Never appealed to me but clearly, the challenge is irresistible for some. OK, so you can 'tick it off' on your completed 'list' but there has got to be more to it than that ? Some sailors make the crossing for charity and some simply do it because 'it is in their blood'.

Hitch a ride in someone else's bunk or use your own boat? Advantages for both but I would probably chose the latter albeit the financial outlay would be considerable. Go it alone or make the crossing with like minded people and not suffer the wilderness that a lone crossing would present – a no brainer!

Join the ARC I hear you say but have you heard about the RORC Transatlantic Race? Only in its second year the race is organised by the Royal Ocean Racing Club and the International Maxi Association and goes from Lanzarote to Grenada. This year the race has attracted yachts from 40 to 100 feet from 14 different nations. The fastest yachts could complete the race in just six days, but the majority of the fleet will be at sea for two weeks or more and will complete the 3,000 nautical mile race at Port Louis Marina, Grenada.

Boatshed HQ were there to witness the fleet heading off after passing the Puerto Calero marker just north of Playa Blanca, Lanzarote. The leading MOD 70 appeared round the headland, powered by NE 15 - 20 knot Trade Winds taking her through between Lanzarote & Fuertuventura.

The race is now in its 6th day and the two leading boats ( MOD 70 – USA & MOD 70 - UK) have only 437.1 nm & 504.3 nm to go respectively – they are doing well. For a more concise update from the official website click here.

So, if you are keen to take up the challenge – it's not just the ARC that may appeal to you.

Barbara Spittal - Boatshed HQ Team,
3rd December 2015