The St. Maarten Heineken Regatta will celebrate its 37th edition from March 2 – 5, 2017. This world renowned sailing event offers four days of World Class Racing, with trade winds coming from the North East, an average temperature of 25°C and crystal clear waters. This truly international event had a staggering 37 different countries represented during the 2016 Regatta. Courses will take participants along coastal races, as well as around the island, presenting the beautiful beaches, rock formations and other scenery. On shore participants and visitors will be able to enjoy the culture, cuisine and music from both the Dutch and French side.
Everyone can participate in the St. Maarten Heineken Regatta and the level of racing has reached great heights and has met the levels of international racing standards in both monohull, as well as multihull racing. The competitive cruising class is also well represented, with participants who enjoy a more leisurely race. Furthermore, approximately 70 participating boats are chartered by individuals or companies and sail in our bareboat division. This year Rik Wesslund’s El Ocaso took home the overall prize after winning from a competitive fleet.
With a title sponsor like Heineken, which has been a part of the Regatta since the inception, the onshore events are always something to look forward to. With party locations all over the island this is a great opportunity to see the fantastic nightlife the island has to offer.
The St. Maarten Heineken Regatta has a great track record in providing great artists and an atmosphere to die for every night of the regatta. With artists such as Wyclef Jean, Shaggy, Kool and the Gang, The Commodores and Red Foo and the Party Rock Crew revelers can party away with a cold Heineken in hand and sand between their toes.
With over 35 years of experience the St. Maarten Heineken Regatta has established a standard that cannot be beat, but which can only get better. Organizers are working year round to ensure that the next 35 years will continue to bring St. Maarten, her beaches, culture, food and fun to the entire world through the sport of sailing. Sailor or non-sailor, the St. Maarten Heineken Regatta is an event that you have to cross off your bucket list!
Of course, this Regatta wouldn’t exist without the support of many sponsors! Please take a look at our sponsors.
Interesting facts:
- The Regatta is run by the St. Maarten Yacht Club Regatta Foundation
- The Event was founded in 1980 and began with 12 entries
- The Event attracts around 2500 sailors and approximately 1000 supporting people to the island
- Heineken became a major sponsor in 1983 and has remained as title sponsor since then.
- In 2008 the largest entry field was recorded at 289 boats.
- Over 70 boats are charter boats that race in the Bareboat fleet and around half of those come from Holland.