World ARC 2024-25 Update – Saint Lucia: After a full week of events, briefings, boat maintenance and getting to know each other, the fleet had a chance to let their hair down last night at the Saint Lucia Tourism Authority Farewell Party held at L’Epicure & Terrace at Mystique Royal.
It was an honour to welcome many dignitaries from Saint Lucia to include the Minister of Tourism, Investment, Creative Industries, Culture, and Information, The Honourable Dr. Ernest Hilaire. In his speech, the Minister said, “I am really humbled to meet a group of people sailing so far. You must be the busiest people in the world. You will have an epic journey.
Last year, I met the people, like you, setting off around the world on an ARC rally and they were all very normal. In April, when they return, I will meet them again and see just how much they’ve remained normal”
“You will make tremendous memories and I am just glad that Saint Lucia has played such a pivotal role in your adventure. May you be fully blessed as you start your journey.”
The Minister of Tourism then handed over to Mrs. Anya Whitfield, Chief Financial Officer and Officer in Charge for Saint Lucia Tourism Authority. She said, “I am proud to be associated with such a remarkable event. You must be a very courageous, yet crazy, team. We are delighted to offer our consistent support to World Cruising Club, who make a high contribution to our shores with their rallies. We look forward to welcoming you back to Saint Lucia in 2025.”
She then went on to remind the participants to visit some of Saint Lucia’s highlights before leaving, siting the rich culture, great cuisine and breathtaking sites such as The Pitons.
The final speaker was Mrs. Alana Raymond, Deputy General Manager of IGY Rodney Bay Marina who said, “I just want to acknowledge your remarkable courage. Having you in IGY Rodney Bay Marina has been our pleasure. You must all be crazy. Brave, but crazy! Ahead of you is the promise of new friendships. We shall see you in 2025, when we will celebrate the safe return of the boats and talk about the unforgettable experience of your amazing journey.
She finished by making the crowd laugh by advising them that if they wanted to go into an IGY marina anywhere in the world, then she was sure they could get a discount by mentioning Sean Devaux’s name – the general manager of IGY Rodney Bay Marina!
Alana’s final words touched everyone when she said, “May your sails be full and your hearts even fuller.”
Following the speeches, the DJ turned up the volume and everyone danced the night away.