All of those involved with the Atlantic Rally for Cruisers (ARC) were deeply saddened to learn of the death of Michael Grote, skipper of Irie Life sailing with ARC+ 2019, who passed away on 25 November. Michael’s passing of natural causes followed a period of feeling unwell and the cause of death is yet to be confirmed.
Assistance and support has been supplied by ARC+ organisers World Cruising Club, MRCC Martinique, a merchant ship and other yachts in the fleet sailing in proximity to Irie Life. Crew members on board the yacht chose to continue to Saint Lucia to make landfall - a tremendous achievement for them to complete the ocean crossing following Michael’s passing. Their arrival on 5th December has been handled by the relevant local authorities with the assistance of IGY Rodney Bay Marina and the Events Company Saint Lucia.
Our thoughts and deepest sympathies are with Michael’s family, friends and fellow crew. We ask that the privacy of the crew and family is respected following an Atlantic crossing under these tragic circumstances.