Sevenstar Welcome Party: Caribbean vibes before the RORC Caribbean 600
by RORC 22 Feb 16:08 GMT
23 February 2026
After a briefing for skippers taking part in the RORC Caribbean 600, it was time to enjoy the Sevenstar Welcome Party on the lawn at Antigua Yacht Club.
In the presence of the Governor-General, His Excellency, Sir Rodney Williams, The Honourable Everly Paul (E.P.) Chet Greene, and other distinguished guests, competitors enjoyed catching up over a Carib Beer or English Harbour Rum as the iconic sounds of the Panache Steel Orchestra played out across Antigua's Falmouth Harbour.
His Excellency Sir Rodney Williams, Governor-General of Antigua & Barbuda, welcomed sailors, organisers and supporters to Antigua, and extended a warm welcome back to returning competitors. "On behalf of the Government and people of Antigua and Barbuda, it is my great pleasure to welcome you to our shores. We are proud to host this extraordinary event in partnership with the Royal Ocean Racing Club and the Antigua Yacht Club, whose dedication and professionalism continue to make this race one of the most respected offshore challenges in the world. I also wish to recognise the invaluable support of the Antigua & Barbuda Tourism Authority and all sponsors and partners who help bring this event to life."
He went on to congratulate the winners of the RORC Nelson's Cup Series for their exceptional skill and seamanship, praising their contribution to Antigua's full season of sailing. Reflecting on the stature of the RORC Caribbean 600, now approaching two decades, he highlighted the 600-mile course around 11 Caribbean islands as a true test of strategy, endurance and teamwork. Emphasising Antigua & Barbuda's deep maritime heritage, he wished competitors: "Fair winds, strong teamwork and unforgettable moments at sea. May this 17th RORC Caribbean 600 be competitive, safe, and truly exceptional."
Racing Yacht Logistics Specialist, Sander Speet extended a warm greeting to competitors at the Welcome Party, hosted by Sevenstar Yacht Transport. As the official Logistics Partner, they transported several yachts to Antigua for the race and continue to support racing campaigns beyond the Caribbean.
"We're proud to support the RORC Caribbean 600 once again," said Speet. "Our focus is on making yacht transport straightforward and dependable, so teams can concentrate on racing. We're in Antigua to help crews plan their next move and ensure a smooth return, and want to wish all competitors a great party tonight. The team is on hand to help teams plan and execute shipping yachts back to the North America East Coast, Europe or to the Mediterranean, to continue racing programmes there."
To close the welcome speeches, RORC Commodore Deb Fish - taking part in the race for a third time - shared a few words of appreciation: "Thank you to our friends in the Antigua and Barbuda Government, at Antigua Yacht Club - Commodore Clarence Pilgrim and Sailing Manager Karl James. Also, to the Royal Police Force of Antigua and Barbuda, and thank you Sevenstar for sponsoring this party." She went on to recognise the 500 sailors from around the world who had come to compete: "Lastly, we thank you, the competitors for coming. Without you, we wouldn't have a race! Have a fantastic race, enjoy the steel band and party tonight, and I'll see you all next Friday for the prize-giving."
It was time to dance the night away to the DJs classic tunes, giving everyone a chance to let their hair down after all the training, preparation and hard work ahead of Monday's start.
Go to: caribbean600.rorc.org for all the latest news, photos, videos, live blog and race tracker. Check out the RORC social media channels too.