Caribbean Brief

Caribbean Luxury Yacht Charter & Superyacht News

Major Growth planned for yachting sector in St Lucia, West Indies

September 29, 2011

The St. Lucia Tourist Ministry of Tourism and Civil Aviation have announced that all new revised policies have been approved by its government to help stimulate growth and development in St. Lucia’s yachting sector. Several proposals presented by Yachting Director Cuthbert Didier have been sanctioned and will facilitate clearing in and out of the country, as well as an ease on taxation and many other added benefits to encourage cruising in its waters.

Major Growth planned for yachting sector in St Lucia, West Indies

Major Growth planned for yachting sector in St Lucia, West Indies

These changes will greatly improve and support yachting for private and charter yachts wishing to cruise St. Lucian waters as well as those wishing to conduct yachting business in the country. Some of the changes include the following:

Yachtsmen will now be permitted to stay in St. Lucia waters for 6 months

Yachts with owners temporarily on island will be allowed to remain in the state free of duties and taxes for up to 3 years, after which they will become payable on current value

100% waiver of import duty and tax on yachts imported into Saint Lucia

100% waiver on income tax from operations for the first 5 years for local charter companies with a minimum of 1 captain and 3 crew members, and has a fleet of 3 or more power or sailing vessels

Approval has been given for the formation of a Yachting Committee, that falls under the purview of the Ministry of Tourism and Civil Aviation and will incorporate all relevant institutions that function to regulate the yachting sector in St. Lucia

100% waiver of import duty and consumption tax on boat safety equipment and watercraft activity equipment, which includes sport fishing, SCUBA diving, kite surfing and other water sports, subject to verification of the Bill of Quantities by the Ministry of Tourism and Civil Aviation for 5 years from date of cabinet conclusion

100% waiver of import duty and consumption tax on all equipment and materials imported or purchased locally for use  in the establishment of infrastructure to service yachts over period of 5 years, subject to verification and approval of the Bill of Quantities by the Ministry of Tourism and Civil Aviation

The Government of Saint Lucia has waived the visa requirements for Russian and Australian nationals so that Russian and Australian nationals no longer require visas to enter Saint Lucia

These great efforts by the Ministry of Tourism and Civil Aviation and the Government of St. Lucia to foster yachting in the state will likely trickle down to other businesses in the country, leading to even further economic growth within the country. “This crucial change benefits everyone in the yachting industry, from owners to crew, charter guests and yacht businesses as well as residents of the island itself. We have been working on implementing these changes for some time, and anticipate great results for all involved,” says Didier.

As part of ongoing support to the development and growth of yachting in St. Lucia, IGY Marinas works closely with the Ministry of Tourism and Civil Aviation, St. Lucia Tourist Board and the Saint Lucia Government and applauds them on this far-reaching effort that will greatly impact the industry and serve as a model for other countries to emulate.

Celebrity Cruises and Meyer Werft celebrate keel laying of Celebrity Reflection Cruise Ship

September 15, 2011

Celebrity Cruises celebrated the keel-laying of the fifth in its stylish, five-ship Solstice Class series, Celebrity Reflection, at shipbuilder Meyer Werft in Papenburg, Germany. The 500-ton block measuring 66-ft by 118-ft was lifted into the building dock with an 800-ton crane, and commemoratively placed on a collection of coins, consistent with tradition. Doing the honors of placing the obligatory coins under the first block in the grand hall of building dock II was Mr. Jarmo Laakso, the cruise line’s Project Director.

Celebrity Cruises and Meyer Werft celebrate keel laying of Celebrity Reflection Cruise Ship

Celebrity Cruises and Meyer Werft celebrate keel laying of Celebrity Reflection Cruise Ship

Celebrity Reflection is the 10th ship to be built for Celebrity Cruises by Meyer Werft. The two organizations’ collaboration began in 1988, with the building of the former Celebrity Horizon. And in a unique twist, Celebrity Reflection shares the same trio of numbers as designated by Meyer Werft to the first Celebrity ship built at the yard: The former Celebrity Horizon’s shipyard number was S-619; Celebrity Reflection’s is S-691.

