Weekly Sailing & Yachting News
By Publisher Ray Carmen
Caribbean World Magazine
January 2 Edition
As the New Year unfurls across the Caribbean Sea, the region’s marinas, regatta courses, and superyacht anchorages are alive with motion, money, and maritime magic. From record-breaking yacht arrivals to a packed winter regatta calendar, the Caribbean once again proves why it remains the world’s most desirable sailing playground.
Superyacht Season Arrives in Force The Caribbean’s peak superyacht season has officially begun, with St Barts, Antigua, St Maarten, and the British Virgin Islands reporting near-capacity berthing over the New Year period. Brokers confirm a surge in 100m-plus yachts, many arriving fresh from Mediterranean refits and Middle East charters.
St Barts’ Gustavia Harbour has once again become a floating showroom of global wealth, with sleek Feadships, Lürssens, and Benettis dominating the horizon. Charter demand for January and February is described as “exceptional”, with high-net-worth clients locking in weeks well ahead of the traditional booking window.
Antigua Sailing Week Gears Up for a Big Year
Organisers of Antigua Sailing Week 2026 have confirmed strong early entries, particularly in the performance cruiser and classic yacht divisions. With the island celebrating its continued rise as the Caribbean’s unofficial sailing capital, expectations are high for one of the most competitive regattas in recent years.
Local yards and sailmakers are reporting increased activity, signalling confidence not only in racing fleets but also in the broader marine services economy that supports the event.
Luxury Catamarans Dominate Charter Demand
Across the Eastern Caribbean, charter companies report that luxury sailing catamarans are now outperforming monohulls in bookings, particularly among multigenerational families and first-time charterers.
Spacious decks, shallow drafts, and five-star onboard amenities have made high-end cats the vessel of choice in destinations such as Grenada, St Lucia, and the Grenadines. Crewed charters featuring private chefs, wellness experiences, and bespoke island-hopping itineraries are proving especially popular.
Sustainability at Sea Takes Centre Stage
Environmental responsibility continues to reshape the yachting world. Several Caribbean-based fleets are introducing hybrid propulsion systems, advanced waste treatment, and reef-safe operational policies for 2026.
Marinas in Barbados and the Bahamas have announced further investment in shore power and eco-friendly fuel infrastructure, aligning the region with global sustainability standards while protecting the very waters that define its appeal.
Classic Yachts Make a Graceful Return
There is renewed interest in classic and heritage sailing yachts, with restored wooden vessels drawing admiration wherever they anchor. Owners cite a desire for authenticity and craftsmanship in an era increasingly dominated by technology.
Classic yacht rendezvous planned for Antigua and St Lucia later this season are expected to attract an international following of purists, photographers, and maritime historians.
What’s Ahead
Looking forward, January promises a thrilling calendar, including:
Regional warm-up regattas ahead of major spring races
Heightened charter activity around Martinique and Guadeloupe
Continued expansion of the Caribbean’s role as a winter refit and repositioning hub
