Racing from Antigua to Bermuda is back

After a two-year pause, the fifth edition of the Antigua Bermuda Race will resume from Antigua on April 29, 2026. Timed just after Antigua Sailing Week and ahead of SailGP Bermuda on May 9-10, the race provides an opportunity to revive interest in the western Atlantic’s longest ocean challenge.

The 935nm offshore race is open to IRC and CSA Racing Yachts, Cruiser Racers, Super Yachts, and Multihulls. Classic yachts and double-handed teams have their own category, and a secondary motor sailing handicap in the CSA Classes allows yachts to use their engines and still get a result, subject to a time penalty.

Meg Reilley, having raced her Canadian Pogo 12.50 Hermes II in the two previous editions, enjoyed the chance to surf real ocean waves.

“The first few days of the race can be a sleigh ride. Reaching in the tradewinds, Hermes effortlessly coasts between waves, impressing her crew as she holds double-digit speeds so gracefully. With the perfect sail plan and trim, she drives herself; and all you need to do is just sit back and enjoy the ride.”

The Antigua Bermuda Race is governed by CAT 1 World Sailing Offshore Safety Requirements, with additional requirements for offshore communications.

“The origin of the modern race was as a feeder race for the 2017 America’s Cup, but the course from Antigua to Bermuda is a long-established route for oceanic yachts,” noted Race Chair and Past Commodore Les Crane. “With the high current ocean freight rates, the Antigua Bermuda Race offers a great option to take your boat north out of the Caribbean in a safe, economic, and highly enjoyable way.

“Over the previous four editions of the race, conditions have ranged from the thrill of surfing down Atlantic rollers at full speed, to glassy calms where tactics and strategy come to the fore. The Antigua Bermuda Race delivers a transatlantic experience without the time and logistics required to cross the great ocean.”

The 2026 Notice of Race is online while the 2023 Sailing Instructions remain posted for reference. The entry platform will open on November 15. Prospective entrants are asked to complete the online survey of interest.

Details: https://antiguabermuda.com/race-info

Source: ABR