The first leg of the ARC+ Rally 2024 has come to a thrilling conclusion, and what a journey it has been! This rally, spanning over 800 NM from Gran Canaria to Cape Verde, tested the mettle of sailors and their vessels. It’s a momentous occasion for all participants, but especially for the crews aboard the Catana OC 50 and the Bali 5.4, whose stellar performances demonstrated the strength, speed, and ingenuity of these world-class catamarans.
Outstanding Results from the ARC+ 2024
🏆 2nd Place in All Boats Class / 2nd in Multihulls Class: Piment Rouge – Catana OC 50
A shining example of precision and speed, Piment Rouge captured second place overall, showcasing the Catana OC 50’s unrivaled balance of performance and safety.
🏅 5th Place in All Boats Class / 5th in Multihulls Class: O’Vive – Catana OC 50
With its sleek design and cutting-edge engineering, O’Vive delivered a strong finish, representing the hallmark stability and reliability of Catana catamarans. Congratulations to Pierre de Saint-Vincent, David & Natalie Houston, and their exceptional crew!
⚓7th in Multihulls Class / 9th Place in All Boats Class: Avanti – Bali 5.4
As a beacon of comfort and efficiency, the Bali 5.4 proved its capability as both a luxurious cruiser and a competitive racer. Mustafa Sabri Unluturk and the crew aboard Avanti delivered an impressive performance, highlighting the versatility of this innovative design.
A Legacy of Adventure and Innovation
This year’s rally recalls past adventures, such as the unforgettable ARC Rally in 2019, when crews aboard Bali catamarans like our own Bali 5.4, Zuri 3 embraced the thrill of the open ocean. The spirit of camaraderie, the dedication to preparation, and the joy of crossing the Atlantic were on full display then, just as they are now in 2024.
Whether it’s the finely tuned performance of the Catana OC 50 or the spacious luxury of the Bali 5.4, these vessels embody the essence of bluewater cruising. With cutting-edge designs, optimized for safety and speed, both brands continue to set benchmarks for excellence.
Behind the Scenes of Success
The preparation for a rally like ARC+ is no small feat. Crews attend seminars, refine their navigation strategies, and prepare their vessels for the challenging conditions ahead. For many, like those aboard Piment Rouge, O’Vive, and Avanti, this journey is more than a race; it’s the culmination of teamwork, determination, and the unyielding pursuit of adventure.
The rally’s start in Gran Canaria saw light winds of 8-13 knots, with conditions steadily improving to 13-18 knots as the fleet sailed southward. The crews worked tirelessly to optimize their sail plans, ensuring top performance even as they enjoyed moments of relaxation under the sun—a testament to the livability and comfort of their vessels.
More Than a Race: The ARC+ Experience
The ARC+ is more than a competition; it’s an opportunity for sailors to connect, learn, and create lasting memories. From the camaraderie at the starting line to the victorious moments at Cape Verde, the rally encapsulates the spirit of ocean cruising.
We encourage all sailing enthusiasts to follow these exciting journeys, connect with the crews, and explore the possibilities of joining the ARC+ or similar rallies in the future.
Congratulations to All Participants!
To all the sailors who embarked on this journey, we salute your spirit of adventure and determination. Special congratulations to the crews of Piment Rouge, O’Vive, and Avanti for their remarkable achievements. Your success is a testament to the capabilities of Catana and Bali catamarans and the incredible efforts of your teams.
Thinking about embarking on your own bluewater adventure? Let us help you find the perfect catamaran for your journey. Contact us today to explore the possibilities with Catana and Bali and turn your sailing dreams into reality.
Fair winds and following seas to all ARC+ 2024 participants!
