Superyacht Challenge Antigua
About
Staged from the entrance to English Harbour, one of the Caribbean's most storied yachting anchorages, the Superyacht Challenge Antigua brings together an exclusive fleet of vessels in excess of 80 feet for four days of spectacular offshore racing each March. The courses — five races of approximately 12 to 30 miles each — are set daily according to prevailing conditions along Antigua's beautiful south coast, making full use of the island's reliable trade winds and varied headlands.
Racing format and course
The event uses the ORCsy rating rule, enabling a mixed fleet of superyachts to race competitively on corrected time. Entry is deliberately limited to 12–15 yachts, a decision taken to ensure the magnificent facilities at Nelson's Dockyard can comfortably accommodate the fleet and provide an unhurried, premium experience. There is no title sponsorship — a deliberate policy that keeps the regatta free from commercial obligations and focused entirely on fair racing and good companionship.
Nelson's Dockyard as event base
Nelson's Dockyard, a UNESCO World Heritage Site inside English Harbour, serves as the social and logistical hub for the regatta. Berthing within the Dockyard places participating yachts at the heart of one of the Eastern Caribbean's finest historic anchorages, with direct access to the event's shore-side programme. The event is hosted by the Admiral's Inn and Antigua Rigging in association with National Parks Antigua, ensuring professional support for both the racing organisation and any technical requirements that arise during the event.
For owners, guests and crew
The Superyacht Challenge Antigua is designed exclusively for the enjoyment of superyacht owners, their guests, and their crews. Alongside the racing, a relaxed social programme of parties and gatherings runs throughout the four days, balancing competitive sailing with the convivial atmosphere that the event is known for. The combination of challenging offshore courses, a picturesque base in English Harbour, and an intimate fleet makes this one of the most sought-after invitations in the superyacht calendar.
For entry information and further details, contact the SYCA committee: Paul Deeth at ptdeeth@aol.com or +1 268 464 7081, or Stan Pearson at stan@antiguarigging.com or +1 268 464 2388. Full information is also available at the official website.