Saint Lucia proudly bade farewell to a spirited group of sailors this week as participants in the 2026/2027 World ARC rally prepared to begin an extraordinary round‑the‑world voyage.
On Thursday evening, local hospitality figures gathered at IGY Rodney Bay Marina to send off around 100 sailors aboard 25 yachts embarking on a circumnavigation of nearly 27 000 nautical miles, with their return to Saint Lucia expected in April 2027.
World ARC is a global sailing event that brings together both seasoned mariners and adventurous newcomers for a long‑distance cruise that highlights safety, friendship and cultural exchange, supported with professional route planning and shoreside social programmes at key stops.
Louis Lewis, Chief Executive Officer of the Saint Lucia Tourism Authority, welcomed the participants and emphasised the benefits of hosting the event.
“We are thrilled to host this race in Saint Lucia,” he said. “It’s a pivotal moment for the visibility of our yachting sector.” He noted that with approximately 100 participants aboard 25 boats for this 15‑month global journey, the sailors play a crucial role in promoting Saint Lucia as a premier destination.
Margaret Adams, Deputy Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Tourism, expressed gratitude for the energy the sailors brought to the marina.
“We appreciate the energy you bring to the marina; your support strengthens Saint Lucia as a premier maritime tourism hub,” she stated. “We are glad to have had you here, wish you success on your journey, and eagerly anticipate your return.”
The event forms part of the wider World ARC series, which follows a global route starting and finishing in Saint Lucia. Sailors will travel through at least 18 to 19 countries, visiting destinations such as Panama, the Galapagos, French Polynesia and Australia as they chart their course around the world.
Organisers and local partners including World Cruising Club, the Saint Lucia Tourism Authority, the Events Company of Saint Lucia and IGY Rodney Bay Marina worked together to create a seamless send‑off for the fleet, reflecting the collaborative efforts that help make Saint Lucia a key hub for international yachting events.
World ARC remains one of the most remarkable sailing undertakings hosted in Saint Lucia, offering both participants and the local community an opportunity to celebrate exploration, resilience and the enduring spirit of ocean voyaging.