The Caribbean sailing calendar is getting a high-octane refresh, and Antigua and Barbuda is at the helm. The twin-island nation has announced a bold new vision for its storied yachting scene, launching the inaugural Antigua Racing Cup while ushering in a fresh format for the renowned Antigua Sailing Week. Both events, set for April 2026, underscore a sharpened focus: deliver world-class experiences that serve the full spectrum of the international sailing community—without sacrificing the soul of the sport or the spirit of the islands.
Slated for April 9–12, 2026, the Antigua Racing Cup is designed for those who crave adrenaline, precision, and pace. Crafted with competitive sailors in mind, this four-day regatta offers fast-paced, coastal racing under some of the finest sailing conditions in the Caribbean—warm trade winds, expansive seas, and short distances to shore.
"The Antigua Racing Cup is for those on tight schedules who want a fast, focused, and fiercely fun regatta, while Antigua Sailing Week returns to its cruising roots."Jaime Torres, Race Manager
Expect variations of Antigua’s celebrated southern coast courses, dialed in for maximum performance. The event is timed strategically within the global sailing calendar, allowing professional teams and Corinthian crews alike to compete before continuing on to summer circuits.
Onshore, the energy continues in English Harbour, where a packed social lineup of nightly live music, themed parties, and local artisan markets will reflect Antigua’s rich hospitality and flair.
Just ten days later, from April 22–26, 2026, Antigua Sailing Week sets its sights on destination sailing with a point-to-point format that emphasizes scenic routes and daily coastal adventures. With each day’s race ending at a different corner of the island, the format encourages exploration, camaraderie, and, of course, some lighthearted competition.
Sailors can choose to cruise or compete, as additional markers will be dropped in for those chasing more tactical challenges. The event welcomes a mix of boat types—from bareboat charters to rally-style crews—without compromising on the post-race pleasures that have long defined ASW: beach barbecues, local music, and a heavy dose of sun-soaked fun.
"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. 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."Charles “Max” Fernandez, Minister of Tourism
The sailing month will also include the Antigua Classic Yacht Regatta, now featuring a Model Boat Race, showcasing the craftsmanship of the local yachting community and inviting multigenerational participation.
Together, the Antigua Racing Cup and Antigua Sailing Week offer something few destinations can: dual formats tailored to distinct audiences, unified by a shared love for the sea and celebration. These events mark not just a revitalization of the island’s maritime offerings but a strategic step in shaping the Caribbean’s future as a sailing capital.
Whether navigating a sleek race charter or lounging on a cruising catamaran, April 2026 in Antigua and Barbuda will be a month where precision and pleasure sail side by side.