With its sheltered bays, turquoise blue waters, warm trade winds and sandy beaches, the dual-island nation of Antigua and Barbuda are the prefect escape. For those enjoy sailing, coming here is the ultimate vacation. Part of Antigua and Barbuda’s rich past, sailing here has been around for centuries.

A key British naval base during the colonial period, the island of Antigua was for a long time a vital British stronghold in the region. Under Admiral Horatio Nelson, English Harbor was fortified to become an important port in the Caribbean during its heyday. Today, Antigua continues on with this rich tradition of sailing by hosting a number of yachting and sailing events in the calendar year.

During late April, Antigua hosts a ‘Sailing Week,’ where yachts, boats and catamarans from all over the world come to sail in extremely favorable weather conditions. Beach parties are thrown and yacht races are held throughout the week. ‘Dockyard Day’ culminates ‘Sailing Week’ with a number of contests and competitions held in the English and Jolly Harbors. Sailing Week is among the top global sailing events.

A regatta is also held around this time, with boats coming here to compete from all over the world. The Classic Yacht Regatta is considered by many to be one of the top regattas. For those who don’t make it in here in April, the Antigua Yacht Show is held in the first week of December for all yachting enthusiasts to enjoy.

If you are one of those people who simply enjoy the purity of sailing in the open seas, there are a number of yacht and sailing charters and excursions that can be arranged from any number of harbors in Antigua. Remember to make an advance booking for a sailing trip, so as to avoid disappointment.

Spend your days in Antigua and Barbuda sailing around these picturesque and fascinating islands, or simply dock here to enjoy several magnificent sunsets. Both English Harbor and Jolly Harbor make for the ideal yacht headquarters. You can rent a Sunfish or Sailfish from your hotel, or visit the many boat rental companies on the island to hire a small vessel or catamaran. If you are not an experienced sailor, you can even rent a small crew out for a day or even a week, depending on your budget.