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Navigating the 2024 Caribbean Sailing Circuit: A Journey Through Paradise

26 September, 2023

The Caribbean Sailing Association (CSA) is thrilled to welcome sailors from around the world to experience the exhilarating 2024 Caribbean Sailing Circuit. During the season the Caribbean becomes a melting pot of professional sailors, Corinthian sailors, bareboat racers, cruisers and club racers, who come to compete and enjoy some of the best sailing conditions in the world. The circuit is promoted through the annual CSA Regatta Calendar and lists all international regattas that each offer its own flavor but have unrivaled beauty and vibrant cultures in common.

Kicking off the circuit is Grenada Sailing Week, where the azure waters of Grenada create a stunning backdrop for competitive racing. This event offers a thrilling start to the circuit, attracting racers of all levels. From the novice bareboat racer to the seasoned pro, everyone is welcome to join the fun.

For catamaran and trimaran enthusiasts, the Caribbean Multihull Challenge in St. Maarten is a haven. This event celebrates the art of multihull sailing and is a unique experience within the circuit. Having added a Rally experience, it now caters to those who rather not race their “house” but want to partake in the Regatta fun!

The main offshore event of the circuit, the RORC Caribbean 600, is the ultimate endurance test for sailors. A challenging 600-mile race around 11 of the Caribbean’s most iconic islands, it attracts an impressive line-up of professional and Corinthian crews and for 2024 a fleet of IMOCA’s, Mod 70’s and Volvo 70’s all ready to take on the challenge.

The St. Maarten Heineken Regatta is renowned for its lively atmosphere, on and off the water. World-class racing is paired with “Serious Fun!” through its unforgettable shoreside parties, making this an event that both sailors and spectators anticipate eagerly. This half-Dutch, half-French island is a hub in the Caribbean that is easily accessible and offers high quality marine services and an abundance of culture and cuisine.

Heading further north, St. Thomas hosts its prestigious International Regatta, celebrating its 50th anniversary this year. This event welcomes many one design classes, resulting in a thrilling showcase of local and international talent battling it out on the seas.

The BVI Spring Regatta is a must-visit event, offering thrilling races amidst the idyllic Virgin Island scenery. It’s the perfect opportunity to blend world-class racing with the laid-back Caribbean atmosphere.

Les Voiles de St. Barth combines French flair with Caribbean charm. The regatta is famous for its competitive racing, luxurious hospitality, and an ambiance that captures the essence of this stunning island.

Closing off the season, Antigua Sailing Week, which turns 55 next year, combines heart-pounding races with a laidback social atmosphere consisting of professional sailors, family crews, thrill seekers and podium chasers.  Organizers also encourage yacht charter outfits to be a part of their Rock up & Race campaign before returning to the Mediterranean. This melting pot of sailors and spectators from across the globe makes it easy for anyone to “Race, Chase & Celebrate”, showcasing the spirit of sailing in the Caribbean.

In addition to these flagship regattas, the circuit offers events specifically tailored to niche classes and sailing preferences like the Antigua Classics, a celebration of vintage and classic yachts, preserving the timeless elegance of sailing. The St. Barts Bucket and Antigua Superyacht Challenge showcase the pinnacle of luxury and performance on the water through exclusive events for superyacht owners.

One of the unique aspects of the Caribbean Sailing Circuit is the use of the CSA rating system. CSA President Michele Korteweg says: “This system levels the playing field, ensuring competitive racing across a wide range of boats and skill levels. Whether you’re racing a high-performance monohull, a catamaran, or a classic yacht, the CSA rating system guarantees a fair shot at victory”.

Sailing in the Caribbean also presents the opportunity to savor the distinctive flavors of each host island. From the lush landscapes of Grenada to the lively culture of St. Maarten, every destination promises a unique experience.

