The U.S. Virgin Islands will launch its first annual USVI Sailing Week, April 8–11, 2027, bringing together three major boating events for four days of racing, island-hopping, and waterfront festivities across St. Thomas, St. John, and St. Croix. The inaugural event combines the 53rd St. Thomas International Regatta (STIR), the Three Sheets Regatta & Rally, and the Virgin Islands Boating Expo (VIBE).
Festivities kick off April 8 with the Round the Rocks Race around St. John, followed by three days of competitive STIR racing off St. Thomas.
“A highlight will be stadium-style IC24 racing off the Charlotte Amalie waterfront, putting spectators close to the action,” said Bobby Brooks, STIR co-director with Greer Scholes and director of the St. Thomas Sailing Center. “Add VIBE at IGY’s Yacht Haven Grande, daily awards, and parties every night, and it’s a great way to showcase sailing and boating in the U.S. Virgin Islands. We’re grateful to the U.S. Virgin Islands Department of Tourism for its tremendous support.”
The Three Sheets Regatta & Rally will take sailors on a roughly 100-nautical-mile journey between the three islands, with participants able to complete one leg or the entire route. VIBE, hosted at IGY’s Yacht Haven Grande, will showcase yachts and boating experiences, while nightly parties, live music and awards ceremonies will keep the celebrations going ashore.
The new sailing week aims to spotlight the USVI’s vibrant maritime culture and strengthen its reputation as a premier Caribbean sailing destination.
Image by: www.ingridabery.com
