British Virgin Islands / Special Interests / Events

A number of regattas are held throughout the year. Some are pretty serious events, with crews flown in, in some cases to compete for an owner; but others are more “fun” (while still being extremely competitive). They usually also have entry categories for cruising yachts, so you can hire a yacht with a group of friends and enter the races. There are always extremely good parties at the end of each day.

Regattas in the BVIs include:

BVI Spring Regatta & Sailing Festival - The week-long event takes place every March/April, with a series of races and events that are acclaimed to be among the best in the region with plenty of partying as well as racing. It attracts around 150 entrants who race from Nanny Cay along the Sir Frances Drake Channel to the Bitter End Yacht Club

Sweethearts of the Caribbean Race - Organised by the West End Yacht Club each February over Valentines Weekend and hosted by the Jolly Roger Inn (where the club is based), this event is known for being fun. Once the competition is over, it finishes with the post-race party at the Jolly Roger Inn.

Annual Dark & Stormy Regatta - This is a 16-mile race, held in March, from Trellis Bay, Tortola, to Anegada, where participants relax and enjoy the festivities centred around one of the hosts, Neptune’s Treasure, before racing back to Tortola and enjoying more festivities at the Jolly Roger Inn.

Foxy’s Wooden Boat Regatta - A well-known gathering for wooden boats, held every May at Jost Van Dyke, and attracting 30 to 50 entrants, organised by Foxy’s bar and the West End Yacht Club. Traditional craft go for glory, while on land, well-wishers can enjoy non-stop live music and parties.

Virgin’s Cup - This race is open to any sail vessel, but not to any skippers! It is a fun contest held each October that is strictly reserved for ladies who must skipper their vessel from Road Harbour, Tortola, to the William Thornton, or Willy T, floating bar at Norman Island.

Contributors: Sara Macefield (regattas)