Sint Maarten, October 20 – The Sint Maarten Yacht Club (SMYC) is set to host the 30th Caribbean Dinghy Championship (CDC), sanctioned by the Caribbean Sailing Association (CSA), from October 22–25, 2026. This exciting regional regatta brings together sailors from across the Caribbean in a variety of dinghy classes to give their all on the waters of Simpson Bay to see who comes out on top.
First held in 1985, the Caribbean Dinghy Championship has fostered a spirit of competition and camaraderie while providing generations of sailors with the opportunity to compete at the highest levels. It is also an excellent way for the islands of the Caribbean to collaborate on a shared vision between race organizers, their island partners, and sailors of the countries that they represent.
The 2026 championship will feature racing in the Optimist, RS Quest, RS Zest, ILCA 4, ILCA 6, ILCA 7, and Sun Fast 20 classes, offering both youth and adults from across the Caribbean a chance to compete together. In total, 9 nations will be represented by 70 competitors in 53 boats! Included will be Antigua, St. Kitts and Nevis, Trinidad and Tobago, Barbados, Bahamas, St. Vincent, Grenada, British Virgin Islands, and Sint Maarten. The race format for CDC will provide individual rankings, and the results per nation will be combined for the Nations Cup. For each nation, the scores from its five highest-scoring classes shall count toward its final Nations Cup score.
SMCY is delighted to welcome returning teams and new competitors to the island. Renowned for its consistent trade winds and vibrant sailing community, St. Maarten provides an ideal venue for the championship and promises an outstanding experience both on and off the water.
The 2025 edition of the CDC took place in Antigua and was dominated by the home team, and they are currently the defending Nations Cup champion. Their remarkable run has set the benchmark for Caribbean sailing, but the competition will be fierce as nations from across the region look to make their mark at this year’s Championship.
“The Caribbean Dinghy Championship represents the very best of sailing in our region,” said Saskia Revelman, Manager of the Sint Maarten Yacht Club. “Hosting the 30th edition is exciting for the Sint Maarten Yacht Club and for our island. We are excited to welcome sailors, coaches, officials, families, and supporters from across the Caribbean to experience the hospitality, competitive spirit, and exceptional sailing conditions that make St. Maarten such a special venue. With Team St. Maarten competing on home waters, we’re looking forward to an exciting championship and hope this will be the year the Nations Cup stays in St. Maarten.”
The Caribbean Dinghy Championship is owned and governed by the Caribbean Sailing Association, which is dedicated to promoting sailing and developing talent throughout the region.
This year’s CDC would not be possible without the assistance of our generous title sponsor IGY Marinas, and partners Sapphire Beach Club Resort, the Sint Maarten Yacht Club Bar & Restaurant, Zee Best Restaurant & Bake Shop, and Budget Marine.
For more information, including registration, the Notice of Race, event schedule, and accommodation details, visit smyc.com/caribbean-dinghy-championship or contact sam@smyc.com.
