Help the Caribbean by Coming to the Caribbean

The Antigua and Barbuda Marine Association, the organization which is the unified voice of the yachting industry in Antigua and Barbuda, shares this update following Hurricane Irma.

We were very lucky here in Antigua to escape the recent storms; the island is virtually unscathed. We have been overwhelmed by and very grateful for all your messages of support.

As we gear up for another Caribbean yachting season, our boatyards, marinas, docks and anchorages are intact and for our charter and service companies, it’s business as usual. Planning for our upcoming regatta season continues apace as we look forward to some brilliant sailing and yachting.

Here is a snapshot of the events we already have planned for what promises to be an unforgettable season:

Antigua Charter Yacht Show
AYC Round the Island Race
Antigua Superyacht Challenge
Jolly Harbour Valentine’s Regatta
Antigua 360
10th RORC Caribbean 600
Antigua Classic Yacht Regatta
Antigua Sailing Week
Antigua to Bermuda Race

Antigua continues to offer the perfect winter escape – sunshine, steady trade winds and, of course, our famous Antiguan hospitality.

Even though the hurricane devastated many islands, including our sister island of Barbuda, we know that the region will bounce back stronger than ever. The beauty of our islands and people, combined with our passion for yachting, will continue to win people over from around the world and ensure that events and the communities that host them overcome obstacles and remain ready to welcome you back to their shores.

“Many people have been in touch to check that Antigua is still up and running,” reports Franklyn Braithwaite, President of the Antigua and Barbuda Marine Association. “We thank them immensely for their concern for our island; we have been lucky. Many people have asked how they can help the affected islands. My best advice is to come to the region in the coming season as planned. I have told people not to change their plans, register early for events and come and enjoy your favourite yachting destinations. That will ensure that our economies continue to receive much needed support throughout the regatta season.”

To assist our island neighbours, a Caribbean Cocktail and Fundraiser will be held during the Southampton Boat Show on Thursday 21st September at the Peters & May stand. If you would like to attend please RSVP to marketing@sailingweek.com. Funds raised for relief efforts at the event will be shared equitably among the islands of Barbuda, St. Maarten/St. Martin, St. Barths, Anguilla, BVI and USVI.

To specifically help Barbuda, a list of reputable agencies collecting donations can we found here.

The docks at Falmouth Harbour Marina looking left to the Antigua Yacht Club Marina and out to the harbour.

Slipway Boat Yard taken from the docks in Nelson’s Dockyard Marina with the newly restored Clarence House to the left.

Jolly Harbour Marina looking across to Jolly Harbour Boat Yard.

Antigua Yacht Club Marina taken from upstairs at the Antiga Yacht Club complete with ABSAR rib on its boat lift.