Sailors from around the world departed Sint Maarten for the opening leg of ARC Europe 2026, beginning their transatlantic voyage toward Bermuda and ultimately Europe.
The ARC Europe rally is a multi-stage transatlantic cruising event in which sailors can join in either Sint Maarten or Bermuda before continuing on to Europe in early June. This year, 36 boats entered the rally, bringing together more than 170 sailors from around the world. Participants completing all three legs will sail a total of 3,745 nautical miles, and excitement was high ahead of the departure.
Simon Janison (GBR), skipper of Surprise, said:
“You’ve got to sail an ocean, don’t you? I came out with the ARC last year and it was fantastic. I had a really good time, but now I’m on my way home with ARC Europe.
“We feel confident that the boat is in the condition it should be. Also, the stops, which we didn’t have on the ARC, make things easier.”
ARC Europe began in steady 13–15 knot winds from the west-southwest — ideal conditions for the fleet as it heads north toward Bermuda. The 870-nautical-mile passage from Sint Maarten to Bermuda typically takes four to five days, and with stable winds forecast, the fleet is expected to make good progress into the North Atlantic.
Still, the route can occasionally present challenging conditions as low-pressure systems move across the course. For many sailors, the ARC Europe rally offers added peace of mind through the support provided by the World Cruising Club and the camaraderie of sailing alongside other yachts.
Ahead of the start, Mark Wojtania (USA) of Copernicus Star said:
“We felt a little unsure about crossing an entire ocean by ourselves for the first time. ARC Europe just felt safer. I know the safety standards are excellent, and there’s a great community and family of sailors. We just thought, let’s do it!
“We’re slowly getting to know everyone, but the people in this fleet are friends for life. It’s such a great way to meet people you’ll know forever.”
Beyond the safety and logistical support that World Cruising Club events provide, ARC Europe participants have also enjoyed an active social program organized as part of the rally. Sailors beginning in Sint Maarten have already taken part in sundowner gatherings, an island tour, and a fleet barbecue. In the weeks ahead, participants will enjoy additional tours and social events at each destination along the route.
These events are made possible through the support of local tourism boards and key nautical organizations, including the Sint Maarten Yacht Club and the Sint Maarten Marine Trades Association, whose members include IGY Marinas at Simpson Bay, Island Water World, and many others. Together, they help create a warm and memorable welcome for the fleet.
Following the start of ARC Europe 2026, Paul Tetlow, Managing Director of World Cruising Club, said:
“The start of ARC Europe is an exciting time for the team at World Cruising Club. We are delighted to support participants on their Atlantic crossing, where they will undoubtedly create lifelong memories.
“We are pleased to see some familiar faces returning to a World Cruising Club event following positive experiences on World ARC, ARC, and ARC+. We also welcome participants who have never been part of a World Cruising Club rally and will be enjoying the experience for the first time.
“ARC Europe is a multi-stage rally, which means participants experience a range of different cultures on both sides of the Atlantic Ocean. It also allows them to enjoy an extensive social program at each rally destination. It’s a very sociable event, with lifelong friendships formed throughout the sailing community.”
The rally participants are now in the early stages of what promises to be a memorable six-week adventure across the Atlantic. Each destination along the route will offer its own unique experiences, making ARC Europe as much about the journey and community as the miles sailed.
