SVG Sailing Week Delivers Record Participation and Thrilling Competition
St. Vincent and the Grenadines – SVG Sailing Week 2026 concluded on a high note, with top sailors from across the region crowned champions after a week of exhilarating competition. This year’s edition recorded a remarkable increase in participation, with the number of entrants doubling compared to previous years, underscoring the growing appeal of the event.
The week-long regatta officially began on March 29 with the Junior Championships on mainland St. Vincent, highlighting the nation’s commitment to youth development in sailing. The event then transitioned to the Grenadines, culminating in Bequia on April 6 with a series of competitive races across multiple classes.
In addition to the Junior Championships, the 2026 programme featured Racing Class, Cruising Class, J24 Class, and the Canouan CSA Division, offering a dynamic mix of competition for both seasoned sailors and emerging talent.
The grand prize-giving ceremony, held at the Bequia Plantation House, brought together a packed and jubilant crowd of participants, supporters, and stakeholders. Among those in attendance were the Prime Minister of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Dr. The Hon. Godwin Friday, the Minister of Tourism, Civil Aviation, and Sustainable Development, Dr. The Hon. Kishore Shallow, along with other government officials and key partners
Event Director, Aina Browne, was complimentary to the winners and stakeholders for a very successful event. Browne said,
“This year’s SVG Sailing Week reflected the true spirit of camaraderie, sustainability and sporting excellence. We are proud of the growth in participation and the opportunities it continues to create for Vincentians and sailors across the globe. We look forward to building on this momentum and welcoming sailor and sailing enthusiasts in th years to come”
The Prime Minister, in his remarks at the closing ceremony, praised the strong regional participation and the collaborative effort that made this year’s event a resounding success. The regatta delivered high-quality racing and a meaningful boost to tourism and economic activity in Bequia.
SVG Sailing Week continues to position St. Vincent and the Grenadines as a premier sailing destination in the Caribbean, with organisers already looking ahead to an even bigger and better 2027 edition, which is scheduled for March 21 – 29.
For more information, visit: www.svgsailingweek.com
The Full Results:
Bequia Easter Regatta – Racing Class Winners
1st Place – Dingolay II (BER) – Skipper: Mark Chapman
2nd Place – Category 5 (GRN 2005) – Skipper: Richard Szyjan
3rd Place – J Star (00000) – Skipper: Chrystal Young
Bequia Easter Regatta – Cruising Class Winners
1st Place – Nirvana (TR 130) – Skipper: Lloyd DeRoche
2nd Place – Tempest (US) – Skipper: Milton DeRoche
3rd Place – Sea Wyf (TRI5) – Skipper: Enrique Huggins
J24 Class Winners (One Design)
1st Place – Die Hard (GRN 4167) – Skipper: Robbie Yearwood
2nd Place – Glory Daze (BAR 4795) – Skipper: Gus Reader
Canouan Cup – CSA Division Winners
1st Place – The Blue Peter (17) – Skipper: Matthew Barker
2nd Place – Nirvana (TR 130) – Skipper: Lloyd DeRoche
3rd Place – J Star (00000) – Skipper: Chrystal Young
About St. Vincent and the Grenadines
Nestled in the southeastern Caribbean, St. Vincent and the Grenadines is a collection of 32 islands and cays, including the mainland of St. Vincent and world-renowned islands such as Bequia, Mustique, Canouan, and Union Island. Known for its authentic charm, lush landscapes, and eco-luxury experiences, the destination offers an escape where travelers can reconnect with nature, culture, and community.
For more information and travel inspiration, visit www.discoversvg.com or follow @DiscoverSVG on social media.
Media Contact:
Sibongile De Riggs – Marketing Consultant
St. Vincent and the Grenadines Tourism Authority
Tel: (784) 456-6222
Email: svgta@discoversvg.com
Website: www.discoversvg.com
