With just weeks to go before the arrival of more than 150 yachts from across the globe, Saint Lucia has officially launched its sponsor partner support for the Atlantic Rally for Cruisers (ARC) 2025. Event organizers describe this year’s edition as one of the strongest yet, anchored by renewed private-sector collaboration, a sharpened focus on cultural experience, and a united message that the ARC remains one of Saint Lucia’s most valuable tourism drivers.
At a sponsor recognition event on November 6th, Chief Executive Officer of the Events Company of Saint Lucia, Lorraine Sidonie, underscored the immense coordination needed to stage the ARC each year, crediting the core support of the business community.
“The ARC is a once-in-a-lifetime experience for many of the sailors who choose Saint Lucia,” Sidonie said. “We start planning from April because we want to make sure the Saint Lucia brand remains strong, our safety, our authenticity, and the quality of the welcome they receive. And we simply could not do that without our sponsors.”
Sidonie highlighted that more than 150 welcome baskets, filled with locally made products, will be prepared for this year’s fleet, alongside cultural showcases, prize-giving ceremonies, entertainment and logistics support for race officials and crews.
“Our sponsors help reduce the operational costs, which means more of the money spent by visitors circulates through the local economy. These boats and their crews spend millions here over the years. Your support helps us catch the wind and keep moving forward,” she added.
Meanwhile, Chris Gustave of the Saint Lucia Tourism Authority noted the event’s global power in storytelling and destination branding.
“The ARC is more than a race. It is a global story of courage, adventure and connection, and that story ends in Saint Lucia. The private sector plays a critical role in ensuring the experience here is world-class. Your investment leads to repeat visitors, stronger relationships, and real economic impact for communities.”
He emphasized that the ARC continues to reinforce Saint Lucia’s reputation as a premier sailing, adventure, and marine tourism destination.
General Manager of IGY Rodney Bay Marina, Shawn Deveaux, encouraged sponsors to think regionally and strategically about the long-term benefits of supporting the ARC.
“The ARC doesn’t end when the boats leave Saint Lucia,” he said. “These sailors travel the Caribbean, they use marinas, restaurants, and services across the region. The value extends far beyond our shores. We’ve partnered with the World Cruising Club to build that broader network.”
Deveaux said the longstanding relationship, now entering its 40th year globally and 37th year within Saint Lucia, remains one of the marina’s proudest milestones.
Representing the World Cruising Club, Peta Cozier expressed deep appreciation for Saint Lucia’s ongoing partnership. “After sailing 2,700 nautical miles across the Atlantic, our crews are ready to celebrate, and you make that celebration possible,” Cozier said. “We are grateful to our long-standing supporters and to the new sponsors who have joined us this year. Your support helps us maintain the high standards that keep sailors returning year after year.”
The 2025 ARC is expected to see approximately 150 boats and nearly 1,000 crew members from 38 countries, positioning it once again as one of the largest and most influential sailing rallies in the Atlantic.
