For four exhilarating days, the stunning waters off Antigua played host to the 14th edition of the Superyacht Challenge Antigua, bringing together a fleet of majestic yachts, passionate sailors, and an atmosphere charged with competition and camaraderie. This year’s regatta delivered unforgettable moments both on and off the water.
With subtle changes in both the weather and course choices sailors were presented with dynamic challenges, from tactical manoeuvres in shifting winds to thrilling finishes where seconds made all the difference. Under clear Caribbean skies and 10-17 knots of moderate trade winds, over 250 sailors enjoyed ideal sailing conditions. A variety of courses laid by PRO Hank Stuart and the SYCA Race Committee made best use of the conditions to test skill, precision, and teamwork.
In the stand-alone Round Antigua Race, the 121ft (37m) Dykstra sloop Action, captained by Angus Fuller was the victor, winning the Antigua Rigging Trophy in honour of the late SYCA founder Stan Pearson.
In the Half Round the Island Race, honours went to the 182ft (55.5m) Dykstra schooner Adela with Oyster 885 Karibu, captained by Williams Dovey, taking the Corinthian Division prize.
In the Corsairs Class, Action secured its third class win in four regattas, maintaining an unbroken podium streak.
In the Privateers Class, the 182ft (55.5m) Dykstra schooner Adela, Captained by Greg Perkins was marking its eighth regatta appearance by winning the class title for the third time.
And for the Buccaneers Class, it was Swan 90 Freya, captained by Joph Carter, that was triumphant – winning for the second year in a row.
Finally, the Gosnell Trophy was awarded to the 148ft (45m) Dubois ketch Catalina, captained by Sean Whitney. Catalina holds a special place in the regatta’s history, having competed under its previous name Timoneer from 2012-2014. Fittingly, it’s Timoneer’s bell that is the Gosnell Trophy itself, and a symbol of the enduring spirit of this unique event.
The 15th edition of the Superyacht Challenge Antigua is set for March 3-8, 2026.
Photos by Tim Wright. Visit www.photoaction.com/syc25 for more.
