Places going fast for the 2016 ARC Channel Islands

Victoria Marina - St Peter Port, Guernsey

Following a successful launch event at the Southampton Boat Show in September, places are going fast for next summer’s ARC Channel Isles rally.

Sixteen of the 30 available places have so far been booked up for next summer’s cross-Channel cruise in company to Alderney, Guernsey, Jersey and Cherbourg.

Taking place from 20 to 27 August 2016, ARC Channel Islands is run by World Cruising Club (WCC) in association with RYA Active Marina and with the support of Hamble School of Yachting and Practical Boat Owner magazine.

The entry fee includes pre-rally preparation advice and support from a lead boat, combined with a cruise-in-company and social activities ashore, berthing for the duration of the rally, GPS satellite tracking of each yacht, and the support of WCC staff throughout the rally.

Participants will meet at Premier Marina in Gosport for a welcome supper on Thursday 18 August.

Following safety checks and skippers briefings, the fleet will set sail for Cherbourg on Saturday 20 August. After having a day to enjoy the town and local market, the rally will visit Jersey, Guernsey and Alderney on a route that allows sailors to combine pleasant sailing with time to explore ashore.

Rally participants island tour of Guernsey and visit to the Second World War Military Hospital, as well as a ride on the Alderney railway.

Guy Malpas, RYA yachting development manager, said: ‘To be over half full after two months is brilliant news.

‘We are delighted to see such an interest in the rally following the launch. I’m sure it will prove to be an excellent opportunity for sailors of all abilities to gain greater experience in a challenging and enjoyable environment.’The fleet will return to Gosport following an overnight sail from Alderney, and conclude the rally with a farewell dinner on Saturday 27 August.

All confirmed ARC Channel Island entries can save up to 30% on selected charts and pilot books through Imray once they have signed up to the rally.

Due to space restrictions, ARC Channel Islands is limited to 30 boats and places are being allocated on a ‘first come, first served basis’. Would-be participants are encouraged to enter early to secure a place.

Full pricing details and links to the conditions of entry and safety equipment requirements are available in the ARC Channel Islands Information Pack.

To request a copy, please contact World Cruising Club on +44 (0) 1983 296060, or email mail@worldcruising.com