VIDEO: A look ahead to Les Voiles de Saint Barth 2019

By Katia Damborsky 8 April 2019

The landmark 10th edition of Les Voiles de Saint Barth is right around the corner, and a fantastic fleet of sailing yachts are getting ready to race in the Caribbean.

Held over a week between 14 - 20 April, Les Voiles des Saint Barth 2019 is expected to be bigger than ever this year, with close to 70 yachts and 1,000 sailors travelling to Saint Barths from across the globe to take part in the regatta action.

Officially called Les Voiles de Saint Barth Richard Mille as of this year, the event has long been a mainstay in the Caribbean regatta circuit. This year, the regatta expects to welcome famous racers Terry Hutchinson and Pete Cumming, who will be going head to head with stars from the French sailing community, including Roland Jourdain and Jean-Pierre Dick.

Charter yacht at Les Voiles de Saint Barth, with crew on the edge of the yacht

Two charter yachts on the water at Les Voiles de Saint Barth

On each day of racing, competitors will have to traverse one of 17 possible courses, most of which are based off the east coast of St Barts. The route will only be revealed on the morning of each race to account for the weather conditions.

Fresh from a class win at the Saint Barths Bucket, the 35m/115ft charter yacht SOJANA will be among the competitors at this year’s regatta. Looking to replicate her winning ways, the Green Marine-built ketch is a fixture at Les Voiles de Saint Barths, boasting maximum speeds of 26 knots coupled with cutting-edge performance on the water.

Another regular regatta participant on this year’s line-up is the 29m/94ft charter yacht WINDFALL, a 2012 launch from Southern Wind which stormed to victory at the 2018 edition of Les Voiles de Saint Barths. The sloop is a proven racer, while also a highly in-demand option for luxury yacht charters, thanks to her luxury accommodation and selection of amenities.

Man climbs the rigging of sailing yacht at Les voiles de saint barth

Sailors on deck of sailing yacht during Les Voiles de Saint Barth

Sailors in St Barts on board charter yacht navigating the waters

Promising more on-the-water action, this year’s event sees record numbers for two classes; 17 entries in the multihull class and 39 in the Spinnaker class.

Complementing the races, plenty of social festivities will be on the agenda, including live music, formal dinners and cocktail soirees. Wednesday will be a break from the races, with participants able to relax and unwind at a pop-up Nikki Beach event. Rounding off the final race, an awards ceremony and fireworks display will ensure the 10th edition goes out with a bang.