Change of date for 2026 BVI Spring Regatta & Sailing Festival
by BVI Spring Regatta & Sailing Festival 7 Jun 05:07 NZST
March 23-29, 2026
Scenic race courses in the BVI Spring Regatta & Sailing Festival © Alex Turnbull / Tidal Pulse Media
For 2026, the BVI Spring Regatta & Sailing Festival has moved the event forward a week from previously published dates to March 23-29. Additionally, Scrub Island will now kick off the Sailing Festival, and the Nanny Cay Cup Round Tortola Race has moved to Wednesday (March 25, 2026).
Chris Haycraft, BVI Spring Regatta chairman explained: "Historically our competitors have run into a number of logistical obstacles with the event taking place over the Easter period. This move should make it easier to attend in terms of flight, accommodation, and boat availability."
He added, "Swapping the two races of the Sailing Festival gives competitors a shorter race for the first day, allowing them to shakedown their crew and hone their teamwork before the 36NM romp around Tortola."?
With over 60 islands and cays, and sheltered sailing waters, the British Virgin Islands are known as the 'Sailing Capital of the World'.
In five days of racing, the BVI Spring Regatta & Sailing Festival embraces its unique topography, setting courses that create a bucket list regatta using a combination of islands and buoys. This format provides a scenic tour of the BVI, matched with perfect courses for all classes. The racing is managed by a world-class race management team with two course areas, ensuring that the right classes get the right courses and racing for the day.
The Regatta attracts a diverse fleet of international racing boats in addition to a strong bareboat fleet. Sailors can enjoy the two-day Sailing Festival, the three-day BVI Spring Regatta, or all five days of racing.?
While most sailors compete on their own boats, a sizeable number of the annual fleet compete on charter boats, and there are plenty of charter options available, from bareboat to performance race boats.
Sponsorship & Support
Nanny Cay Resort & Marina returns as host and presenting sponsor for the 24th year. The focal point of regatta social activities for the week is the Regatta Village at Nanny Cay which features the Big Top bar, satellite bars, food village, nightly DJs and live bands, tastings and demos, Moko Jumbies, art shows and more.
"The BVI Spring Regatta is one of the most popular regattas in the Caribbean," said Miles Sutherland Pilch, general manager of Nanny Cay. "At Nanny Cay we quite proudly feel that our staff, facilities and well-oiled regatta team play a big part in its continued growth and success. We're very pleased to continue our support of this event that showcases the BVI and its spectacular sailing conditions."
The Government of the Virgin Islands (GOVI) has increased its support of the event for 2026 and echoing Miles' sentiments, Cayley Smit, BVI Spring Regatta organiser said:
"Annually the BVI Spring Regatta brings sailors and spectators to the territory, and our year-round global marketing showcases the stunning scenery and boating life in the BVI. The ongoing development of art and culture displays and activities within the Regatta Village showcasing BVI culture, natural environment and maritime heritage is a new facet of the event that is supported by the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Sustainability."
Long-time Regatta partner, The Moorings has also already committed its support for 2026. Ian Pedersen, senior marketing manager at The Moorings & Sunsail, said:
"The Moorings is proud to continue our sponsorship of the BVI Spring Regatta, one of the premier events on the Caribbean racing circuit, and one that is near and dear to our hearts. We look forward to working with the BVISR organising committee to host another incredible event, and once again welcome sailors from all over the world to experience this incomparable sailing ground."
For further information, please go to bvispringregatta.org