ANTIGUANICE YACHTING INSIDER NEWSLETTER

Following the success of the CCR 2013, event organisers Sailing Rallies have chosen the beautiful and historic Nelson’s Dockyard Marina in English Harbour as the finish destination for the CCR 2014. This is the most significant change to the 2014 event benefiting rally participants, present and future.

The iconic view of Nelson's Dockyard from Shirley Heights. Photo by Antigua & Barbuda Tourism Authority

The fleet will leave Marina Rubicon, Lanzarote on 14th December and sail the 2900nm to arrive in English Harbour, Antigua. At this time of year, the trade winds will be fully established and a swift crossing time is expected. Last year the fastest boat completed the passage in just 13 days, meaning most boats in the 2014 fleet should arrive in time to join the New Year celebrations in Nelson’s Dockyard.

Sailing Rallies’ MD John Simpson commented “We listened closely to feedback from the 2013 participants and have since been looking at alternative destinations in the English & Falmouth Harbour area. Following a long series of talks, we are delighted to have reached an agreement with National Parks Authority and Nelson’s Dockyard Marina to host the arrival of the CCR 2014 fleet. We have mused over other Caribbean islands, but as an arrival destination after crossing the Atlantic, Antigua really is the best suited for our boats in many ways, not least in terms of infrastructure.”

As the yachting capital of the Caribbean, boats arriving in English Harbour will have easy access to the full range of yachting services, making the inevitable repair and maintenance work much easier after the crossing. Aside from the practicalities, Nelson’s Dockyard is a truly beautiful location and being steeped in history will make the arrival all the more memorable for the crews.

On the reception from Antigua, John comments “We have received a great level support from the local yachting community and Tourism Authority, so not only will this decision benefit the participants enormously, we are excited at the prospect of further developing our long-term affiliation with Antigua.”  

Nelson’s Dockyard has become synonymous with world renowned sailing events; as home to Antigua Sailing Week, they also recently hosted the Oyster World Rally and rowing event, Talisker Whiskey Atlantic Challenge. Ann-Marie Martin, Parks Commissioner for the National Parks Authority commented “Nelson’s Dockyard is a fantastic location for sailors, and we are very proud of the facilities we can offer. We look forward to accommodating the CCR crews here, at a time when the area will be buzzing with activity and we’re able to give them a warm Antiguan welcome.”

The CCR is an annual rally starting on 14th December from Marina Rubicon, Lanzarote and finishing in English Harbour, Antigua. Sailing Rallies’ focus is on creating a friendly and inclusive atmosphere to all those taking part by providing a flexible, professional and attentive approach – in addition to the standard offerings that sailors have come to expect from the increasing number of world-wide rallies. www.sailingrallies.com