Celebrity Reflection’s energy balance is on par with the other ships of the series: All electric consumers operate with high energy efficiency, while special underwater paints with greatly improved resistance reduce the required propulsion power. Heat exchangers make use of the generated warmth, and the extensive heat- and cold recovery system implemented on the predecessors can be found on this ship as well. For the lighting, highly efficient illuminants and a large number of LED lights will be used.

Manfred Knoop Head of Group (Meyer Werft), Jarmo Laakso Project Director (Celebrity Cruises), Uwe Wulf Project Manager (Meyer Werft), Lambert Kruse Managing Director (Meyer Werft).

Manfred Knoop Head of Group (Meyer Werft), Jarmo Laakso Project Director (Celebrity Cruises), Uwe Wulf Project Manager (Meyer Werft), Lambert Kruse Managing Director (Meyer Werft).

The predecessors Celebrity Solstice, Celebrity Equinox, Celebrity Eclipse and the recently delivered Celebrity Silhouette are successfully established in the market and are still pioneers in the energy efficiency sector.

Feature: Luxury sailing yacht SCHEHERAZADE in Nova Scotia

September 12, 2011

The Luxury sailing yacht SCHEHERAZADE is a 47m (154ft) ketch built by Hodgdon Yachts in 2000. She was designed by Bruce King Yacht Design, Inc. with interior design by Andrew Winch Designs of London, England.

Superyacht SCHEHERAZADE is a fast ketch embodying the skill and integrity of the ancient boat builder’s art. This luxury sailing yacht is classic in proportion and line, totally modern in systems and controls, she is fantastic sailing yacht with a beautiful and comfortable interior.

SCHEHERAZADE - Sailing5

SCHEHERAZADE - Sailing5

SCHEHERAZADE - Sailing4
SCHEHERAZADE - Sailing4
SCHEHERAZADE - Sailing3
SCHEHERAZADE - Sailing3
SCHEHERAZADE - Sailing2
SCHEHERAZADE - Sailing2

The interior of charter yacht SCHEHERAZADE designed by Andrew Winch was crafted from fiddle back sycamore and walnut woods. SCHEHERAZADE furniture features harlequin book matched panels and more than 350 relief carved seashells in walnut with burled walnut furniture tops. The numerous overhead ports and hatches combined with the lovely Andrew Winch interior create an atrium-like atmosphere in the main saloon.

The SCHEHERAZADE yacht is able to accommodate up to 6 charter guests in 3 cabins including a master suite that takes up the entire after portion of the yacht’s aft deck – it is a beautiful multi-cabin apartment. The master suite has a king-size bed, a built-in sofa, his and hers bathroom and a staircase leading directly onto the aft private deck sitting area. Two en-suite cabins are used as offices or libraries.

Moving forward from the yacht’s rotunda from the main saloon there are two identical twin staterooms with ample beds and en-suite bathrooms.

Specially formed rock-solid glass around the upper saloon offer beautiful 180-degree views. The generous deck layout provides plenty of room for crew and guests to move around with ease. Two large tables in the main cockpit are ideal for al fresco sheltered dining. A second cockpit further aft creates a private gathering spot just a few steps up from the master suite.

Luxury sailing yacht SCHEHERAZADE in Halifax, Nova Scotia – Photo Credit Brian William Hagell

The yacht’s composite hull construction method used western red cedar wood, Douglas fir, divinycell, balsa core and carbon. All of these materials were epoxied and vacuum bagged to create a strong, stiff and monolithic structure.

Luxury sailing yacht SCHEHERAZADE was not available for charter during the summer of 2011 however she will be available for charter in the Caribbean this winter season, based out of Antigua.

Below are photos of the sailing yacht Scheherazade taken in Halifax, Nova Scotia on August 29, 2011 by a Charterworld reader Brian William Hagell.

