A big party, music, children who don't miss a thing: that's the atmosphere of the ARC+ awards ceremony in Rodney Bay Marina in Saint Lucia. This event, which has become essential to the success of the original ARC Transat - Las Palmas/Sainte-Lucie without stopovers - is of great interest since 72 yachts from 22 different countries took part in this 2018 edition. Andrew Bishop, RCAF manager, is even convinced that this format, which includes a stopover in Mindelo, will soon become just as coveted as the direct route transatlantic race.
In practical terms, the ARC+ started on 11 November for an 850-mile crossing to Mindelo after a fine 5 to 7-day sail. On the Cape Verdean archipelago, competitors enjoyed shore visits and the discovery of the neighbouring island of Santo Antao. But they quickly set sail again for the second leg to Saint Lucia, 2,100 miles - and the famous Transat at the end of the day. A course completed in 10 to 15 days, depending on the performance, size and motivation of the crew.
Good news: all the sailboats arrived in Rodney Bay before... the awards ceremony. And so before that, the majority of the RCAF troops from Las Palmas were welcomed - although the crews of the 80 sailboats already moored in Saint Lucia were able to join in the celebration. Thanks to the steady trade wind throughout the entire course!
It's the X-65 Nika who crossed the line first. In compensated time, the Lagoon 450 F Skyfall is the first multihull. In class B, the Swan 46 Gertha 5 takes first place. In class C, the winning crew of the Sigma 38 The Project has largely deserved its victory and a special prize for DIY and seamanship since the sailboat has covered no less than 1,500 miles... without its boom, broken three days after the start. As for the Baltic 56 Axeline 2 it is the first monohull to be classified without the help of its engine.
