Sail Racing Academy

Transatlantic ARC 2026

Since November 1986, the Atlantic Rally for Cruisers has been a main fixture in the sailing diary for over 30 years. As the largest race of its kind, it’s a ‘must do’ for many; registering on the bucket list of experienced sea dogs and unseasoned landlubbers alike.

Better known as ARC, the rally attracts over 200 boats and 1200 people every year, from all over the world. Strangers gather together at Las Palmas on Gran Canaria. Here, they meet their fellow crewmates and become familiar with the boat that will be their home for the next few weeks. They will spend their land-based days preparing themselves with training and safety drills. Then, the first gun will sound and the rally will begin. Sails are unfurled and the boats plow through the waves towards the classic trade wind routes. Elements are battled. Old and new skills are put to the test. All while the boats sail 2700NM across the planet’s second-largest ocean. By the time the boats cruise into the warm waters of St Lucia, life-long friends step off the boats and into the open arms of the welcoming committee. And some well-earned rest and celebration.

Having successfully completed in 2018, 2019, (with 2 boats) 2021, 2022, gaining a podium finish in 2020 and actually winning the racing division in 2022, Sail Racing Academy will again join ARC in the Racing Division. This means no mechanical propulsion; it’s the wind in the sails the whole way! We recognise that for many of our crew on board this is an opportunity to fulfill a lifelong dream. Arc can be the most wonderful of champagne sailing or a challenge to overcome as a team, embracing a whole lot of fun along the way.

Though Sail Racing Academy is all for everyone enjoying themselves, safety remains our top priority.

Days 1-6 - 10th to 15th Nov 2026: Sea Survival Course
We’re hoping to once again offer a two-day Sea Survival course as part of the preparation and training days. Each boat’s crew will spend two days completing the course, while the remaining days will be dedicated to preparing and readying their vessel. This prep work will continue throughout the week leading up to the start.

The course is not only a great opportunity for crew to learn and practise essential safety procedures together, but it also helps us meet the ARC’s minimum requirement for certified crew members. We’ll confirm the final details shortly.

Days 7-12 - 16th to 21st Nov 2026: Boat Preparation & Training
In the lead-up to the start, you’ll spend your days preparing the boat, attending seminars, and getting to know both your yacht and your fellow crewmates. The schedule will be a mix of hands-on work, training sessions, and opportunities to build team dynamics.

There are usually plenty of chances to join in with the local social events organised by the ARC. These are a great way to make new friends and get a feel for the wider fleet. That said, do expect the first few days to involve some hard graft. All the boats on the dock will be busy with repairs, last-minute improvements, provisioning, and fine-tuning, and we are no exception. It’s a full-on week, but incredibly rewarding.

Day 13 – 22nd Nov 2026: Official start to the ARC
12:45hrs start gun. The ARC begins.
This is a great opportunity to gain considerable miles towards qualifying for the RYA Yachtmaster Qualification.

Day 39 - 18th Dec 2026: Official end of the race
At 12:00hrs, the finishing line to the race closes. This gives all of the boats an amble 27 days to cross the Atlantic.

Day 40 - 19th Dec 2026: Prize Giving Ceremony
A time of parties and celebrations.

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