Superyacht SCHEHERAZADE in Halifax, Nova Scotia – Photo Credit Brian William Hagell

Superyacht SCHEHERAZADE in Halifax, Nova Scotia – Photo Credit Brian William Hagell

Luxury sailing yacht SCHEHERAZADE in Halifax, Nova Scotia – Photo Credit Brian William Hagell

Luxury sailing yacht SCHEHERAZADE in Halifax, Nova Scotia – Photo Credit Brian William Hagell

Sailing yacht SCHEHERAZADE in Halifax, Nova Scotia – Photo Credit Brian William Hagell

Sailing yacht SCHEHERAZADE in Halifax, Nova Scotia – Photo Credit Brian William Hagell

The harbour front was busy with tourists and locals enjoying the beautiful sunny day. There was a small, yet noticeable swell in the harbour, a leftover from Hurricane Irene. Nova Scotia was fortunate to miss much of the wind and rain that the Northeastern USA received.

The waterfront had the usual “buskers” entertaining along the walkway, Nova Scotian fiddlers and other musicians. Young families, strollers and joggers hurrying by, business men and women and tourists from near and far.

Halifax, Nova Scotia – Photo Credit Brian William Hagell

Halifax, Nova Scotia – Photo Credit Brian William Hagell

The masts of the charter yacht SCHEHERAZADE were clearly a standout on the waterfront. There was a steady stream of admirers enjoying the beauty of the S/Y Scheherazade. It is a pastime of Halifax harbour watchers to imagine who might be sailing on such a sleek boat. Perhaps a famous movie star. In Halifax, it has been known to happen!

Charter sailing yacht SCHEHERAZADE in Halifax, Nova Scotia – Photo Credit Brian William Hagell

Charter sailing yacht SCHEHERAZADE in Halifax, Nova Scotia – Photo Credit Brian William Hagell

She was spotless and well-polished, thanks to her hard working crew.

The Halifax boardwalk has been expanding and improved over the past years and now travels from Pier 21, the national immigration museum (Canada’s equivalent of Ellis Island in New York City) to Purdy’s Wharf, a twin tower office complex near the naval dockyards.

For those less adventurous but would like a little sailing experience Halifax offers several harbour tours such as the “the Mar II”, “the Silva”, the two Halifax ferryboats and on occasions, the Bluenose II. Naturally, there is even a “Harbour Hopper” seen coming in to look at Scheherazade.

Halifax, a safe and exciting port for any vessel and any sailor!

Luxury sailing yacht SCHEHERAZADE

Bruce King Yacht Design, Bruce King, Andrew Winch
Year:2000 (Refit 2011)  L.O.A.:47.15m (154' 8")   Beam:8.69m (28' 6")  
Max Speed:15 knots  Cruise Speed:12 knots  Engines:960 hp DDC/MTU diesel  
Cabins:3  Charter Guest:6  Crew:6 
More: Luxury sailing yacht SCHEHERAZADE

There are more details about Luxury sailing yacht SCHEHERAZADE here.

Discovery Yachts to showcase blue-water cruising yachts at PSP Southampton Boat Show

September 06, 2011

Discovery Yachts will be showcasing the ultimate in blue-water cruising yachts at this year’s PSP Southampton Boat Show where they will be exhibiting the highly acclaimed Discovery 55 sailing yacht and the award-winning Discovery 50 Catamaran. Discovery Yachts will also be unveiling the designs for a stunning new blue-water cruiser, the Discovery 57 sailing yacht which will be launched in 2012.

Discovery Yachts to showcase blue-water cruiser, the Discovery 57 sailing yacht at PSP Southampton Boat Show

Discovery Yachts to showcase blue-water cruiser, the Discovery 57 sailing yacht at PSP Southampton Boat Show

Discovery Yachts is enjoying a very successful and busy year which began with them winning 4 International awards at the Miami Boat Show in February. During the year the company has opened a new multi-purpose yacht manufacturing hall as well as refurbishing a number of existing halls. Recently the company has made significant investments in high-end veneer machinery and a precision 5 axis CNC machine.

Discovery Yachts employs over 100 staff including in-house naval architects, designers and expert craftsmen.

Members of the media are invited to view the Discovery 55 and Discovery 50 Catamaran on berths M246/M248 and to learn about the new Discovery 57 being launched at the show. Test sail opportunities for the 55, 67 and Cat 50 will be available after the show.

World renowned designers Ken Freivokh and Rob Doyle representing Ron Holland will be available on Friday 16th September 2011 to answer questions about the designs and award-winning features of Discovery’s range of blue-water yachts.