The 2024 Caribbean Sailing Calendar showcases the international regattas that bring racing to the region in what is certain to be an incredible journey through paradise. With its variety of regattas catering to all sailing interests and skill levels, coupled with the CSA rating system to ensure high level competition, there’s no better way to experience the Caribbean Racing Circuit. We invite sailors from around the world to set sail on this unforgettable adventure, where the thrill of competition meets the allure of the Caribbean. See you on the water! See the full 5 year calendar below.


About Caribbean Sailing Association:
The Caribbean Sailing Association (CSA) is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting and advancing the sport of sailing in the Caribbean region. With a focus on education, safety, and community engagement, the CSA strives to unite sailing programs, schools, and enthusiasts to elevate the standards of sailing education and events. Through innovative initiatives and collaborative efforts, the CSA aims to foster a vibrant and thriving dinghy sailing community in the Caribbean.

Follow us on social media:
Facebook: @CaribbeanSailingAssociation
Instagram: Caribbean.sailing.association
Website: www.caribbean-sailing.com

It’s Official! Registration is open for the 51st edition of the BVI Spring Regatta & Sailing Festival – April 1-7, 2024

15 September, 2023

The BVI Spring Regatta & Sailing Festival has published its 2024 Notice of Race and opened registration. The week-long event takes place April 1-7 with 5 days of racing in the beautiful waters of the British Virgin Islands with a unique combination of marks and islands for the courses.

The seven-day event starts on Monday April 1 (no joke) with the Sailing Festival opening day festivities and skipper pack collection. The Sailing Festival, a warm-up event, runs Tuesday April 2 and Wednesday April 3, with fun, relaxed racing on the agenda. On April 2, the traditional Round Tortola Race will take sailors on a 36 nautical mile race around the island of Tortola. On April 3, the Scrub Island Invitational will take sailors some 12NM upwind to a fabulous island party hosted by Scrub Island Resort. The relatively short race to Scrub Island gives sailors plenty of time to enjoy the outstanding Scrub Island hospitality.

On Thursday April 4, a lay day will provide sailors, friends, and families the opportunity to explore the local BVI waters, or join in for more sailing fun with dinghy and wing foil racing off Nanny Cay Resort & Marina. It also provides an opportunity for those who are joining just for the BVI Spring Regatta to register and get their racing boats and team ready for the big event: the 51st BVI Spring Regatta, which kicks off on April 5 and runs through April 7, for three days of the Caribbean’s best racing managed by a world-class race management team.

 

The BVI Spring Regatta & Sailing Festival attracts a diverse fleet, include a large bareboat line-up © Ingrid Abery/https://www.ingridabery.com

The Regatta attracts a diverse fleet of boats in addition to a strong bareboat fleet, and whether sailors participate in all five races of the BVI Spring Regatta & Sailing Festival, part or all of the Festival, or the three-day Regatta, there is something for everyone, on the water and shore-side.

Without its sponsors, the BVI Spring Regatta & Sailing Festival simply would not happen. The event is proud of its 2024 sponsors: Nanny Cay Resort & Marina, BVI Tourist Board, Mount Gay, Scrub Island Resort, Marina & Spa, The Moorings, Sol, Portland Ship Yard, Sea Hawk New Nautical Coatings Inc./ Akzo Nobel.

To enter the 2024 BVI Spring Regatta & Sailing Festival sign up HERE and for full information go to: www.bvispringregatta.org

Notice of Race HERE.

ENDS/.. Michelle Slade/BVISR

Peters & May Round Antigua Race

14 September, 2023

The Notice of Race for the 2024 edition of the Peters & May Round Antigua Race is now available. The race, a prelude to the 55th Antigua Sailing Week (ASW), takes place on April 27 and is an independently scored one-day yacht attracting over 30 boats  which making it one of the more competitive circumnavigation races in Antigua & Barbuda .

CSA racing and CSA multi-hull vessels around the region with a valid CSA rating are are eligible to enter this 53 mile race which doubles as a fiercely competitive warm up for the ensuing 5 day series. The race is also a challenging end of season highlight for some that have chosen not to be a part of the ASW regatta because of scheduling conflicts but want to have one last hurrah and try for a prestigious trophy.

