BACK TO ST BARTHS
It is action stations for everyone in the superyacht sailing business this month. Regatta organisers are busy finalising the details.
Everyone appreciates that this year’s edition will be significant as many events are keen to make a strong comeback following a two-year absence due to the pandemic.
Captains and crew are busy preparing their yachts for racing, a different mode entirely from cruising and exhibiting at boat shows. It is lean, mean and leaves no prisoners for excess weight, a bit like a gruelling detox in January.
Yacht suppliers are on speed dial, their phones ringing off the hook for new sails, rigging, hardware, yacht maintenance, and general repairs.
Hallelujah! The superyacht sailing season is finally here. Big boat yacht racing has returned, and we have never been more regatta ready.
Are you?
THE ST BARTHS BUCKET 17 – 20 MARCH
St Barth’s is a destination with a capital D. Each season the glitterati descend on this magical island for big parties at Christmas and New Year. I spent the Millennium in St Barth’s and have never witnessed so many people living their best lives. The playground of the rich and famous indeed.
In March the superyacht sailors come together to sailing their beautiful superyachts and to hang out with family and friends in havaianas. Many hail from Newport and the East Coast swapping snow for winter sun. The sand is white, and the vibe is effortless laid back European. It is hard to beat lunch at Shell Beach after a long day of superyacht racing.
Berthing at the Port of Gustavia is prime real-estate and during the regatta season creates a very real waiting list. There are only 60 berths in the small marina, so some yachts and all motherships anchor off in the bay outside the port and guests tender ashore. It is island living and all adds to the ambiance.
St Barth’s Bucket Regatta attracts some of the world’s most iconic sailing superyachts and with them some of the world’s most notable sailing legends. The hot dock buzzes with excitement from dawn til dawn, work hard play hard being the overriding mantra. By day they race around the stunning islands of the Caribbean and by night they party at Nikki Beach, Le Plage, and Le Yacht Club.
Sadly, last year’s edition of the regatta had to be cancelled, but St Barths bucket is back for business this year, with the event scheduled to take place from the 17th to the 20th of March. The island is regatta ready.
“A healthy recovery from the global pandemic and a return to doing what they love is the true endgame for the yacht owners, and for that matter, all of us. Over the years the St Barth’s Bucket has delivered enjoyment for owners, their guests, captains, and crews for that matter through exciting racing and unique shoreside activities. The citizens, local government and businesses are eager to welcome back superyachts and the Bucket Regatta.” Said Peter Craig, Event director and Race Chairman.
Registrations for the return of the Bucket are strong given the world today. Along with the three J-Class entries Hanuman, Ranger and Velsheda, this core year’s fleet has 20 entries including Hetairos who will return to defend her title of winner overall of the 2019 event. Shamanna, Nilaya, Leopard 3 and Kawil all regular participants on the superyacht racing circuit will join Hyperion, Action, Whisper, Wisp, Rosehearty, Perseus3, Elfje, Kamaxitha and Meraki to name a few.
The Corinthian Spirit has four entries Cavallo, Columbia, Symmetry and Valquest which is great for newcomers to the scene and those keen on a more leisurely pace.
And making its debut in the 90-foot category entries include Freya, Drifter Cube, and Sonny in the line-up.
Superyacht racing is fun, friendly, and unspeakably glamorous. It is an exceptional experience. My clients seek, freedom, privacy, and safety in total luxury. Contact me to find out more.
Bio – Alice Widdows
I am a passionate sailor and island-hopping enthusiast, especially around The Balearics. Overleaf you will find my superyacht regatta calendar with my season’s highlights, get inspired!
Alice Widdows Events and Marketing is a full-service event management company committed to creating the next generation of bespoke luxury superyacht events.
We would love to help you experience the best of the superyacht life. Let us help you to organise a superyacht regatta charter in some of the world’s most beautiful, and exclusive destinations.
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Click here for 2022 Event Calendar
