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  ATLANTIC CHALLENGE USA
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Atlantic Challenge USA is part of an international global network of community boatbuilding, rowing and sailing programs in Bantry Bay gigs. We provide opportunities for personal development, community building, and intercultural understanding.

Our program offerings include:
  • Rowing in Belfast, ME, May - October
  • Training Expeditions on Greens Island and throughout Penobscot Bay, June - August
  • Participation in the Biennial Atlantic Challenge International Contest of Seamanship. Next Contest: Roskilde, Denmark 2026​
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About US
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We are members of Atlantic Challenge International, a global network that is dedicated to the development of young adults, furthering global understanding and building friendly ties internationally. Every two years, a dozen nations convene in a new host location for the Atlantic Challenge International Contest of Seamanship, a weeklong gathering and friendly competition which showcases seamanship skills in a series of rowing, sailing, docking, knot-tying and navigation events.

The Boats we primarily use are Bantry Bay gigs, which are copies of 18th-century French Navy Captain's gigs once used to transport admirals in style. These vessels are 38-feet long and are powered by three, dipping-lug sails and ten oars. Sailing and rowing a gig demands high levels of cooperation and communication among crew members.
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Atlantic Challenge USA is committed to creating a culture of respect, equality, listening, learning, healing, and growth in all our programs. We are committed to creating a safe space for LGBTQ+, Black, Brown, Indigenous, and People of Color to participate in our programs. The outdoors, and boating should be for all people to access and enjoy.

Land Acknowledgement: We acknowledge the ancestral, unceded land and waters of the Penobscot Nation, which was cared for thousands of years, which we now gather on and benefit from for all of our programs. We recognize our responsibility to continue to educate ourselves and work to change public policy towards justice for the indigenous people who still live here.

If you have feedback, suggestions, or ideas to help us create a more just and equitable AC USA program and community, we are listening. Please contact us.
Atlantic Challenge USA
c/o Arista Holden, Executive Director
PO Box 481 
Belfast, Maine 04915

+1 (207) 610-9554

​[email protected]

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We are a registered 501(c)3 tax deductible non-profit. Our EIN: 83-3459645

We are members of the TSCA, and the Belfast Chamber of Commerce
Stay Connected
  • Home
  • New Gig
  • Donate
  • Summer Programs 2025
  • Harbor Rows
  • The Contest of Seamanship
  • Merch
  • Build an Oar