2026 celebrates Antigua Sailing Week’s evolution into a relaxed, point-to-point cruising experience. The new format emphasizes cruise-in-company sailing and optional competitive elements. Mark your calendars now – April 22-26.
- Crews seeking the excitement of a start line and buoy roundings will have access to optional racing courses announced each morning.
- Cruising yachts will be assigned a final start and arrival time for each leg, allowing flexibility and an unhurried pace throughout the week.
- Throughout the week, participants will explore Antigua’s breathtaking coastline, ultimately returning to where the journey begins—historic Nelson’s Dockyard.
- Departing from English Harbour, the itinerary follows a scenic anti-clockwise route, with each leg intentionally designed to be short, navigable, and enjoyable for charter crews, regional cruisers, and liveaboards alike. This approach maximizes time for swimming, relaxation, and curated shoreside experiences.
Here is a closer look at some details that will shape the event.
English Harbour – April 22: The adventure begins as crews gather within the historic surroundings of Nelson’s Dockyard for registration and briefings. Once preparations are complete, participants are invited to celebrate the start of the journey with a festive cultural evening on the lawn, including a complimentary rum hour from 5-6 pm.
Base of the 57th Antigua Sailing Week – Nelson’s Dockyard © Takumi Media
Nonsuch Bay – April 23 : Following an optional guided morning exploration of the National Parks hiking trails, the fleet embarks on an exhilarating opening sail along Antigua’s eastern coastline. The route passes Indian Creek, Mamora Bay, and Willoughby Bay before heading north past Half Moon Bay and Green Island to the entrance of Nonsuch Bay, the anchorage for evening.
Onshore, a welcome cocktail and beach barbecue hosted by Breeze at Nonsuch Bay will feature entertainment and local hospitality. Participants may choose to dine aboard their yachts or pre-book dinner at the Breeze Restaurant.
Destination East – Nonsuch Bay © Breeze Restaurant
Maiden Island Little Jumby – April 24 : The day begins with optional sunrise stretching, followed by morning activities including kitesurfing and reef exploration—both well-suited to Nonsuch Bay’s conditions. Once underway, the fleet enjoys a leisurely open-water reach northward before anchoring off Maiden Island.
Participants will dinghy ashore to The Hut – Little Jumby, a private venue renowned for its barefoot elegance. A 3pm beach party sets the tone for an afternoon of sundowners, music, and relaxed socializing. Dinner options include a casual beachfront barbecue or an elegant seated dining experience with fine wines; reservations are recommended.
Destination North – Maiden Island ©The Hut Little Jumby
Ffryes Bay Beach – April 25 : Departing Little Jumby, yachts continue south along Antigua’s west coast, passing Dickenson Bay, St. John’s Harbour, Five Islands, and Jolly Beach. Widely regarded as one of the most picturesque sails around the island, this leg offers exceptional photo opportunities.
Moorings will be set off Ffryes Bay Beach, one of Antigua’s most celebrated beaches, where an all-day beach festival will showcase local food, music, and entertainment. Along this mile-long stretch of white sand, notable dining options include Tamarind Hills, Dennis Restaurant, and Sheer Rocks.
Destination West – Ffryes Bay Beach will come alive with an all day beach festival ©ABTA
Nelson’s Dockyard – April 26: The final day begins with an optional morning hike before the fleet makes a memorable return sail into Nelson’s Dockyard, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the Caribbean’s most storied maritime locations. The journey concludes with a final awards ceremony and closing celebrations, bringing the week full circle.
Return to Base – Final Awards at Nelson’s Dockyard © ABTA ©ASW
CRUISING or RACING
With 15 entries and building, the 2026 edition reflects a global shift toward lifestyle-driven sailing events that prioritize discovery, connection, and celebration. Charter companies are invited to register their fleets, while regional cruisers and liveaboards are warmly encouraged to join both the sailing and the shoreside experiences that define this new chapter of Antigua Sailing Week.
Early entry fees of US$14 per foot have been extended until January 8, 2026 when they will increase US$16. To enter now, visit yachtscoring.com
To review the Notice of Race, visit www.sailingweek.com
For special requirements or accommodations, contact events@sailingweek.com