St Barths Bucket 2025

The St Barths Bucket Regatta, scheduled for March 13–16, 2025, stands as a premier event in the superyacht racing calendar. As part of the prestigious series of bucket regattas, it emphasizes fun and camaraderie over competition. Set against the stunning backdrop of Saint Barthélemy in the Caribbean, this invitational regatta offers participants a blend of exhilarating sailing and vibrant social events.

What to Expect at the St Barths Bucket Regatta

The St Barths Bucket Regatta is a premier sailing event that takes place in the picturesque island of Saint Barthélemy, French West Indies. As a sailing enthusiast, you can expect an exciting and unique experience at this prestigious regatta. Here’s what you can look forward to:

1. Spectacular Superyachts: The St Barths Bucket Regatta showcases some of the world’s most spectacular superyachts, with a focus on sailing vessels exceeding 100 feet in length at the waterline. These magnificent yachts are a sight to behold, both on the water and docked in the harbor.

2. Bucket Stewards: The event is meticulously organized by the Bucket Stewards, a dedicated group of experienced sailors and yacht owners. Their expertise ensures that the regatta runs smoothly and safely, allowing participants to focus on the thrill of the boat race.

3. Popular Bucket Posters: Each year, the regatta features a limited edition Bucket Poster, designed to commemorate the event. These posters have become highly sought-after collector’s items among sailing enthusiasts and fans of the regatta, capturing the spirit and beauty of the event.

4. Youth Sailing Program: The St Barths Bucket Regatta proudly supports the Youth Sailing Program at the St Barths Yacht Club (SBYC). This program is instrumental in teaching children the values of respect, responsibility, and cooperation, fostering the next generation of sailors.

5. Hillside Villas and Coastal Roads: Spectators can enjoy breathtaking views of the regatta from hillside villas or along the coastal roads. These vantage points offer a unique perspective of the passing fleet, making for an unforgettable viewing experience.

6. J Class and Superyacht Racing: The regatta features a diverse array of superyachts, including the iconic J Class yachts known for their elegance and racing prowess. The presence of these historic vessels adds a touch of nostalgia and grandeur to the event.

7. Entry Fee and Entry Fees: The entry fee for participating yachts is used to support local charities, including the Youth Sailing Program at the SBYC. This ensures that the regatta not only provides thrilling competition but also gives back to the community.

8. Regatta Village and Bucket Bar: The regatta village, located on Gustavia’s waterfront, is the social hub of the event. Here, sailors and spectators can gather at the Bucket Bar to socialize, enjoy live music, and partake in various activities, enhancing the overall experience.

9. Sailing Enthusiasts and Yacht Owners: The St Barths Bucket Regatta is a must-attend event for sailing enthusiasts and yacht owners. It offers a unique opportunity to experience the magic of a Caribbean yacht charter, surrounded by like-minded individuals who share a passion for sailing.

10. Saint Barthélemy: The regatta takes place on the stunning island of Saint Barthélemy, known for its unique blend of French and Caribbean culture. With its pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters, St Barths provides the perfect backdrop for this prestigious event.

Overall, the St Barths Bucket Regatta is an unforgettable experience that combines spectacular superyachts, exciting racing, and a unique island atmosphere. Whether you’re a sailing enthusiast, yacht owner, or simply looking for a unique experience, the St Barths Bucket Regatta is an event not to be missed.

Historical Context

The inaugural Bucket Regatta took place in Nantucket, Massachusetts, in 1986. What began as an informal race among seven sailing superyachts has evolved into a celebrated tradition, emphasizing camaraderie and the sheer joy of sailing. In 1995, the event found a new home in St. Barths, where it has been held every March since. Over the years, the regatta has grown significantly, attracting a fleet of over 40 superyachts in recent editions.

2025 Regatta Highlights

Preparations for the 2025 edition are well underway, with early indications pointing to a robust fleet and intense class competition. Notably, several new builds are expected to make their debut, adding excitement to the event. The regatta will feature the traditional pursuit racing format, ensuring thrilling competition among yachts with similar sailing characteristics.

Special Classes

The 2025 regatta will continue to offer specialized classes to cater to diverse participants:

• Corinthian Spirit Class: This non-spinnaker class emphasizes a more relaxed racing experience, reducing the need for extensive racing crews and minimizing optimization expenses. In 2024, this class featured 11 entries across two divisions.

• 90-Foot Class: With three yachts already expressing intent to participate, this class is set to return, accommodating up to six entries.

• 100-Foot Racing Class: Anticipated to debut in 2025, this class will cater to performance-oriented 100-foot sloops that don't align with the traditional cruising superyacht criteria. Participants will engage in an additional day of windward/leeward racing on Thursday, March 13.

• J Class: Renowned for their elegance and racing prowess, the J Class yachts plan to return with a dedicated class start and an extra day of windward/leeward racing on March 13.

Preliminary Schedule

The regatta spans four days, combining rigorous racing with a series of social events:

• Thursday, March 13:

• Morning: Windward/leeward races for the 100-Foot Racing Class and J Class.

• Evening: Fleet Welcoming Party and an exclusive Owners’ Party.

• Friday, March 14:

• Morning: Pre-race briefing.

• Midday: First coastal race for all classes.

• Evening: Daily awards presentation followed by a Dockside Crew Party.

• Saturday, March 15:

• Morning: Pre-race briefing.

• Midday: Second coastal race.

• Evening: Daily awards presentation and the Bucket Bash.

• Sunday, March 16:

• Morning: Pre-race briefing.

• Midday: Final coastal race.

• Evening: Final Awards Ceremony and Party.

The organizing authority reserves the right to modify the schedule based on weather conditions or unforeseen circumstances.

Social Engagements

Beyond the competitive racing, the Bucket Regatta is renowned for its vibrant social scene. The 2025 edition promises an unparalleled social schedule, offering yacht owners and their guests a unique, fun-filled experience both ashore and on the racecourse. Building on the inclusivity of previous years, non-racing social entrants are again welcome to participate.

Participation and Entry

Yachts wishing to participate, either in racing or as social entries, are encouraged to request an invitation. A limited number of non-racing entry applications will be accepted. Interested parties should contact the event organizers for more information.

Safety and Governance

As a SuperYacht Racing Association (SYRA) sanctioned event, the Bucket Regatta adheres to stringent safety protocols, ensuring a secure environment for all participants. The Notice of Race and related documents are available on the official website, providing comprehensive details on rules, eligibility, and other pertinent information.

Conclusion

The 2025 St Barths Bucket Regatta promises to be a remarkable event, blending the thrill of superyacht racing with the allure of Caribbean hospitality. Whether you're a seasoned sailor or a yachting enthusiast, this regatta offers an unparalleled experience in the world of sailing.