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Atlantic Crossing Prep & Services Guide
The Atlantic crossing is the gateway to ocean cruising for most. The trade-wind route from the Canaries to the Caribbean is one of the most-sailed ocean passages on the planet — and the support infrastructure has evolved accordingly. This guide covers what's available at each major staging point.
Westbound staging
| Stop | Service depth | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Lagos (Portugal) | Strong | Pre-Canaries staging; full services |
| Las Palmas (Canaries) | Strongest hub | ARC departure; everything available |
| Mindelo (Cape Verdes) | Moderate | Final pre-crossing stop |
Eastbound staging
| Stop | Notes |
|---|---|
| Hampton VA / Norfolk | Salty Dawg rally start |
| Newport RI | Northern departure point |
| Bermuda | Mid-Atlantic safety stop |
| Horta (Azores) | Atlantic mid-point hub |
| Continental Europe | Multiple landfall options |
Pre-crossing checklist (high level)
- Rigging — full inspection, swage check, halyard condition
- Sails — repair, UV strip, spare halyards
- Watermaker — service, spare membrane, biocide stocked
- EPIRB battery current, life raft serviced
- Communications — Starlink/Iridium tested, Sailmail ready
- Ditch bag with comprehensive contents
- Fuel — polish if old, top up final port
- Provisions — 30+ days food, water plan
- Insurance — crossing endorsement, crew documented
Frequently asked questions
Main staging?
Westbound: Las Palmas. Eastbound: Bermuda, Horta.
Checklist?
Rigging, sails, watermaker, EPIRB/raft, comms, provisioning.
Peak services?
October–November in Las Palmas/Lagos.
Insurance?
Crossing endorsement required by most policies.
ARC vs solo?
ARC for first-timers; solo for experienced.