Mindelo, Cape Verde. This island nation is located approximately halfway between the Canary Islands and St Lucia and provides sailors with a chance to rest and explore the local culture.

Mindelo is a vibrant city with a rich history and culture. Participants in the rally can take part in guided tours of the city, visit local markets and shops, and enjoy the local cuisine. The stopover also provides a chance for sailors to rest and recharge before continuing on to St Lucia.

Conclusion

The St Lucia Atlantic Rally Cruise is an unforgettable experience for sailors and sailing enthusiasts. The rally provides a chance to sail across the Atlantic Ocean, connect with fellow sailors from around the world, and explore new cultures.

If you're considering participating in the rally, be sure to thoroughly prepare yourself and your vessel for the journey. With the right preparation and a sense of adventure, you can enjoy the camaraderie, stunning scenery, and sense of accomplishment that comes with completing this challenging journey.