Ashore in Grenada: Time to Unwind with the ARC+ Programme

Once participants in the ARC+ 2025 fleet had completed their two‑leg transatlantic rally to Camper & Nicholsons Port Louis Marina in Grenada, they were welcomed ashore with warmth and celebration. It was then time to enjoy the lively ARC+ social programme which offered a variety of onshore experiences and activities, allowing participants to rest, unwind, explore the island, and connect with fellow sailors before the rally’s grand finale.

After arriving throughout early December, crews had time to explore Grenada’s beaches, local towns, and spice markets, relax ashore after weeks at sea, and enjoy the island’s renowned hospitality, swapping sea stories and cementing friendships made during the rally. Many also took the opportunity to tour the island’s scenic attractions, sample local cuisine, and soak up the vibrant culture, while informal gatherings at Port Louis Marina offered a social space to reconnect. 

The ARC+ shoreside social calendar was packed with fun and informative events. Crews enjoyed insightful talks on sailing the Grenadines with Chris Rundlett (LTD Sailing) and James Pascal (Horizon Yachts Grenada). Regular Happy Hour drinks at the popular Victory Bar, live music nights, a Sunset Cruise for early arrivals, Welcome Cocktails hosted by MAYAG (Marine & Yachting Trade Association of Grenada) at Knife & Fork, and a lively Blue Light Gin Party provided the perfect opportunities for everyone to come together, unwind, and share their rally experiences at the end of each day.

As the fleet settled ashore, the marina came alive with the sights and sounds of the ARC+ programme. Local fresh produce and handcrafted treasures tempted visitors at the Organic Farmers Market & Arts and Crafts, while the youngest sailors laughed and played at the Kids Fun Day, diving into games, face-painting, swimming races, and countless other activities.

One social event that all ARC+ participants look forward to after their arrival into Grenada is the Marina Manager’s Party held by Zara Tremlett and her team at Camper & Nicholsons Port Louis Marina. “The ARC+ Marina Manager’s Party is a legendary event,” said Event Manager Andrew Pickersgill. 

General Manager Zara Tremlett was pleased to see so many of the ARC+ crews enjoying themselves after their long passage. “Thank you everybody for turning up tonight and for getting to Grenada safely. Well done. The ARC+ is an amazing collaboration between the World Cruising Club, Grenada Tourism Authority, our team here at Camper & Nicholsons Port Louis Marina, and of course you guys – the sailors. Without you none of us would be here celebrating. You should be very proud of your achievements. There are a few of you out there that had a pretty rough time and I really take my hat off to you. 

"A big ‘thank you’ to all my team - the cleaners, the maintenance, the groundsmen, everybody. Also, to our neighbours here at the Merveilles Entertainment Hub, for shutting down their work so that we can hear what we're doing. Particular thanks go out to Cate and Deacon who come every year with their boat to Port Louis to support the arrival of the rally. Also, to Joe and Sara who were amazing volunteer helpers with the docking. I’m so grateful to them. It shows you what a fun group you are, so let the party begin, and well done everybody and thank you.”

The excitement and camaraderie continued to build, culminating in the official ARC+ Prizegiving Ceremony, hosted by the Grenada Tourism Authority on 11 December at Prickly Bay Marina. Here, achievements were celebrated, friendships were deepened, and the true spirit of ARC+ shone brightly across the shore.