St. George's, Grenada (November 29, 2012) - Strategically positioned to the south of the Grenadines island chain, Grenada provides an extraordinary base to host sailing and yachting events.
Offering a wealth of sheltered anchorages, year-round good weather, clear waters in which to sail, plenty of activities ashore and a wide range of top class facilities and services, Grenada has emerged as one of the one of the premier yachting centers in the region.
"The destination's waters offer some of the best sailing in the Caribbean, enabling us to host an exciting and diverse calendar of events," commented Dr. George Vincent, Minister of Tourism, Civil Aviation and Culture. "Grenada, Carriacou and Petite Martinique boast a year-round list of regattas and races that not only test the sailing skills but highlight the islands' unique blend of great sailing and great Grenadian hospitality," concluded the Minister.
Grenada Sailing Week Camper & Nicholsons Race Series, January 31 - February 5, 2013, invites sailors from around the world to come and "Sail de Spice." This newly announced international yacht racing event consists of four days of competitive racing, one Lay Day on one of Grenada's pristine beaches and six nights of hot parties. Part of the Southern Caribbean Regatta Circuit, the celebrations extend to a second weekend for a popular Work Boat Regatta from Grand Anse Beach.
The Grenada Sailing Festival Heritage Work Boat Regatta, February 9-10, 2013, traditionally features boats used for fishing from all over the island. These boats take part in Le Mans style sailing races competing in categories ranging from junior to senior. It is set against a backdrop of a beach party complete with local DJ, traditional steel pan, barbeque and lots of drinks.
The South Grenada Regatta, February 21-23, 2013, offers the thrill of sailing on warm waters, vibrant music and authentic Grenadian food. Come to Grenada for the Annual South Grenada Regatta to experience all this and more! The young and old, local and international all unite to share their love of the ocean that creates a festive atmosphere. Three major races with five categories, a pirate's trail, dinghy racing and a huge racing party with BBQ and live music will conclude the Regatta. Prepare for an exciting weekend of great sailing and good fun at the Le Phare Bleu Marina and Boutique Hotel.
Carriacou Regatta, August 3-6, 2013, is one of the most intriguingly diverse in the Caribbean. The event attracts competitors from around the world with work boats, racing boats, sailing boats and yachts. The event features races to Grenada, Union Island & Bequia, the Miss 'Aquaval' Pageant and other on shore activities and games, including the entertaining donkey race and other sporting events.
Getting to Grenada is easy, with various airlines offering service from North America. American Airlines offers 4 non-stop flights from Miami to Grenada on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays. Caribbean Airlines operates non-stop service from New York JFK on Wednesdays and Saturdays. The airline is increasing their service to Grenada for the Christmas peak season on December 18 - 20, 2012 and January 1 - 3, 2013.
From Canada, Caribbean Airlines operates a twice weekly non-stop service from Toronto on Thursdays and Sundays. Delta Airlines operates seasonal service from New York JFK on Saturdays, commencing December 15, 2012 through March 30, 2013 and then again July 6, 2013 through August 31, 2013. Air Canada Vacations operates a seasonal non-stop flight from Toronto on Saturdays, starting December 22, 2012 through March 30, 2013.
Air Transit offers a seasonal non-stop flight from Toronto on Mondays, beginning December 24, 2012 through April 15, 2013. ?Air Canada also has year round daily flights from Toronto to Barbados on Saturdays and Sundays with connections on LIAT to Grenada. In addition, West Jet operates a non-stop flight from Toronto to Barbados with connections on LIAT year round. Schedules vary seasonally, so be sure to check availability with your airline.
Recognized as the "Spice of the Caribbean," Grenada boasts some of the Caribbean's most beautiful beaches, delectable cuisine and spices, a tropical rainforest and a wide range of fun-filled activities such as diving, snorkeling, hiking, fishing and sailing. Romantic, natural and authentic, all of nature's best gifts can be found in Grenada. Grenada is a proud member of the International Council of Tourism Partners (ICTP).