Navigating the Caribbean racing season

The Caribbean international racing season is a few weeks away, and even though some international crews are unable to get to their usual race destinations this year, there are enough crews already in the Caribbean or still able to get here to ensure that the season can go ahead, albeit with modified events.

Most islands continue to operate with health restrictions in place with regards to social distancing, mask wearing and sanitation along with limited gatherings. Even under these trying circumstances, local club sailing has seen an increase in participation and the boats are ready to welcome overseas crews to their annual regattas.

The challenge of quarantine and testing remains one of the biggest hurdles and is different island by island. Each island has to work within the laws set out locally. “If you are planning on moving between islands then the logistical complexities may be better worked out for you by using a management company,” advises Brian Sylvester, Vice President of the Caribbean Sailing Association (CSA).

“Each island has its own locally based companies or regional based company such as BWA. They have representation across the islands and can assist with the logistics of ingress and egress by island on behalf of the yacht and offer advice on testing and the best places to get it. It’s a paid service but may well be the best option for campaigning boats. Another option is contacting the local marine associations.”

To assist with information about the upcoming Caribbean racing season, the CSA is hosting
an online Zoom call on January 12 at 12 pm AST and is open to any crews to ask relevant questions to assist in their planning.

To see the full line up of events, click here.

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