Wednesday, May 14, 2008

Bequia's Easter Sailing Regatta

At Easter time, Admiralty Bay, Friendship Bay and Lower Bay are awash with vividly coloured boats of every description, people, and plenty of action. Well known to Yachtsman for many years, Bequia boasts the best waters in the world for sailing. All nationalities compete in a teriffic array of races for yachts, fishing boats, gumboats, cocout boats and even one for 'crazy craft'. However, not surprisingly the indigenous double-ended boats remain the stars in the very special annual regatta. The racing starts on Good Friday and concludes on Easter Monday.

The Bequia Easter Regatta takes first place as a true Island Regatta and a great spectator event. Started in 1967, its reputation attracts numerous boats - both traditional and modern - and hosts a wealth of local festivities; all imbued with a spirit of old-fashioned fun and relaxed merriment for everyone.

The long Easter weekend brings Bequia's biggest annual revelry, when one and all join together to celebrate and rejoice in the islands seafaring traditions and skills. The Bequia Sailing Club's aim is to encourage and promote sailing skills in every type of craft, and the CSA accredited yacht races in the regatta offer challenging courses in Racing, Cruising and Multihull classes. Yachts from all over the Caribbean and beyond converge on Bequia at Easter to take part in one of the regions most popular island regattas.

Inspired by years of tradition, the hardworking members of the Bequia Sailing Club organise many events for the entertainment of all, and Hotels, Restaurants and Bars join in making extra plans for this 'fun for everyone' community-orientated event.

Creating a true carnival atmosphere, this long weekend marine fiesta has become a major tourist attraction. It brings virtually the whole Island out to watch the races and good naturedly cheer on the competitors.

A great beach bacchanal at Lower Bay is the main event on Easter Sunday involving Bequians, visitors, families and friends, with feasting, dancing, and Lay day activities such as the Crazy Craft race and Sandcastle competitions. On Easter Monday, vendors line the Port Elizabeth shoreline, selling food, cold drinks and local specialties, all to a lively musical background. It is under the shade of the famous landmark Almond tree here that a stage sets the scene for cultural performances and more fun and games.

Bequia's Easter Regatta ends on Easter Monday afternoon with the prize giving ceremony. In true Bequia fashion, everyone turns out to applaud the losers as well as the winners, and to add their support to the Bequia Sailing Club's commitment to maintaining and encouraging the tradition of boatbuilding, sailing and racing on the island.

A fabulous, colourful, friendly event - be sure to be there!