St. Maarten Heineken Regatta attracts global sailors and sunbathers
The recent 33rd St. Maarten Heineken Regatta was indeed an unforgettable occasion as sail enthusiasts and vacationers from across the globe descended upon the island of St. Maarten for a fun-filled week of activity.
The world renowned Heineken Regatta has been a major crowd-drawer in Caribbean region and continues to attract a multitude of visitors to the isle from various parts of the world such as Europe, North, Central and South America and of course the West Indies. This 33rd edition was no different. The events of the Regatta not only gave several top international sailing teams the chance to compete against each other but it also gave many leisure visitors and media practitioners an opportunity to experience the many relaxing and cultural facets of St. Maarten.
While many chose to sunbathe or engage in the countless water sport activities offered on the island, others chose to explore the capital, Philipsburg (an area well known for its unmatched duty-free shopping and exciting energy).
The 37 square mile island which has received high ratings on travel sites such as Trip Advisor for its destination attractions and customer service also featured many entertainment options for the non-homebody. Visitors and regatta participants sampled local and foreign cuisine at the island’s numerous restaurants such as Bamboo Bernies, Taloula Mango and Cheri’s Cafe, hotspots e.g. Tantra Nightclub and beaches which include the famous clothing optional Orient Beach.
It must be mentioned that St. Maarten also has a wide range of hotels, villas and resort properties to accommodate the popularity of this annual Regatta. This year the Sonesta Maho Beach Resort and Casino housed several of the Regatta’s competitors, international performers and foreign press representatives. This particular hotel has a regular flow of guests and is preferred for its all-inclusive packages, high standard of service and close proximity to the beaches, nightlife and the Princess Juliana International Airport.
The Heineken Regatta which is run by the St. Maarten Yacht Club Regatta Foundation brought about days of excitement and competition and nights of festivity and relaxation. Sailors and boat owners from all over the globe passionately shared stories about their past competitions and ocean exploits while the island’s visitors and locals partied to performances by top musical acts.