Nautor’s Swan Announces ClubSwan Caribbean Rendezvous Dates for March 2012

September 02, 2011

Nautors Swan is looking ahead to their Cruising Rendezvous Programme next year with the official release of dates for the 2012 ClubSwan Caribbean Rendezvous. This will be the 9th annual Caribbean based Rendezvous for the internationally renowned luxury sailing yacht manufacturer. Dates for 2012 are from the 12th through to the 17th March with the Rendezvous kicking off from the Bitter End Yacht Club in the British Virgin Islands.

9th ClubSwan Caribbean Rendezvous, British Virgin Islands, 12 to 17 March 2011

9th ClubSwan Caribbean Rendezvous, British Virgin Islands, 12 to 17 March 2011

Six days of uninterrupted enjoyment based cruising is top priority within an agenda that is expected to attract Swan owners the world over. The Rendezvous style is the perfect opportunity to invite friends and family to get into the Swan Spirit and to experience the sheer joy of cruising in one of the most sought after yachting regions of the globe.

With four islands set to visit there will be plenty of sailing time for the committed yachter as well as ample down time to partake in wider water based activities. It is the ideal chance to try diving and snorkelling in pristine turquoise waters that are not only clear but warm to the touch.

Friendly competition is also an option within the Rendezvous family taking the form of low key dinghy racing and games of boules. Those preferring to rest privately and relax in the sunshine are also fully catered to within the programme.

Evening entertainment for guests aiming to absorb moonlit nights is not forgotten. Live music, casual dining and drinks parties are all set in stunning beach locations.

March is one of the driest months on the British Virgin Islands making it the perfect time of year for a Rendezvous. The trade winds offer a steady breeze which will take the Swan fleet calmly from island to island throughout the structured cruise and participants can relax safe in the knowledge that they are safe in the hands of the experienced Nautor’s Swan management.

Further details to be released shortly regarding the 2012 ClubSwan Caribbean Rendezvous.

See here for more info and images on Nautors Swan sailing yachts available for charter.

KH Charts Superyacht opens Antibes Base to Support Growth

August 09, 2011

KH Charts Superyacht has launched a new office in Antibes, France, in partnership with Yacht Shopping. KH Charts Superyacht delivers ISM compliant navigational solutions and service packages to over 400 super yachts across the globe. This offering, combined with Yacht Shopping’s specialism in maintenance and spares, will allow KH Charts Superyacht to deliver a full-service suite to its expanding client base.

Mr Terry Smallwood director of KH Charts Superyacht, said the new base in Antibes will also support the business in meeting the demands of its client footprint in the Mediterranean and the Caribbean regions.

He added: ‘This presence in a key geographic area for the super yacht market increases the Superyacht contact with our customers and ensures the high service levels, quality and confidence in the Superyacht brand which continues to grow.’

Headed by business development manager, Kirsty Stratton, the new office located at 6 Rue Honoré, Ferrare, Antibes will stock the comprehensive KH Charts product range and navigation charts correction service for the Mediterranean and Caribbean.

‘Supporting a growing fleet and delivering the highest level of service is a key priority of the business,’ Ms Kirsty Stratton said.

‘We work with over 400 super yachts around the world to ensure that each has the equipment and resources for its own particular location and itinerary, and that each receives updates to charts, notices and other resources in the way that suits best.’

‘It is imperative we continue to provide a first class service and maintain our position in the market place, and I believe our new Antibes base and partnership with Yacht Shopping will enable us to do this.’

BVI Spring Regatta and Sailing Festival 2012

August 04, 2011

Like a snow ball rolling downhill, the momentum is already building as plans take shape for the 2012 BVI Spring Regatta and Sailing Festival, March 26 – April 1 2012.

The promotional kick off takes place this week at the longest running and perhaps the biggest yachting event in the world, Cowes Week.   Joining forces with Sunsail, Nanny Cay and Gill, BVI Spring Regatta will launch its annual campaign to make sure that the thousands of  sailors and visitors to Cowes mark their calendars that in eight short months, the action will be on the other side of the pond.

