Antigua Classic Yacht Regatta

By Gilly Gobinet, Managing Editor, Antigua Yacht Classic Programme

Now in its 33rd year, this prestigious and stunning gathering of classic, vintage and traditional yachts from far and wide has become a world-class event on the regatta scene. The perfect sailing conditions and climate of Antigua, and a unique historic, UNESCO-recognised background, are some of its main attractions; but it’s the camaraderie, created and promulgated by its late founder, Kenny Coombs, that has become its true and unique appeal. The event is a great leveller, as Kenny believed that whether you arrived in flip-flops or on a private jet, you all came together in the sun to share a passion for racing beautiful boats with like-minded people, irrespective of your background or status.

The [Antigua Classic Yacht Regatta] is a great leveller, as Kenny believed that whether you arrived in flip-flops or on a private jet, you all came together in the sun to share a passion for racing beautiful boats with like-minded people, irrespective of your background or status.

Currently under a new Classics team, whose aim is to renew the spirit of the regatta, the 2023 edition will take place in Nelson’s Dockyard itself. Starting with the traditional Concours d’Elegance and the Single-Handed Race, this is followed by three days of intense racing interspersed with parties fuelled by beer and/or rum, the sine qua non of the Caribbean. On the last day is the Parade of the Classics in English Harbour, where an enormous crowd of onlookers always delight in the spectacle of these stunning vessels as they pass close to shore. Once prize-giving is over, it’s time for a little R&R, with gig racing using classic dinghies, and cream teas, served by ladies in flowery hats and dresses, at the Admiral’s Inn in the shade of Nelson’s famous pillars.

Photocred: Tim Wright