Cruise South with ARC Portugal
ARC Portugal sails across the Bay of Biscay from Plymouth to Baiona, before day-sailing down the coast of Portugal to Marina de Lagos on the Algarve. In every port there is a program of social activities or tours ashore, making ARC Portugal one of the most social of rallies.
"ARC Portugal is a very friendly and sociable way to reach the Algarve from the UK, with good sailing between well spread ports - so good we've done it twice” John Easteal, yacht Fair Encounter (GBR)
ARC Portugal 2025 Schedule
| Date |
Details |
Miles |
| 22 May |
Rally office opens in Plymouth |
|
| 25 May | Stage 1: Plymouth to Baiona |
550 NM |
| 3 June |
Stage 2: Baiona to Póvoa de Varzim |
50 NM |
| 7 June | Stage 3: Póvoa to Figueira da Foz |
65 NM |
| 10 June | Stage 4: Figueira to Nazaré |
35 NM |
| 12 June | Stage 5: Nazaré to Oeiras | 70 NM |
| 15 June | Stage 6: Oeiras to Sines | 50 NM |
| 17 June | Stage 7: Sines to Lagos | 75 NM |
| 18 June | Final prize giving in Lagos | |
Exploring Ashore
ARC Portugal is more than a passage south to the sun. Social activities in every port, and complimentary visits ashore to explore ancient cities and fishing villages make the rally much more of a holiday. The leisurely pace of the rally provides time for shore visits, provisioning and crew changes, so you can sail with a range of family and friends.
Socialising
In each destination we hold a social activity; a mix of prizegivings, drinks receptions, buffets, crew dinners and BBQs. Some of these are informal, some an excuse to put on a shirt and jacket or dress for the evening.
Tours Ashore
An integral part of ARC Portugal is the shore based sightseeing excursions. These offer an insight into the history and landscape of Spain and Portugal, and a chance to see the country beyond the ports. The programme is always varied with something for everyone, but there is also free time to organise your own visits, or to just relax and enjoy the sunshine.
“The trip exceeded all expectations. The best cruising experience we have ever been involved in. The staff and organisation were superb. Such great fun too. Would highly recommend.”
Steve and Babs Leach, yacht With Dignity, ARC Portugal 2016