The Beach Cat class, reintroduced to the St. Maarten Heineken Regatta in 2016, has generated a significant increase in interest for the current edition of the regatta. In order to help accommodate the special requirements of Beach Cat participants, the organizers have put together a variety of packages to help competitors with their Regatta preparations for the 2017 event. Hotel accommodation, boat transport, boat storage and security are amongst the services offered with competitors able to choose to go all-in or start with the basic package.
“Beach Cat racers have the unique situation when it comes to racing in regattas. Once racing is completed they don’t leave their boats out at anchor or tied to a mooring ball. They bring the boats up onto the beach which poses an issue when it comes to securing the boats overnight. We’ve acknowledged this issue and together with Le Sand Restaurant, Beach & Bar and Le Beach Hotel in Marigot we were able to put together a variety of options for the Beach Cat racers.” explains Regatta Director Michelle van der Werff.
All packages include the most important element which is daily storage for the boats including overnight security. The basic package is comprised of entry fee, a welcome party, lunch on race days, three dinners. Beach Cat racers will get their own Race Committee and safety boats. For the competitors that come from overseas or surrounding islands the Regatta Office offers accommodation and transportation of the boats from Europe.
“We have continued to reach out to our competitors over the years and the issue of security for the Beach Cats as well as hotel packages is something that has come back to us over and over again. We are happy to be able to partner with Le Beach Hotel and Le Sand, so we can offer the competitors what they have been asking for.” adds Van der Werff.
Rates vary per package and competitors are urged to contact the Regatta Office directly in order to choose the one that suits their needs best. Details and costs for the packages are available on the regatta website www.heinekenregatta.com.
Even with entry numbers looking stronger than in any previous year, the St. Maarten Heineken Regatta is still finding new ways to offer its competitors ‘Serious Fun’.