BVI Spring Regatta and Sailing Festival 2012

BVI Spring Regatta and Sailing Festival 2012

With the successes of last year’s 40th Anniversary, three new videos are on line.  The first highlights the inaugural Gill BVI International Match Racing Championship;  the second features Sir Richard Branson sharing his enthusiasm for the BVI and this event and the third is the 2012 promotional video featuring ten reasons why the BVI Spring Regatta is a ‘must do’ event.

According to event director, Judy Petz, “Somehow each year we squeeze in just a little more. This year we will expand the International Yacht Club Challenge raced with Sunsail’s fleet and include intercollegiate sailing teams among the yacht club teams from around the world”

Bob Phillips, Chairman, is pleased to continue the addition of Level three match racing, “Sponsored by Gill, match racing provides the purest type of racing with one-on-one competition in equal boats. It’s a different type of racing and we’re excited to offer this fast-paced competition right off the beach at Nanny Cay”   Those that were lucky enough to watch last year, not only were entertained but also had the opportunity to pick up a few tips as Denise Holmberg, Peter Holmberg’s wife, provided enlightened commentary.

Seven days of racing, five separate events, and loads of fun in the Caribbean.  Sounds like a regatta and party you wouldn’t want to miss.

Warm Water – Hot Racing. Guaranteed.

Held annually on the first weekend of April, the BVI Spring Regatta & Sailing Festival will be celebrating its 41th anniversary. The BVI Spring Regatta and the Sailing Festival is now one of the top three Caribbean sailing events, with an average of 125 yachts per year with eighty percent of the competitors from overseas. The week encompasses seven-days and features five separate events, The Sailing Festival comprised of The Bitter End Cup, the Nations Challenge and The Nanny Cay Cup; the Gill BVI International Match Racing Championship and the BVI Spring Regatta.

The BVI Spring Regatta and Sailing Festival is presented by Nanny Cay Resort and Marina with top sponsors the BVI Tourist Board, Bitter End Yacht Club, LIME, First Caribbean International Bank, Heineken, The Moorings, Mount Gay, SOL, Sea Hawk Nautical Coatings and Gill.  Contributing sponsors are Clearwater, Sunsail, Tortola Yacht Services and Meridian Construction.

Visitors can fly to the Bristish Virgin Islands through San Juan, Puerto Rico with American Airlines, Cape Air and LIAT. Flights are also available through Antigua, St. Maartin and Barbados and there is ferry service from St. Thomas and St. John.

Luxury Catamaran Necker Belle offers Whale Watching Charters

August 03, 2011

The luxury catamaran Necker Belle, which at 32m (105ft) in length is one of the world’s few very large luxury sailing catamarans available for charter, is offering the opportunity to swim with the whales. S/Y Necker Belle will be available for whale watching yacht charters in the Silver Bank, which is within a day’s cruising range of the Dominican Republic and the Turks and Caicos Islands.  The Necker Belle yacht will be in the Silver Bank during February and March 2012, which is when up to 7,000 humpback whales are expected to visit the area for an elaborate courtship ritual on their annual migration south.

Luxury Catamaran Necker Belle offers Whale Watching Charters in the Silver Bank, Caribbean.

Luxury Catamaran Necker Belle offers Whale Watching Charters in the Silver Bank, Caribbean.

The opportunity to incorporate whale watching into a yacht charter itinerary, while relaxing in pure luxury is not an opportunity that arises often. When you charter the Necker Belle catamaran for 7 nights you’ll get the chance to observe the whales in close proximity as they spend a great deal of time on the surface. The Silver Bank is located north of the Dominican Republic and southeast of the Turks and Caicos Islands in the Caribbean.

Luxury Catamaran Necker Belle offers Humpback Whale Watching Charters - Photo courtesy of Tom Conlin of Aquatic Adventures

Luxury Catamaran Necker Belle offers Humpback Whale Watching Charters - Photo courtesy of Tom Conlin of Aquatic Adventures

When catamaran Necker Belle is sailing in the Silver Bank in February and March 2012 all yacht  charters will be accompanied by Tom Conlin of Aquatic Adventures who has a wealth of experience working with these magnificent mammals. Tom will serve as a guide to Necker Belle charter guests both on the yacht and in the water. Guests are able to get into the water and experience a “passive encounter,” with the humpback whales where you float in snorkeling gear and let the whales come to you at their own pace.