Don’t forget that Peters & May, sponsors of the race continue to offer shipping discount for any boats fully entered for Antigua Sailing Week, with a further discount for a round-trip shipment.  They offer Transatlantic routes as well as from the US East Coast to the Caribbean. Right now they are are standing-by ready to assist clients (yacht owners and mangers) who are considering relocating their yachts to the Caribbean – starting as early as November.  If you are interested in a quote or discussing logistics, reach out to Craig Stanbury at craig@petersandmay.com.

Antigua Classic Yacht Regatta Registration is Now Open

14 September, 2023

The Antigua Classic Yacht Regatta committee is pleased to announce that registration is now open for the 35th edition of our regatta. The regatta will be held in Nelson’s Dockyard, Antigua April 17th – 22nd, 2024. Take advantage of the EARLY BIRD REGISTRATION DISCOUNT and register ASAP by clicking here.

Classic yachts will be excited to learn that the Classic Rating Formula will be used for all yachts except for Spirit of Tradition and Modern Classics, where the Caribbean Sailing Association Rating Rule will apply. The Classic Rating Formula is designed specifically for classic yachts and is easy and affordable to obtain.

The fees, classes and everything else you need to know are in the Notice of Race which has now been published here.

Building on the great success and excitement of the 2023 Antigua Classic Regatta we expect over 60 entries this year. We look forward to welcoming new entries and returning friends to Antigua as well as our enthusiastic volunteers, generous sponsors and gifted photographers without whom our regatta would not work.

If you have any queries, please email the regatta coordinator at antiguaclassicsregatta@gmail.com

Martinique Gears Up for 2023 CSA Caribbean Dinghy Championship

14 September, 2023

As the 2023 CSA Caribbean Dinghy Championship (CDC) draws near, the excitement is palpable in the Caribbean sailing community. Hosted by the Cercle Nautique de Schoelcher (CNS) and sanctioned by the Ligue de Voile de Martinique, this regatta is set to combine the thrill of individual class competitions with the fiercely contested Nations Cup. Scheduled from October 27th to 29th, 2023, the CDC promises an electrifying showcase of sailing excellence and camaraderie.

The CDC is renowned for its unique blend of individual class results and the prestigious Nations Cup, which adds a layer of excitement and national pride to the competition. The Nations Cup, won by Antigua in the previous edition, has become a coveted honor among participating nations. With the regatta being hosted in Martinique’s “home waters” this year, the question on everyone’s mind is whether the host nation will leverage their familiarity with the conditions to secure victory in the Nations Cup.

Martinique’s picturesque coastline and rich maritime history make it a fitting backdrop for this esteemed event. The Cercle Nautique de Schoelcher (CNS), as the Organizing Authority, has meticulously prepared to offer participants an unforgettable experience. The fusion of skill, strategy, and passion for sailing is set to create a breathtaking spectacle that pays tribute to the Caribbean’s seafaring legacy.

The participating fleets include ILCA 4, ILCA 6, ILCA 7, Optimist, and Fusion classes, ensuring a diverse range of competitors and showcasing the versatility of Caribbean sailors. Enthusiastic interest has been pouring in from sailing communities across the region, with participants from Sint Maarten, Saint Barths, French Saint Martin, Antigua, and Barbados set to compete.

“In the spirit of friendly competition and cultural exchange, we are thrilled to welcome sailors from various Caribbean nations to our club,” said Guy De Chavigny, of the CNS. “With Martinique’s rich maritime heritage and our knowledge of these waters, we are poised to deliver a regatta that celebrates both individual achievements and the unity of nations.”

As the countdown to the 2023 CSA Caribbean Dinghy Championship begins, sailing enthusiasts, participants, and spectators are invited to witness the high class racing, camaraderie, and sportsmanship that make this event a highlight of the Caribbean sailing calendar.

