Marina Puerto Bahía Debuts the Bannister’s Cup Regatta in Samaná Bay
Weekend Recap Video: https://www.instagram.com/reel/DaYDBqiR3sw/
Samaná, Dominican Republic. — The first edition of the Bannister’s Cup Regatta brought together sailors, captains and crews in the naturally protected waters of Samaná Bay, on the northeastern coast of the Dominican Republic, reinforcing Samaná Bay’s growing appeal as a sailing destination in the Caribbean.
Hosted by Marina Puerto Bahía as part of its Marina Weekend 2026, the regatta introduced a new racing sailing competition designed to celebrate the sport, bring together the local and visiting sailing community, and showcase the bay’s potential as a venue for competitive and cruising sailors alike.
The event was endorsed by ADVELCO and featured participation across multiple classes, including monohull and multihull divisions. Over the course of the weekend, sailors experienced the unique setting of Samaná Bay, known for its scenic coastline, protected waters and close connection to some of the Dominican Republic’s most iconic natural attractions, such as Cayo Levantado and Los Haitises National Park.
In the Bannister’s Cup Regatta, Lady M, captained by Joan Rodríguez, took first place in Class A; Xommos, captained by Jorge Abréu Abud, won Class B; and La Novia, captained by George Coutú, was recognized as the winner in the Multihull category.
First Place Award Class A Lady M
Lady M
Beyond the results, the regatta was marked by a strong sense of camaraderie and sportsmanship among captains and crews. Puerto Bahía became a gathering point for sailors both on and off the water, creating an atmosphere that combined competition, community and the shared passion for sailing in one of the Caribbean’s most distinctive bays.
Located within the naturally protected waters of Samaná Bay, Marina Puerto Bahía offers 107 slips for vessels up to 150 feet, along with on-site customs and immigration services, fuel, 24-hour security and access to hotel, dining and recreational amenities. Its location makes it a strategic stop for yachts and cruising boats navigating the Caribbean, particularly those exploring the Dominican Republic’s north and northeastern coasts.
The Bannister’s Cup Regatta formed part of the broader Puerto Bahía Marina Weekend, a four-day nautical and social event that also included the Puerto Bahía Open Fishing Tournament, waterfront gatherings and a closing concert by the Spanish group A Dos Velas at the Marina Plaza.
With this first edition, Puerto Bahía continues to strengthen its role as a nautical hub in the Dominican Republic and to promote Samaná Bay as an attractive destination for sailing, cruising, sportfishing and waterfront experiences in the Caribbean.
This edition was made possible thanks to the special support of the Ministry of Tourism of the Dominican Republic, Grupo Propagás, Bancalari Corredores de Seguros and Banco BDI, as well as the support of the event’s sponsors: Hipermercados Olé, IBI Yachts, IBC Shipyard, Banreservas, Ron Brugal, Motomarina, AFP Reservas, Automarina, The Bannister Hotel, M-Costa, Revista HOLA, True Experience DR, La Vinería Italiana, Arajet Airlines, TIMM Comunicaciones, Cervecería Nacional Dominicana, Abordo Magazine, ISA Grupo Dermatológico, Grupo Cometa, Aqualit and Foodhall Holding.
