A promising beginning to ARC 2024
The ARC 2024 began on Sunday, 24 November, with a record-breaking 45 multihulls leading the charge. A total of 139 yachts set off from Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, embarking on the 2,700-nautical-mile journey to Saint Lucia. This year’s fleet represented sailors from across the globe, from seasoned racers to cruising families pursuing a bucket-list dream. The event emphasised the ARC’s dual nature—a rally fostering camaraderie and a competitive race for others.
Man overboard: Tragedy aboard Volvo 70 Ocean Breeze
The ARC fleet faced a devastating loss on Monday, 2 December, when a man-overboard incident occurred aboard the Austrian-flagged Volvo 70 Ocean Breeze.
The incident
At 02:27 UTC, Dag Eresund, a 33-year-old sailor, was reported overboard. Eresund had been wearing an automatic inflatable lifejacket equipped with an AIS beacon, essential for man-overboard situations. Despite this, recovery efforts were severely hindered by the vessel’s remote location.
The Ocean Breeze crew immediately initiated a search, deploying recovery techniques and alerting nearby vessels.
Search efforts
The Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre (MRCC) Norfolk USA led the operation, with Leaps & Bounds 2 and the motor vessel Project X joining the search.
Over the course of the day, worsening weather and limited visibility compounded the challenges. No sightings were reported, and by 20:45 UTC, the active search was called off, leaving the crew and ARC community grieving.
Eresund’s tragic loss underscores the ever-present risks of offshore sailing. The WCC extended heartfelt condolences to his family and highlighted the importance of vigilance and robust safety protocols.
Rescue at sea: Karolina Viking Crew saved by Cinderella di Sanremo
As the ARC community grappled with the tragedy, another dramatic incident unfolded aboard Karolina Viking (Leopard 45, SWE).
Mayday call
At 03:00 UTC on 2 December, the catamaran’s crew reported taking on water in the starboard engine compartment, approximately 300 nautical miles upwind of Cape Verde. Electrical systems began to fail, worsening the already precarious situation.
Swift response
The 22.5m Jongert Cinderella di Sanremo, skippered by Gerald Smith, diverted course to assist. Meanwhile, ARC catamaran Akula also altered its route to provide additional support.
Within hours, Cinderella di Sanremo reached Karolina Viking and safely transferred all five crew members aboard. The quick action of the rescuers and seamless coordination prevented further loss of life.
Abandoning the vessel
Despite efforts to stabilise Karolina Viking, the damage proved insurmountable. The crew made the heart-wrenching decision to abandon the vessel.
The WCC commended the heroism and professionalism of Cinderella di Sanremo’s crew, showcasing the enduring camaraderie and mutual support that define the ARC ethos.
ARC 2024 fleet progress and challenges
While these incidents dominated headlines, the broader ARC fleet continued their journey across the Atlantic.
Weather and tactical adjustments
Weather conditions improved for much of the fleet, though shifting trade winds and occasional squalls kept crews on their toes. Some vessels opted for southerly routes to maximise wind patterns, while others chose a more direct path to Saint Lucia.
Fleet dynamics
Larger racing yachts maintained competitive positions, with Leaps & Bounds 2 leading in elapsed time. Cruisers, meanwhile, embraced the spirit of adventure, celebrating milestones and sharing updates through satellite communications.
Looking ahead
As the ARC fleet edges closer to Saint Lucia, the dual narratives of tragedy and triumph will remain etched in the minds of participants and the broader sailing community. The 2024 rally serves as a powerful reminder of both the ocean’s allure and its perils, inspiring sailors to approach future adventures with both boldness and caution.
