BVI Spring Regatta Returns March 23–29
The BVI Spring Regatta & Sailing Festival will run March 23–29, 2026, bringing world-class racing, cultural events and community programmes to the Territory. The week-long festival combines competitive racing, a village of nightly events at Nanny Cay and sustainability and youth initiatives that benefit local businesses and residents.
The BVI Spring Regatta & Sailing Festival returns to British Virgin Islands waters from March 23–29, 2026, turning the Sir Francis Drake Channel and adjacent seas into one of the Caribbean’s premier sailing arenas. Organisers say the event—now in its 52nd year—draws international sailors and offers a mix of high-performance racing and community-focused activities.
Early-week races will include the Scrub Island International and the Nanny Cay Cup (Round Tortola), and Mount Gay Race Day on Friday, March 27, will launch the three-day Spring Regatta that forms the heart of the competition. “Our race courses are some of the best in the Caribbean,” Cayley Smit, the Regatta’s organiser, said, noting that steady trade winds and island courses allow race officers to tailor exciting onshore and offshore courses.
Professional race committees and volunteers from the Royal BVI Yacht Club will set courses that change with conditions, keeping competition varied and challenging for all classes. Robin Tattersall, 95, who has raced almost every year since the event began in 1972, said the regatta keeps him young.
His continued participation — often with crews whose average age hovers around 70 — underlines the deep traditions and strong community spirit surrounding the event. The bareboat class remains a popular entry point for visiting groups and local businesses. Long-time sponsor The Moorings supports charterers who race alongside professionals, while RiteWay Food Markets charters a boat to give employees and clients first‑hand experience.
Organisers encourage more BVI companies to take part, saying it’s an affordable way to showcase the Territory and build staff engagement. Each evening the Race Village at Nanny Cay opens to residents and visitors. The Thursday welcome event, hosted by Premier Dr. the Honourable Natalio D.
Wheatley, highlights BVI culture with local music, dance and art. Junior Minister for Tourism and Culture Honourable Luce D. Hodge-Smith praised organisers for integrating cultural programming that enriches visitors’ understanding of island life. The regatta also emphasises sustainability: organisers have phased out single-use plastic water bottles, partner with Sailors For The Sea, and are seeking ideas to keep crews hydrated without creating waste.
The event provides an economic boost during a key tourism window, creates opportunities for local marine businesses, and offers youth training through the Royal BVI Yacht Club’s learn-to-sail and race programmes. Whether you are a competitive sailor, a local business wishing to participate, or a resident wanting to volunteer or enjoy a night at the village, the Spring Regatta week offers racing, culture and community activity across the Territory.
Primary source: VI Property&Yacht