The superyacht Necker Belle is available for weekly charters which would include around 2 and half days with the whales at the rate of USD 130,000 per week plus expenses. Contact us here for further information.

Tom Conlin of Aquatic Adventures explains his passion for the humpback whales and what people can expect to see when they’re on and in the water.

Humpback whale underwater

“Since 1990, I’ve relentlessly read everything I could get my hands on concerning humpback whales, but my real knowledge stems from spending 216 weeks in the field, watching, listening, and trying to discern the movements, behaviours and attitudes of the North Atlantic Humpback Whale. Recording whale behaviours and my thoughts as they occur has helped me theorize and understand movement, breaching, lob tailing, communications, resting, rowdy groups, courtship and mother/calf interaction. Not to mention behaviour changes due to time of season, wind and sea conditions, positions of the moon and the variable weather patterns we experience throughout this time period.
To observe these majestic mammals in their natural habitat during their mating and calving season is without a doubt one of the most overpowering experiences you will ever have. During the winter months an uncontrollable desire to migrate South overcomes the North Atlantic Humpback Whale. Why they migrate and their exact migration route is unknown, but we do know they travel to numerous mating and calving areas in the Antilles.

A humpback whale performing a “spinning breach”

We may never know why these mammoth mammals migrate south on a yearly basis, but one thing is for certain, females go into estrus during this time frame and the males testosterone is overflowing, creating one of nature’s most exciting arenas of courtship. The waters of the Antilles are harmoniously alive with the songs of the humpback whale during the mating and calving season. You will be actively involved as we digitally record the songs and communication that you hear during this time frame. Our hydrophone will introduce you to vocalizing males in search for an agreeable female as your chest vibrates and ears tingle from the strength of their song.

One of the highlights of your adventure will be when you have the opportunity to slip into the water to experience a soft-in-water encounter with these magnificent mammals.

Luxury Catamaran Necker Belle offers 'swimming with the whales' Charters - Photo courtesy of Tom Conlin of Aquatic Adventures

Luxury Catamaran Necker Belle offers 'swimming with the whales' Charters - Photo courtesy of Tom Conlin of Aquatic Adventures


A soft water encounter with the whales of the Silver Bank

Trying to express in words the feelings you will experience as a mother with a calf slipstreaming along her back, gliding by you, is an impossible task with no words doing justice to this sensation. Visualize a female with escort, acrobatically spiraling around you for hours, as she toys with your presence, playfully returning to your position while totally in control of her body movements. The sheer thought of a thirty to fifty foot mammal coming to you, on their terms, in their domain, allowing you to share their world, is dreamlike in nature, but dreams do come true everyday on a “Whales of the Silver Bank Expedition”.

As you can see your days on the Silver Bank are filled with excitement and opportunity. Keep in mind, there are good times and there are slow times, but there are rarely bad times!”

Below is a video of the humpback whales which you can see on your Necker Belle whale watching charter courtesy of Tom Conlin of Aquatic Adventures.

Azimut Grande 105 motor yacht delivered to the Dominican Republic

July 25, 2011

On July 1 2011, the first Azimut Grande bound for the Dominican Republic and the Caribbean was delivered to its owner. Part of the Azimut Grande collection, the Azimut Grande 105’ motor  yacht is a planing boat which – together with the jewels of Benetti – makes up the mega yacht division of Azimut-Benetti.

Azimut Grande 105 motor yacht delivered to the Dominican Republic

Azimut Grande 105 motor yacht delivered to the Dominican Republic

Launched from Miami, Florida, the yacht sailed over 1,000 nautical miles to reach its Caribbean destination of La Romana in the the Dominican Republic. During the challenging crossing, both the Azimut Yachts shipowner as well as the boat captain were impressed and enthusiastic about the yacht’s technical and navigational qualities.

The owner and a select circle of guests were waiting at the destination to celebrate the official delivery, boat christening and launch ceremony. The party continued on board, giving the guests the opportunity to enjoy the spaces, layout and exquisite cherry finish decor which do full justice to the style that Caribbean yachting is known for.

