Travelers from around the world are already preparing to arrive on the island of Antigua when its 2020 Antigua Sailing Week begins. A world-class yacht racing event, it is described by one expert as “one of the most all-encompassing, challenging and competitive on the Caribbean Yacht Racing circuit.” With dates running from April 25 through May 1, it is a primary cause for thousands to head to the area and check out the action on the waters and on shore.
In fact, many yacht owners and races make a point of booking luxury villas on land in order to attend many of the celebratory events, as well as maintaining their yachts with full provisions throughout the race week.
The Annual Antigua Regattas
Noted for its trade winds and the flawless beaches and scenery, Antigua has long been a preferred choice for sailing competitions. Few other locations can offer what is necessary for attracting such exclusive and discerning competitors and yacht racers. In fact, the Antigua Regattas have only grown in esteem over the decades with many skilled sailors viewing them as the superior competition of the season.
The week-long event kicks off at the historic and picturesque Nelson’s Dockyard on St. John’s on Antigua. It is anticipated that roughly 200 yachts will compete in different events. Every year, there are more than 20 nations represented amongst yachts and more than one thousand sailors in the competition
There are five iconic races as well as a long list of onshore activities. As one sailing article notes, “The main focus for 2020 is the same as it has always been – great racing. Shoreside, the objective is providing the best opportunities for sailors to get together to celebrate the day’s results with Daily Prize Givings at the ASW event village. Additional non-race events for the sailors and spectators include partying together at Reggae in the Park, Lay Day fun on the beach, and the family-styled Dockyard Day. In addition, the Friday before the regatta will feature the Neon Rave English Harbour Rum Party, as the unofficial opening party.”
Of course, it isn’t only about the party scene, as that same article notes, saying: “Nelson’s Dockyard and Falmouth Harbour, and the strip in between, has well-established restaurants and bars, plus a few new ones well-worth exploring. “
According to The Telegraph, those spots include Abracadabra, which is “legendary with locals, being a stalwart of the island’s nightlife for more than 30 years. Early in the evening, it is a popular Italian restaurant, transforming into a nightclub on selected weekends.”
Life on the Corner is another option and is “where Dockyard drive meets Falmouth Harbour, this colorful wooden bar with a corrugated tin roof is a popular place to hang out during the season.”
There are also the official partners of the race week, including Bar-B’s, Cambusa, Cloggy’s, the Club House, Colibri, Flatties, the Galley Bar, La Brasserie D’Antigua, Mainbrace at Copper & Lumber Store, Pillars at Admirals Inn, Pirates Pizza, Ristorante Paparazzi, Seabreeze Café, South Point Restaurant, The Boom!, and Trappas.
And for those who require provisioning, supplies as well as “water and fuel are available in English Harbour at Antigua Slipway; in Falmouth Harbour at the Port Authority Dock, Antigua Yacht Club Marina, Falmouth Harbour Marina and Catamaran Marina; and in Jolly Harbour at Jolly Harbour Marina.”
Where to stay
And if staying onboard is not a desirable option, there are luxury villas such as amazing Turtle View sitting just above Falmouth Harbour and offering amazing views of the race courses. With four bedrooms and luxury amenities, it is a great spot for family or friends. There is also Carib House with five bedrooms and amazing views of Turtle Bay.
If it is an English Harbour view or location, nothing compares to the stunning Victory House with its eight bedrooms and waterfront location. There is also Alagana House with its views, Lime Hill just over the bay, and offers an amazing spot to watch some racing, and Falmouth Delight sitting just above the harbour.
For anyone eager to book any luxury villas ahead of the week, now is the time to select from the different options offering great amenities and views. The schedule is already set and events are already being organized.
The Antigua Regattas of 2020
The winner of the 2020 Antigua Regattas will take home the Lord Nelson Trophy, and the schedule for the Antigua Regattas is as follows:
- April 25 – Peters and May Round Antigua Race along the south coast of the island.
- April 26 – Official Race Day 1 with courses confirmed each morning. There will also be a Shirley Heights Lookout breakfast and a spectator boat that chases the race departing from Falmouth Harbour
- April 27 – Day 2 is around the south coast with courses confirmed each morning.
- April 28 – Day 3 is around the south coast with courses confirmed each morning. This is also the Reggae in the Park date to be held at the National Park beginning at 5 PM.
- April 29 – Enjoy the famous Lay Day Beach Party at Pigeon Point Beach along with the RS Elite Challenge at Pigeon Point
- April 30 – Day 4 is around the south coast with courses confirmed each morning.
- May 1 – Day 5 is around the south coast with courses confirmed each morning. That evening is the Antigua Sailing Week Awards and the famous After Party at Nelson’s Dockyard.
- May 2 – National Parks Authority Dockyard Day is a wonderful event with a children’s procession, different island prize-giving events and a huge array of parties that mark the end of another fun year of Antigua Regattas. Beating of the Retreat begins at 5:15 PM
Consider booking on land and enjoying luxury villas and their amazing amenities. Watch the races from the comfort of your own poolside deck or private living spaces, and learn why so many people make a point of enjoying time in Antigua during its annual Sailing Week events.