It’s the final day before the #serioussailing starts at the St. Maarten Heineken Regatta. The majority of the 120 boats from over 22 countries have already registered , a seamless process handled by St. Maarten Heineken Regatta’s team of volunteers. Skippers leave with Heineken waterproof race packs, filled with complimentary cans of Heineken, and a range of other goodies from the event sponsors including a free SIM card provided by UTS to stay connected.
After completing registration and clearing customs, conveniently located together in Regatta Village, the crews have plenty of time for last minute preparations for tomorrow’s racing. With a fresh breeze blowing, many boats have chosen to get out to the race areas for some practice, giving the crew and navigators some vital pre race insight. Race Director Paul Miller and his team of race officers are paying close attention to the weather. The predicted wind conditions for tomorrow are gusts of around 25-28 knots, which is due to drop to around 14-17 knots, as the wind turns to the south. “We’re seeing a period of vertical instability in the weather,” says Paul Miller “It’ll be really exciting out there with waves whipped up to around 1.9m.” With all races finishing at the Heineken mark by Simpson Bay, crowds will be gathering to see the fleet streaming back through the lifting bridge after the racing, ready for live music by The Elovaters, delicious food and cold Heineken, as the St. Maarten Heineken Regatta Village comes to life as more than 2,000 sailors, supporters, families and friends get together for #seriousfun.