Azimut Grande 105 motor yacht delivered by Azimut Yachts

Azimut Grande 105 motor yacht delivered by Azimut Yachts

The Azimut Grande 105’ will remain in La Romana for just a few days before setting sail again for an inaugural cruise to the beautiful Carribean destination of the Virgin Islands.

The 2012 Mount Gay Rum Round Barbados Race open for entries

July 21, 2011

The 2012 Mount Gay Rum Round Barbados Race organized by the Barbados Cruising Club in association with Mount Gay Rum and The Barbados Tourism Authority is now open for entries!

Following the success of the 75th anniversary race, held annually on Errol Barrow Day the 21st January a national holiday honouring Barbados’ first Prime Minister, where the race captured the interest of the island the organizers are bringing this unique yachting spectacle right into the heart of Bridgetown Barbados. 

Current view of the inner basin looking towards the Houses of Parliament, Bridgetown, Barbados. Credit to Nigel Durrant

Current view of the inner basin looking towards the Houses of Parliament, Bridgetown, Barbados. Credit to Nigel Durrant

Independence Square in downtown Bridgetown will be the site of the 2012 Regatta Village, with yachts moored within the historic inner basin of the Bridgetown Careenage.  An area ingrained in the maritime history of Barbados, used historically by trading schooners to load and unload their wares and located opposite National Heroes Square and the Barbados Houses of Parliament, which was recently listed by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site.

A historical view of the Careenage, Bridgetown.

A historical view of the Careenage, Bridgetown.

The Mount Gay Rum Round Barbados Race 2012 program begins on 19th January and will feature an extended race and social program with the signature Mount Gay Rum Round Barbados Race starting on the morning of the 21st.  With opportunities for yachts to win their skipper’s weight in Mount Gay Rum Extra Old by breaking existing class records is it time to fatten up your skipper in preparation?

Sailing yacht Destination Fox Harb'r, a Dubois Custom 43 metre yacht holds the Mount Gay Rum Round Barbados Race Monohull Open Unlimited Record of 5 hours, 20 minutes, 30 seconds

Sailing yacht Destination Fox Harb'r, a Dubois Custom 43 metre yacht holds the Mount Gay Rum Round Barbados Race Monohull Open Unlimited Record of 5 hours, 20 minutes, 30 seconds

Existig records of the Mount Gay Rum Round Barbados Race

Monohull Open: Unlimited; 5 hours, 20 minutes, 30 seconds
Record Holder: Sailing yacht Destination Fox Harb’r, Dubois Custom 43 metre
Mr Ron Joyce, Canada.
Recorded 2005.

Multihull Under 40’; 4 hours, 40 minutes, 33 seconds
Record Holder: “Silver Bullet”, Supercat 30’
Mr. Robert Povey, Barbados.
Recorded 2005.

Sailing yacht Elena, the magnificent 55 metre A Class Racing Schooner August 2009 – Photo Credit Mount Gay Rum Round Barbados Race

Sailing yacht Elena, the magnificent 55 metre A Class Racing Schooner August 2009 – Photo Credit Mount Gay Rum Round Barbados Race

Classic Yachts Class records

Schooner; 6 hours, 11 minutes, 19 seconds
Record Holder: Sailing yacht  Elena, A Class Schooner 55 metre
Mr Mark Dixon, UK.
Recorded 2011.

Monohull Class Records

80′ and under; 6 hours, 8 minutes, 41 seconds
Record Holder: “Spirit of Juno”, Farr 65
Ondeck Sailing, UK.
Recorded 2011.

60′ and under; 6 hours, 39 minutes, 16 seconds
Record Holder: “Katanga”, Farr 40
Mr Robin Paterson, UK.
Recorded 2011.

35′ and under; 7 hours, 40 minutes, 38 seconds
Record Holder: “Bruggadung”, Beneteau First Class 10
Mr Paul Johnson, Barbados.
Recorded 2011.

Double Handed: Open; 10 hours, 22 minutes, 55 seconds
Record Holder: “Immigrant”, Dubois Custom
Mr David Staples, USA.
Recorded 2011.

Single Handed: Open; 10 hours, 30 minutes,
Record Holder: “Regent One”, Beneteau 42
Mr Andrew Burke, Barbados.
Recorded 2008.

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