For more information on the 2023 CSA Caribbean Dinghy Championship, including registration details and event updates, please visit http://www.cnschoelcher.net/ or contact:guy.de-chavigny@wanadoo.fr

Registration is Open! 50th St. Thomas International Regatta Set for Easter Weekend – March 29-31, 2024

7 September, 2023

St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands. Celebrate the 50th anniversary of the ‘Crown Jewel’ of Caribbean Racing! Registration is now open for the 2024 St. Thomas International Regatta (STIR) (yachtscoring.com/emenu.cfm?eid=16227), set for Easter Weekend, March 29-31, 2024. First held in October 1974, and started by St. Thomas Yacht Club (STYC) organizers to attract top international sailors to race in ideal sailing conditions, STIR continues to be the destination for world-class racing. The chance to trade tacks and tactics with professional crews and talented weekend warriors on professionally set round-the-island and round-the-buoy courses attracts first-timers and keeps long-time competitors coming back. What’s more, register also for the Round the Rocks Race (RTR) (yachtscoring.com/emenu.cfm?eid=16226), which will circumnavigate the neighboring island of St. John on March 28. RTR is a terrific opportunity to tune up for STIR and provides an additional chance to land a podium finish. Add the one-stop venue at the STYC, which celebrates 60 years in 2024, with its quintessential beachfront Caribbean vibe and organizers ‘can do’ attitude toward competitors, and it’s easy to see how STIR earned its motto, ‘We Love It Here’ You will too!

Privateer, driven by owner Ron O’Hanley, won the CSA 0 Class at the 2023 St. Thomas International Regatta. Credit: Dean Barnes

“For a half-century, STIR has been a beacon that attracts some of the best sailors, everyone from America’s Cup, Olympic, and one-design World Champions to long-time podium-placing teams from the Caribbean and the U.S. with second and third generations as crew. The polish on this ‘Crown Jewel’ comes from professionally set courses by some of the best race management in the world matched with friendliness, hospitality, and an equally popular club-run event ashore,” says Pat Bailey, who co-directs STIR 2024 with Greer Scholes. “We invite you to register now and race and celebrate with us in March.”

45% Discount on Early Registration

Everyone is invited! STIR 2024 invites CSA (Caribbean Sailing Association-handicap rule), racing, cruising, and bareboat classes; ORC; Large Multihulls; Hobie Waves; and One-Design classes with a minimum length of 20 feet. Register now for STIR 2023: yachtscoring.com/emenu.cfm?eid=16227yachtscoring.com/emenu.cfm?eID=15496. Pay only U.S. $200, or 45% off the regular entry fee, between now and January 31, 2024. From February 1 to March 28, 2024, the entry fee increases to U.S. $370. The entry fee for IC24s is U.S. $260 and for Hobie Waves U.S. $180. A limited number of IC24s and Hobie Waves are available for charter.

Early bird registrants can win customized long-sleeve high-performance team shirts! The name of your registered vessel may be randomly drawn to win this highly coveted prize. The drawing will take place on December 1, 2023.

Charter or BYOB

Chartering makes it especially easy to fly in, jump on a race-ready yacht, and sail! Over half a dozen outfits are offering vessels to charter. for STIR 2024.

One of these is the St. Thomas Sailing Center (STSC) (stthomassailingcenter.com/st-thomas-international-regatta), with its fleet of IC24s. There are a limited number of IC24s available for race charter for STIR 2024. The charter fee is U.S. $3200 with sails. The fee includes the use of an IC24 for the Friday through Sunday event, a practice day on Thursday, and a 30-day membership at the STYC. New for 2024, the STSC is introducing its ‘STIR: Race with a Pro’ option. A limited number of boats have been reserved to participate in this, with an onboard day-and-a-half coaching clinic on March 27 and 28. Teams will practice with a professional coach, who will also race with them in STIR. The clinic portion will be mostly on-the-water practice but will also consist of lectures and video debriefs from cameras on each boat using high-level coaching software. There is also an option for full teams to participate in the clinic without an onboard professional coach. These teams can attend morning briefings, participate in a portion of the drills on the water, and sit in on afternoon debriefs. The cost of the ‘STIR: Race with a Pro’ option is $2500 for an individual and $7000 for a team (maximum weight of 850 pounds including coach), and these prices include the boat charter and sails. The price for the clinic only is $1500 and is for full teams only. The clinic-only fee does not include the boat charter. To reserve, Email: info@stthomassailingcenter.com or call (340) 690-3681.

