Antigua and Barbuda has announced the launch of a new racing cup to add to its long-established Antigua Sailing Week and expand the twin-islands’ offering for yachting.

The Antigua and Barbuda Ministry of Tourism, Civil Aviation, Transportation and Investment made the announcement that The Antigua Racing Cup will take place from April 9 – 12, 2026, kicking off a month of sailing events in the islands’ yachting calendar.

“This exciting new and strategic direction comes after consulting with all our stakeholders, both at the community level and those directly involved in the yachting sector,” said Charles “Max” Fernandez, Minister of Tourism, in a press release statement.

“We anticipate a period of sailing in Antigua that better serves everyone, dedicated racers and social cruisers, while celebrating everything we love about sailing in Antigua & Barbuda.”

The Antigua Racing Cup

The Antigua Racing Cup will be an event for those who prefer high-energy, coastal racing with a fast-paced schedule and a focus on competition.

The program will consist of four days of races in conditions with a balmy temperature, trade winds, and big seas at very short distances from shore. Onshore, the bars, restaurants and beach venues of English Harbour will host nightly events, including live music, themed parties and cultural celebrations, while local vendors and artisans will offer their wares.

Following the new event, Antigua Sailing Week will take place from April 22 – 26, 2026, offering traditional point-to-point sailing where each day’s sailing will conclude at a different scenic destination.

“The Antigua Racing Cup is for those on tight schedules who want a fast, focused, and fiercely fun regatta,” said Race Manager Jaime Torres in a press release statement.

“While Antigua Sailing Week returns to its cruising roots. Having two separate events, each with a narrower focus, will allow us to deliver a more immersive and enriching yachting experience to a wider audience,”

The 2026 sailing calendar will also feature the Antigua Classic Yacht Regatta with the introduction of a Model Boat Race showcasing boats built by the local yachting community.

For more information, visit sailingweek.com and antiguaracingcup.com.