Antigua Sailing Week

Antigua Sailing Week is the centrepiece of the Caribbean racing calendar and one of the oldest, most respected regattas in the world. First sailed in 1968, it brings crews from dozens of countries to the south coast, with racing based out of the natural amphitheatre of English Harbour and neighbouring Falmouth Harbour.

The 2026 edition, the 57th, runs as a four-day destination format from 22 to 26 April, tracing the island's coastline in a series of point-to-point legs rather than fixed windward-leeward courses. Classes range from grand-prix maxis and performance cruisers to bareboats, so the fleet mixes professional campaigns with charter crews on their first regatta.

Even if you never set foot on a boat, Sailing Week is a spectacle from land. Reaching legs pass close to shore along the southern beaches, and the famous Lay Day party, dockside prize-givings, and live bands keep the historic harbour buzzing well past dark. The week traditionally follows straight on from the Antigua Classic Yacht Regatta, so visitors can string two world-class events back to back.

For the best free vantage points, head up to Shirley Heights for the panoramic overlook of both harbours, or watch the starts from the headlands near Nelson's Dockyard. Accommodation in the English Harbour area books out months ahead, so plan early.