One constant in life is change, and this was our year here at ASW to make some big changes. Hopefully, you have already read about the new event Antigua Racing Cup, which will take place from 9-12 April, 2026 followed a week and a half later by the newly formatted Antigua Sailing Week, 22-26 April 2026. But what is the difference you ask? Below the artwork we have put together an easy comparison guide to help you decided which event is right for you OR if you want to do both.
| Antigua Racing Cup (ARC) | Antigua Sailing Week (ASW) | |
| Dates | April 9-12, 2026 | April 22-26, 2026 |
| What to expect on the water | Competitive, course-based racing off the south-east coast of Antigua. Longer courses for racing multihulls and maxi’s with options for dual-scoring CSA/IRC in monohull racing classes. One design racing on RS Elites & Petticrow Dragons. | Cruise or Race, around Antigua with a different stopover each evening. The point-to-point itinerary will take the fleet around a different section of the coastline each day to visit Nonsuch Bay, Little Jumby Bay, and Ffryes Beach before returning to English Harbour. Simple race courses. Spinnakers your choice. CSA Simplified Rating system. |
| Types of Boats | Performance-driven crews & racers – multihull, monohull & one-design. No bareboat or club classes. Race charters available at www.antiguaracingcup.com/charters | Focussed on liveaboards, monohull & multihull, cruising boats. Perfect for bareboats. Charters available at https://sailingweek.com/charteroptions/ |
| Shoreside | Daily prize givings each evening at the regatta village in English Harbour followed by gatherings in iconic locations. The English Harbour dining scene will form an important part of the celebrations along with cultural entertainment throughout the week. | Daily parties at a different location each evening from secluded bays to a huge island beach party celebrating the maritime history, food and culture of Antigua. Opportunities to discover the surrounding areas before and after sailing. |
| Dockage | The marinas of English and/or Falmouth Harbours or at anchor in either bay – Nelsons Dockyard Marina, Antigua Yacht Club Marina, Falmouth Harbour Marina & the Catamaran Club. | The marinas of English or Falmouth Harbours or at anchor in either bay at the beginning and end of the week & anchoring at each race end destination each night around the island. |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I participate in both events? A: Yes. ARC and ASW are scheduled to allow crews to enjoy both competitive racing and relaxed sailing. So long as your boat configuration will work in the classes available your entry will be accepted. Check the Notice of Race for either event for eligible vessels.
Q: Which event is better for newcomers or families? A: Antigua Sailing Week is ideal, thanks to its laid-back routes and cultural experiences.
Q: Do I need to be an experienced sailors to take part? A: Both events are suitable for beginners under specific circumstances – ASW is great due to its relaxed nature and new sailors can opt for the cruising option. A great way to participate as a newcomer in either event is to join a sail training boat who offer training on board throughout the event. Check options at www.sailingweek.com/charters
Q: Which event is better for serious racers? A: Antigua Racing Cup is designed for tactical, course-based racing and intense competition. Antigua Sailing Week will offer much more relaxed courses.
Q: Will both events include onshore activities? A: Yes. ARC features sailor socials and daily prizegivings in English Harbour, while ASW includes beach parties and cultural nights around the island, including a Welcome Party & Final Awards in Nelson’s Dockyard.
Q: How do I register for each event? A: Visit www.antiguaracingcup.com and www.sailingweek.com for details.
OR follow the below links to get directly to the scoring platforms.
ASW: https://www.yachtscoring.com/emenu/50418
Antigua Racing Cup: https://arc.nautical-cloud.com/