practicalboatowner · video

What this video covers

Crewing on an ARC transatlantic crossing without a pre-arranged berth is possible but requires arriving in Las Palmas before most boats are already fully crewed.0:13 Rachel Hibbard, comms manager for World Cruising Club, explains that skippers prioritize interpersonal fit, a relaxed attitude, and willingness to cook, clean, and make repairs over pure sailing ability.Watch Backpackers who look presentable, post notices around the marina, and register on oceancrewlink.com — a free crew-finding site where both crew and skippers advertise — improve their chances.1:19 Hibbard notes that crew gaps still open late in Las Palmas as minor disputes arise or skippers need help with children or cooking.0:20 Practical requirements include holding a return plane ticket from the Caribbean, since customs on the other side demands proof of onward travel; skippers sometimes help with paperwork.0:30 World Cruising Club also hires a marina minibus driver each year, a role that puts candidates in direct contact with skippers across the large Las Palmas ARC base.1:42

More from practicalboatowner

Behind the scenes at the Wayfarer factory – a tour of Hartley BoatsJul 2026Testing the Orca Navigation System over 450 milesJun 2026The super stable Wayfarer Weekender – on test with three kids!Dec 2025Seized Flywheel? How to Use a Three-Legged Puller the Right Way | Practical Boat OwnerSept 2025

From practicalboatowner — see the channel’s boat, crew, and every analysed video.

The Sailing Directory Newsletter

One email with the fleet's best finds — the moments, boats, and stories worth your watch time. Enter your own address to get your own copy.