Beatriz Calzada, president of the Port Authority, has sealed the continued presence of the emblematic sailing event in the Gran Canaria capital by formally renewing its cooperation framework. The official agreement with World Cruising Club Limited addresses the logistics of the Atlantic Rally for Cruisers (ARC) and its ARC+ version by setting that the UK promoter will assume a cost of €527,805 for each annual edition. The amount ensures financial backing for the crossing to the Caribbean from the Dársena de Embarcaciones Menores.
The signing of the deal establishes a validity period of two years with an option to extend, reducing the direct financial exposure of public coffers. The contribution committed by the Port of Las Palmas is capped at a maximum of €20,500 per year, split between €14,500 for the production of the institutional farewell ceremonies and €6,000 for the setup of four administrative assistance modules.
Reserved berthing slots and control of the marina
The text signed by Beatriz Calzada governs the occupation of the so-called ‘Marina Las Palmas’, authorizing a maximum reservation of 225 berths for the traditional ARC regatta and 150 for the ARC+ category. The document rules out automatic discounts for use of the facilities: more than 250 vessels and 1,000 crew members registered for the event will be required to manage their berth authorizations individually, paying the corresponding fees under the applicable port ordinance.
The conditions set by the Port Authority also restrict the maneuverability of participants in the capital’s bay. The regulatory framework imposes an absolute ban on anchoring outside the reserved perimeter in Playa de Las Alcaravaneras, forcing any vessel without a mooring or assigned space to leave the port waters. The organizing company will complete its rollout with the installation of two commercial sales modules and the commitment to promote the port base brand across the international network of nautical boat shows.
The story, ‘Calzada secures the ARC’s continuity in Las Palmas by setting the annual cost for the UK organization at €527,000’, was first published on canarymaritime.com.
