Set against the stunning backdrop of the Caribbean’s crystal-clear waters and powered by the steady northeast trade winds, the St. Maarten Heineken Regatta delivers four days of world-class racing in idyllic conditions. An experienced and friendly race team ensures a seamless experience for participants, with sailors from more than 35 countries coming to race—ranging from Olympic medalists and World Champions sailing Maxis and Performance Multihulls to holiday-makers on chartered bareboats and live-aboard families cruising the Caribbean.
Each day features a single, well-planned race, blending windward-leeward and coastal courses designed to challenge crews of all levels. The regatta attracts a highly competitive fleet, particularly among 40ft and 50ft cruiser-racers, where skill and strategy play a key role in securing top results.
With Heineken as a long-standing sponsor, the regatta’s social scene is just as thrilling as the racing. The event has a well-earned earned a reputation for hosting top-tier artists like the Black Eyed Peas, UB40 featuring Ali, Astro & Mickey, Akon, Wyclef Jean, Shaggy, The Commodores, and Red Foo and the Party Rock Crew.
Beyond the competition and concerts, the regatta is also known for its Bridge shows—a fun and lively tradition where crews come together to showcase themed costumes, music, and creative performances as they pass through the Simpson Bay Bridge. Whether donning coordinated outfits, embracing an outrageous theme, or simply making a memorable entrance, it’s a fantastic opportunity for teams to bond, have fun, and embrace the spirit of the event. Making an effort as a crew not only adds to the camaraderie but also creates unforgettable moments both on and off the water.
Closest airport is Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM). Transportation from the airport is available via taxis or local buses. Flights before and after the race as well as transport to and from the airport are not included in the price and is the responsibility of the passenger.
Please take into consideration when planning your trip that the official dates for this race have yet to be announced. The dates currently listed are based on previous years dates and are, therefore, subject to change. We will update our website with the official dates as soon as they are announced.
Arrival in St Maarten and welcome on board. The official start time will be between 10:00 and 12:00 and will be communicated via the crew WhatsApp group. Meet your skipper and crew, followed by a safety brief and the regatta programme. The day will include getting to know your crew, cleaning and organising the boat, and making final preparations for the regatta.
After breakfast you will continue to make last enhancements to the boat and commence with the second training day.
The first race warning will start at 09:55, followed by price-giving for the day’s racing back at the Port de Plaisance Regatta Village at 18:00. The evening can be spent partying and enjoying yourself.
The second day of racing begins at 09:55. The evening will be spent at the price-giving back at the Port de Plaisance Regatta Village at 18:00 and enjoying the evenings live music.
The last race of the regatta starts at 09:55 and is followed at 1800 by the prize giving for the race and with the announcement of the regatta’s overall winner. The last evening to let your hair down and enjoy the last concerts.
My favourite part was when the skipper gave us plenty of helm time.
My favourite part was overall it was a very exiting experience with a really great team the vibe on board was perfect and we never got tired of winning!!
My favourite part was learning to work as a team, and getting advice from people that knew more than I did…and Alex. She made everything fun!
Everything about this trip is my absolute favourite.
