Antigua Superyacht Challenge 2025

The Antigua Superyacht Challenge is always an exciting edition in the superyacht racing calendar, combining world-class racing with Caribbean hospitality, a relaxed social atmosphere and friendly competition. 2025 marked the 14th edition. The event is not just about competition - it’s about celebrating the sheer joy of sailing in one of the most iconic yachting destinations in the world. There is no overall winner - instead, the highly prized Gosnell Trophy is awarded to the yacht which competed in the Spirit of the Regatta as voted for by the competing yachts and the race committee.

“The event has great momentum and a special way about it. SYRA has strong support and appreciation for the Superyacht Challenge Antigua and the way the organisers have maintained the event’s focus on safety, enjoyment and fair racing.” - Shirley Robertson, Manager of SYRA (Superyacht Racing Association).

This year's regatta delivered unforgettable moments both on and off the water. The Antigua Superyacht Challenge came to a close on Sunday 9th March, with the highly prized Gosnell Trophy awarded to Pendennis-refitted Catalina. Catalina holds a special place in the regatta’s history, having competed under its previous name Timoneer from 2012-2014. Fittingly, Timoneer’s bell which is the Gosnell Trophy itself is a symbol of the enduring spirit of this unique event.

The Pendennis team were also supporting fleet yachts Adela, Nostromo, Gitana and Rebecca. These beautiful yachts and skilled yacht crews competed in the Caribbean waters in a series of races. Well done to Adela who won the Privateers class, this was an extra special win for Adela as she marked her eighth regatta appearance by winning the class title for the third time. In the same class Rebecca came in at 2nd place and Catalina in 3rd. In the Corsairs class, Gitana came in at 2nd place and Nostromo achieved 3rd. In the Half Round the Island Race, honours also went to Adela.

The Rebecca (Spirit of Tradition) Trophy was won by Nostromo. Pendennis' Group Managing Director, Toby Allies commented "It goes without saying that a lot of the sailors, our team included, have worked days and nights to get these boats here. I know some of it’s been quite tough, and some of the boats have come in pretty hot, but I think a big round of applause is deserved for the crews and all the engineering teams that have worked hard to get these boats here. Thank you guys.”

Beyond the racing, the regatta's famed social events lived up to their reputation. In the Famous Cook Off, Freya claimed victory for the best meal, with Adela winning Best Theme for their grand plywood-Jeep entrance. For the notorious Caribbean Night, Karibu shone as the Best-Dressed Team, while Catalina dominated the Loudest Shirt Competition. In the ten-team Charity Paddleboard Race, Rebecca emerged victorious in a friendly competition that raised $1,300 for PAAWS Animal Hospital.

The 15th edition of the Superyacht Challenge Antigua is set for March 3-8, 2026. As with this year, the regatta will be held after the RORC Caribbean 600 and before the St Barths Bucket.

Sailors and supporters alike are already looking forward to another year of unforgettable racing and parties. The 2026 event will introduce a new course mark at Green Island, “Claire,” in honour of the late photographer Claire Matches, a beloved figure in the sailing community.

Next up in the 2025 regatta calendar is the St Barths Bucket, which kicks off from the 13-16 March. The Pendennis team will be in attendance as ‘Friends of the Bucket’ once again this year. We look forward to seeing Adela, Nostromo, Gitana and Vijonara out on the water.