Racing in Paradise: Superyacht Challenge Antigua Ready to Set Sail
by Louay Habib 2 Mar 22:19 GMT
4-8 March 2026
121ft Dykstra sloop Action at Superyacht Challenge Antigua © Cory Silken
The 15th edition of the Superyacht Challenge Antigua returns to Nelson's Dockyard, Antigua from 4-8 March 2026, bringing together an exceptional fleet for four days of spirited racing in Antigua with laid-back parties in one of the most beautiful natural harbours in the world.
Organised by Superyacht Challenge Antigua in affiliation with the Antigua and Barbuda Sailing Association and sanctioned by the SuperYacht Racing Association, the regatta remains proudly non-commercial. The emphasis is simple: safe, competitive racing and an unforgettable experience for owners, guests, captains and crew, both afloat and ashore.
A Magnificent Fleet of Character and Contrast
The 2026 line-up once again showcases ten magnificent superyachts, the diversity that defines this regatta is exceptional. From towering schooners to sleek modern sloops, each yacht brings its own personality to the regatta.
The majestic Adix, the 213ft three-masted gaff schooner, will be impossible to miss as she sweeps across the start line, while the unique Hetairos, at 218ft, combines sheer scale with formidable performance. Classic elegance is also represented by the 140ft German Frers ketch Rebecca, while the 148ft Dubois ketch Catalina blends refined lines with serious offshore capability.
At the performance end of the spectrum, yachts such as the 121ft Dykstra sloop Action, the Spirit 111 Geist, and the Swan 90 Hummingbird promise tight tactical racing. Hoek-designed siblings Linnea Aurora and Namuun bring their distinctive profile to the fleet, while the 90ft Tripp design Prevail adds further depth to an already compelling entry list.
What unites them all is not just scale or beauty, but a shared commitment to racing well, racing fairly and participation in wonderful parties ashore.
Tactical Waters, Pursuit Precision
The racing arena off Antigua’s south coast is as dramatic as it is tactical. The start and finish line lie is at Fort Charlotte at the eastern entrance to English Harbour, high above the Pillars of Hercules. An optional Round Antigua Race / Part-Island Race and three series races are scheduled over five days. The courses weaving between laid inflatable marks such as Nelsons, Rupert and Curtains. Distances vary from fast 11-mile sprints to testing 30-mile challenges, ensuring variety across the series.
The regatta opens with the optional Round Antigua Pursuit Race — a 46.8-nautical-mile anticlockwise circumnavigation of the island — or the shorter Part-Island Race. Thereafter, pursuit-format series races reward precise timing, boat handling and strategic decision-making, with each yacht assigned its own start time. The format ensures safe and competitive encounters across the fleet and thrilling finishes off the harbour entrance.
Safety and seamanship are central to the event. Laser rangefinders and GPS trackers are issued to every yacht, reinforcing the regatta’s proactive approach to safe superyacht racing.
The Gosnell Trophy – The Ultimate Honour
While class victories are celebrated with rum barrels suitably filled, the regatta’s most coveted prize is the Gosnell Trophy, which is awarded after a vote by the competitors and the race committee. The superyacht that has competed in the Spirit of the Regatta, both afloat and ashore is the criteria, the trophy recognises not just speed, but sportsmanship and excellence throughout the event.
More than a silver cup, the Gosnell Trophy embodies the spirit of the Superyacht Challenge Antigua: competitive but respectful, ambitious yet full of fun. To lift it is to have mastered the character of the regatta itself.
Racing and Celebration
The week begins with registration and a welcome cocktail party. Racing starts in earnest on Thursday with the Round Antigua or Part-Island Race with fabulous parties every night after racing. The Famous Cook Off — this year themed “Under the Sea” is a great night. The regatta concludes with the final series race and Prize Giving at the Admiral’s Inn, between the Pillars.
More Than a Regatta
Now in its 15th year, the Superyacht Challenge Antigua has become a highlight of the Caribbean season. Its appeal lies not only in the quality of racing, but in its atmosphere: mutual respect on the water, camaraderie ashore and the rare opportunity to race extraordinary yachts in an extraordinary place.
For more information visit superyachtchallengeantigua.com