The docks at Nanny Cay Resort and Marina came alive last evening, April 4, 2024, for the launch of the BVI Spring Regatta & Sailing Festival now in its 51st year in the territory. Photo: Facebook

Welcome festivities kicked off on Thursday evening when the Regatta Village was officially opened with an art exhibition by local artists representing the significance of maritime activity in the BVI, past and present, and the sound of Caribbean melodies by local musicians together with traditional dance by the BVI Heritage Dancers according to Festival organisers. Photo: Facebook

Amidst the performances, Virgin Islands (VI) Premier and Minister of Finance, Dr The Hon Natalio D. Wheatley (R7) declared the festival opened, said years later, the event remains a highly anticipated sailing event in the VI’s sailing calendar and it holds a special role in his heart. Photo: Facebook

Welcome festivities kicked off on Thursday evening when the Regatta Village was officially opened with an art exhibition by local artists representing the significance of maritime activity in the VI, past and present, and the sound of Caribbean melodies by local musicians together with traditional dance by the BVI Heritage Dancers, according to organisers.

Amidst the performances, Virgin Islands (VI) Premier and Minister of Finance, Dr The Hon Natalio D. Wheatley (R7) declared the festival opened. Dr Wheatley said the regatta remains a highly anticipated sailing event in the VI’s sailing calendar and holds a special place in his heart.

The Premier recalled that his grandfather Willard Wheatley MBE, “who was the 2nd Chief Minister of the Virgin Islands and the Minister of Tourism, opened up the very first BVI Spring Regatta so many years ago.”

“I'm proud to have a role just like Chris [Haycraft], who continues the tradition of his father who is so central to this BVI Spring regatta,” he said.  

VI a premier destination - Premier Whealtey 

The Premier added that VI has the proud reputation of being the sailing capital of the world, “So you are in a premiere destination for a premier event and the Premier said that,” he added.

While the BVI Spring Regatta and Sailing Festival opened last evening, races officially started today April 5, 2024, where a quality lineup of boats pre-registered to compete across all classes, some new to the event and others who have been racing BVISR for many years.

The Premier assured first-timers they would not be disappointed. “We are happy to have you with us and for those who are returning, it's good to see you again. To the numerous sponsors, and in particular our regular sponsors, I want to express our sincere appreciation for your support in making this event a successful one,” he said. 

“This is what we call win-win partnerships, I'm sure that for most of you, competition is at the front of your minds. You want to do well and I wish you all success, but do remember that you are in paradise so take a minute to appreciate our beautiful scenery, our marine life, our beaches, iconic restaurants and all the wonderful things that make up the BVI experience,”  Dr Wheatley added.