Around 60 yachts will be participating in the 26th edition of the Antigua Classic Yacht Regatta between 18th and 23rd of April. The Caribbean event traditionally marks the start of the annual Panerai Classic Yachts Challenge, the international regatta circuit for classic and vintage yachts sponsored by Officine Panerai.

The Antigua Classic Yacht Regatta is completely unique on the international classic sailing calendar in terms of participant numbers, atmosphere, backdrop and racing conditions. Each year in April, its four days of racing celebrate the end of the classic sailing season in the Caribbean by bringing together dozens of classic and vintage ketches, sloops, schooners and yawls which put on a magnificent show along with a fleet of stunning J Classes, Tall Ships and Spirit of Tradition yachts. The latter category, in fact, first debuted in Antigua in 1996, providing ample testament to the pivotal role played by the event on the international classic sailing scene. It is also estimated that in the 25-years-plus since it was first competed, the Antigua regatta has attracted more than 450 different yachts.

Four fleet races are also scheduled between April 19th and 22nd in the stretch of sea between English Harbour and Falmouth Harbour. Owners, crews, guests and international media attending the regatta may avail of the Panerai Lounge on the dockside or the facilities of the Antigua Yacht Club.

In the context of the Panerai Classic Yachts Challenge calendar, the Antigua Classic Yacht Regatta remains very much a stand-alone event independent of both the Mediterranean and North American circuits. The Mediterranean circuit, of course, gets underway with Les Voiles d’Antibes (29th May – 2nd June 2013).