World Cruising Club
Explore the World with the World Cruising Club
At Balance Catamarans, we are committed to offering our owners unparalleled sailing experiences. We are thrilled to introduce the World Cruising Club (WCC), the world’s leading sailing rally specialist, organizing events that cater to both seasoned sailors and novices alike.
What is World Cruising Club?
Established with the inaugural Atlantic Rally for Cruisers (ARC) in 1986, WCC has grown exponentially, now assisting over 450 boats and 1,200 sailors annually in achieving their sailing aspirations. Their rallies range from global circumnavigations and ocean crossings to social cruises and island-hopping adventures, all emphasizing safe and social cruising.
How Do the Rallies Work?
Participating in a WCC rally offers a blend of structured sailing and free exploration. Each rally is meticulously planned to ensure the fleet remains cohesive, allowing participants to enjoy group shore-side activities while benefiting from favorable weather conditions. The rallies are inclusive, welcoming families with children, retirees, and those embarking on a “grown-up gap year.” A dedicated rally team supports participants both at sea and ashore, ensuring a memorable and secure experience.
World ARC – Circumnavigation Adventure
Embark on a 14-month journey starting from Saint Lucia or Australia, sailing around the world. This rally combines company cruising with periods allocated for individual exploration. Participants can take breaks to travel home or explore destinations like Easter Island, New Zealand, or Madagascar before rejoining the fleet.
ARC Plus – Atlantic Rally for Cruisers via Cape Verde
Cross the Atlantic from Gran Canaria to Grenada, with a stopover in Cape Verde. This route offers a unique blend of ocean sailing and cultural experiences.
ARC – Atlantic Rally for Cruisers
A flagship event attracting over 200 boats and 1,200 sailors annually. Covering 2,700 nautical miles, the ARC departs from Las Palmas de Gran Canaria in late November and concludes before Christmas in Saint Lucia. This rally is ideal for families, racing enthusiasts, and cruising couples alike.
ARC Europe – Atlantic Crossing West to East
This rally facilitates a west-to-east Atlantic crossing, starting from the Caribbean or USA and concluding in Portugal via Bermuda and the Azores. The fleets converge in St. George’s, Bermuda, before crossing the Atlantic to the Azores, offering a blend of ocean sailing and cultural immersion.
ARC Portugal – Bay of Biscay South
Cross the Bay of Biscay to Bayona, then daysail south to Marina de Lagos. This rally offers a mix of offshore sailing and coastal cruising, exploring the beautiful Portuguese coastline.
Why Join a WCC Rally?
- Safety and Support: With a legacy of successful ocean cruising rallies since 1986, WCC provides comprehensive advice on all aspects of boat and crew preparation for offshore sailing.
- Community and Camaraderie: Rallies foster a sense of community, allowing participants to forge lasting friendships, share experiences, and enjoy group activities both at sea and ashore.
- Expert Guidance: WCC’s experienced rally teams ensure participants maximize their time ashore and provide peace of mind during sea passages.
Getting Started
All Balance Catamarans meet the specified length requirements for participation. To join a WCC rally, your vessel must have a minimum of two crew members onboard. Additionally, boats are expected to carry mandatory safety and communication equipment, with guidance provided by WCC.
For more details on specific rallies, preparation guidelines, and upcoming events, visit the World Cruising Club’s official website.
Embark on an unforgettable adventure with World Cruising Club and Balance Catamarans, where your sailing dreams become a reality.