“What St. Thomas has is premier sailing at a premier venue. Club racers to lifelong professional sailors all compete against each other at one of St. Thomas Yacht Club’s biggest events of the year – STIR. Come March, put down that snow shovel or even just put that sweater away, grab some sunscreen and shorts, and head south to sail pristine blue waters in fifteen to thirty knots of breeze!,” invites Robert ‘Bobby’ Brooks, STSC director.

Fast-paced mark rounding action in the IC24 Class at the 2023 St. Thomas International Regatta. Credit: Dean Barnes

Beyond this, the J/120, J-aguar, which won its class at Antigua Sailing Week this year, is available for charter for STIR 2024 from www.caribbeanraces.com or Email: mrbenjelic@gmail.com.

LV Yachting, based in the UK, is offering five vessels for charter: Pata Negra (Marc Lombard IRC 46), El Ocaso (J/122), Panacea X (Salona 45), Emily of Cowes (Elan 450) and an XP50. To serve, visit www.lvyachting.com or Email: chris.b@lvyachting.com

“Whether you’re a seasoned sailor or a novice looking to experience the thrill of racing, we have the perfect yacht for you. Our yachts range from high-performance Grand Prix racing yachts to comfortable Racer Cruisers, all maintained to the highest standards,” says Chris Bruty, LV Yachting’s marketing manager. “STIR is a great event. The regatta management is excellent, and the racing is amazing, taking you through rocks, cays, and cuts in the beautiful blue water and lovely scenery.”

For those who want to BYOB, or bring their own boat, Caribbean Regatta Logistics, owned and operated by St. Thomas native Ben Beer, can assist owners and teams in bringing their boats to race. Beer handles logistics for big international race teams that compete in the Caribbean such as Vesper, Prospector, Spookie, and all the 72s. (Tel: 340-998-6203; Email: benbeer13@gmail.com), Web: stthomasinternationalregatta.com/faq/caribbean-regatta-logistics/)

The STIR Website will be regularly updated regarding race charter opportunities.

Book Flights and Accommodations Now!

Hands down, STIR is the easiest to reach of all the Caribbean regattas. Host destination, St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands, welcomes direct flights on six major airlines from U.S. mainland gateway cities. These include:

● American Airlines (Charlotte, Dallas, Miami, New York)

● Delta (Atlanta, New York)

● Frontier (San Juan)

● JetBlue (Boston, San Juan)

● Spirit (Fort Lauderdale, Orlando)

● United (Chicago, Newark, Washington-Dulles)

Air Sunshine, Cape Air, Fly The Whale, Sea Flight, and SKYhigh Dominicana are airlines that operate within the Caribbean with service to St. Thomas.

Accommodations on St. Thomas include resorts, hotels, inns, bed and breakfasts, and timeshares. Plus, there are approximately 600 villa units and 200 charter yachts on St. Thomas/St. John. Airbnb listings number over 1,000 in St. Thomas. For more information about the U.S. Virgin Islands, visit: www.visitusvi.com

For more information, visit www.stthomasinternationalregatta.com, Email: manager@stthomasyachtclub.org or Regatta Co-Director Pat Bailey at simpleislandboy51@gmail.com, or call (340) 775-6320. Check STIR out on Facebook (www.facebook.com/stirvi), Twitter @stirvi, and Instagram #STIRVI

Media contact:

Carol Bareuther
Tel: (340) 998-3650
Email: bareuther@earthlink.net
Skype: Carol.Bareuther

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