Embracing the Unknown: Our ARC+ Expedition

As I sit there in the heart of Las Palmas marina, surrounded by the salty breeze and the buzz of anticipation, I can’t help but feel like I’m living in the midst of a maritime fairytale. Its officially the grand opening of the ARC+ offices and events, signaling the beginning of an adventure that promises to be nothing short of extraordinary.

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For those not yet acquainted with the nautical jargon, let me fill you in. The ARC+ isn’t just your average oceanic voyage; it’s a meticulously organised affair, a gathering of 95 boats and approximately 400 eager souls all gearing up to cross the mighty Atlantic. charts a course from Las Palmas to Cape Verde, then onward to the Caribbean gem of Grenada. It’s a tale of anticipation, of excitement tinged with just a hint of “oh my, what have I gotten myself into?” 

But amidst the sea of pre-sail preparations, there’s a spark of excitement in the air. The ARC+ parade, a tradition since the event’s inception, took on a whole new meaning this year as we kicked off with the inaugural procession. Picture me, proudly representing Iceland in a sea of sailors, the lone Icelandic soul amidst the salty sea breeze. It was a moment of pure joy, a memory to be cherished amidst the whirlwind of excitement. Our Crew represented there country too, Michelle from South Africa also Peter and Lana From Belgium. It was an wonderful day with lots of smiles, laughter and music.

But amidst the revelry, there’s work to be done. Safety checks with the ARC staff, meticulous inspections by the ever-watchful “Yellow Shirts” (a.k.a. the ARC+ crew).

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Then of course, our own personal precautions. Armed with pool noodles and duct tape, fashioning makeshift armour for our sails. It’s all in the name of smooth sailing, darlings.

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And let’s not forget the educational soirées that pepper our days – webinars, survival training, and a smorgasbord of knowledge to fuel our journey. But when night descends upon the marina, the marina comes alive with laughter and storytelling, it’s time to unwind, to swap tales with newfound friends, and to bask in the camaraderie of fellow adventurers.

As I sit here, enveloped in the palpable energy of the ARC+, I can’t help but smile at the thought of what lies ahead. The open sea beckons, promising a voyage filled with laughter, discovery, and the kind of magic that only the ocean can bestow. So here’s to anticipation, to excitement, and to that thrilling whisper of “oh, what did I get myself into now?” After all, isn’t that the essence of adventure?