The Antigua and Barbuda Ministry of Tourism has unveiled a bold new direction for the island’s iconic spring sailing season with the launch of the Antigua Racing Cup, a high-octane regatta set to debut April 9–12, 2026. Aimed squarely at racing purists, the event promises fast-paced coastal courses, big Caribbean breeze, and nonstop action-while Antigua Sailing Week, which returns April 22–26, 2026, embraces its roots with a reimagined point-to-point cruising format.
“The Antigua Racing Cup is for those on tight schedules who want a fast, focused, and fiercely fun regatta,” said Race Manager Jaime Torres. “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.”
With English Harbour once again serving as the vibrant heart of both events, sailors and spectators alike can expect buzzing race villages, nightly entertainment, and warm island hospitality. Local vendors, beach bars, and live music will continue to bring the shoreside energy Antigua is known for.
Antigua Racing Cup: Racing Elevated
Held just ahead of the busy summer regatta season, the new Antigua Racing Cup is tailored to professional crews, race charters, and Corinthian competitors looking for a tightly run, four-day event. Racers can expect:
- High-energy coastal races in open trade-wind conditions
- Pro-level competition and one-design opportunities
- Optimized format for race charters and racer-cruisers
- A fast, convenient schedule for teams heading to Europe or North America
Antigua Sailing Week: Destination Sailing Reimagined
Returning to its roots as a point-to-point coastal celebration, Antigua Sailing Week 2026 is reinventing itself for a broader audience. The new format welcomes both cruisers and racers with:
- Scenic daily destinations around Antigua
- The option to rally or compete
- Shorter race week to better fit vacation calendars
- After-race socials rich in culture and fun
This strategic shift, according to Minister of Tourism Charles “Max” Fernandez, follows widespread stakeholder consultation and a desire to better serve both ends of the sailing spectrum-from adrenaline-seeking racers to laid-back coastal cruisers.
“We anticipate a period of sailing in Antigua that better serves everyone,” Fernandez said. “Dedicated racers and social cruisers alike will find a home here, as we celebrate everything we love about sailing in Antigua & Barbuda.”
One Glorious Month of Sailing
In addition to the Antigua Racing Cup and Antigua Sailing Week, the April 2026 yachting calendar will also include the Antigua Classic Yacht Regatta, which this year adds a new Model Boat Race-a family-friendly celebration of craftsmanship within the local yachting community.
As Antigua & Barbuda continues to evolve its yachting vision, one thing remains the same: world-class sailing, rich maritime traditions, and an island culture that knows how to celebrate.
Event details and registration: sailingweek.com antiguaracingcup.com