Antigua Classic Yacht Regatta: It all started on Aschanti
by Antigua Classic Yacht Regatta 29 Mar 2018 14:14 BST
18-24 April 2018
The idea for a Classic Yacht Regatta was first conceived by schooner Captains Kenny Coombs, Uli Pruesse and Tony Fincham in 1986 when they met for their usual evening rum on board the mighty 114' Aschanti of Saba.
At that time, classic yachts were part of Antigua Sailing Week but the trio thought that a separate event, to take place before Sailing Week and to include all traditional craft as well as their beloved schooners, was a good idea – and so it was! Hosted by the Antigua Yacht Club, the Antigua Classic Yacht Regatta is now in its 31st glorious year and Aschanti will be joining us back here again in April to continue the tradition she was instrumental in starting... along with a host of equally stunning vessels!
New Partnerships
Classic Yacht Owners Association
We are delighted to announce that we are now in partnership with the Classic Yacht Owners' Association (CYOA). The membership-driven, nonprofit association was established in 2015 to encourage fellowship amongst owners within the classic yacht racing community. The organisation's goal is to help shape the future of the sport by influencing and cultivating long-term regional cooperation amongst those who are dedicated to owning, maintaining, and racing sailing vessels. It also works to promote and educate classic yacht owners in the United States with the objective of attracting new members and creating new funding opportunities to support future classic yacht events. They will be presenting the prize to the overall winner of the Regatta and will be featuring the Antigua Classic Yacht Regatta on their Website and in their Newsletter. Most appropriately, they will, in addition, be co-hosting, together with the Admiral's Inn, the exclusive Owners' Cocktail Party during the event. Their new Director is Bill Lynn, who is also representing the Herreshoff Marine Museum that is sponsoring the Concours d'Elégance this year.
Soufrière Spring Water
This new company bottles its spring water at source in the volcanic Center Hills in beautiful Montserrat. It has generously offered to supply chilled drinking water (and cups) at the Antigua Yacht Club Events Centre and other strategic points, including the first Gazebo on the Dock. It will also be donating water to the Owners' Cocktail Party.
Local Supporters
Le Cap Horn
With a generous donation to our event, the restaurant Le Cap Horn, in Falmouth, recently became a Friend of the Regatta. Serving delicious pizzas and French, Italian, vegetarian and vegan cuisine, it has long been a favourite with all our participants.
South Point
South Point Restaurant, just a few steps away from the Antigua Yacht Club and specialising in Asian, Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisine, is kindly hosting a lunch for the illustrious judges of the Concours d'Elégance after they have completed their very challenging task.
Catamaran Club
Located just across Falmouth Harbour from the Antigua Yacht Club, the very popular and friendly Cat Club, founded by yachtsman Sir Hugh Bailey for yachtsmen, is offering a 30% discount for all Classic Yacht Regatta participants. Email .