Today Saint Lucia cheerfully welcomed the first arrival of the ARC+ fleet, Sparkman & Stevens Sloop Altair after a fast 2100NM passage from Mindelo, Cape Verde Islands. Crossing the finish line at 03:48:32 LT (UTC -4) making an elapsed time of 10 days 17 hours 48 minutes 32 seconds.
Skipper Clinton, owner Robert and crew on board were in great spirits having enjoyed their passage although the approach to the island in the middle of the night with squalls and shift winds made it a ‘sporty and even more special arrival’
As Altair sailed across the ARC+ finish line, the crew were welcomed and congratulated by Lynn and Ken manning the Finish Line and later by Rally Control who assisted them to their berth inside IGY Rodney Bay Marina. Once lying safely alongside the dock, the Saint Lucia Tourist Board represented by Brandon greeted the crew to the sound of steel pan to 'Wonderful Saint Lucia' with an ice-cold rum punch and local souvenirs.
Further arrivals are expected throughout the week at IGY Rodney Bay Marina. Follow the fleet tracker for the latest positions and estimated finish times.