The 2026 edition of Pure Grenada Sailing Week concluded triumphantly on January 30th following six days of competitive racing and vibrant celebrations across Carriacou and Grenada. Sponsored by the Grenada Tourism Authority (GTA), this year’s regatta carried special significance as it marked a resilient return to Carriacou after the devastating impact of Hurricane Beryl, demonstrating the island’s recovery and enduring importance to the nation’s maritime heritage.
The event commenced with the ‘Rum to Spice’ feeder race from Barbados Sailing Week, which brought eight racing yachts into Tyrell Bay. This preceded final registration and the official welcome ceremony for the 23 participating vessels. Competitors were formally greeted by Shanai St Bernard, Nautical Development Manager for GTA, while Race Officer James Beniot provided comprehensive briefings to all skippers regarding regulations and race details.
Racing activities featured multiple challenging courses including the Island Water World Around Carriacou Race and the Clarke’s Court Boatyard & Marina offshore race from Carriacou to Grenada. After a scheduled lay day, competition resumed with Mount Gay Rum Race Day, featuring intense round-the-cans racing along the southern coastline. The week’s sailing concluded with the final Sea Hawk Paints race.
Evening events and prize-giving ceremonies were hosted at prestigious venues including The Original Slipway in Carriacou, Le Phare Bleu Marina, and Camper & Nicholsons Port Louis Marina at Victory Bar & Restaurant. The closing ceremony took place at the newly inaugurated Merveilles Hub, Chez Louis by Ora Caribbean.
Stacey Liburd, CEO of Grenada Tourism Authority, addressed participants during the final awards ceremony, emphasizing the event’s tourism significance: “Grenada Sailing Week is vital to our tourism landscape as sailors not only race but also explore and become part of our communities. The connections made here extend beyond the finish line, spreading Grenada’s story globally. This week has reinforced our reputation as a premier sailing destination.”
Notable winners included Richard Szyjan’s Category 5 (Grenada) in CSA 1, Judd Tinius’s Galatea (Grenada) in CSA 2 Combined, and Chris Rundlett’s J/Star (Grenada) in the J/80 class.
Endorsed by the Caribbean Sailing Association (CSA), the regatta remains a cornerstone event on the regional sailing calendar, attracting international competitors while showcasing Grenada’s optimal sailing conditions and renowned hospitality. Organizers have already confirmed future dates through 2029, maintaining the event’s position in the CSA racing series.
Event organizers highlighted the collaborative effort required for success, noting that “without the sailing community, volunteers, and sponsors, Grenada Sailing Week wouldn’t happen.” The continued partnership with GTA reflects the growing importance of marine tourism to the destination’s long-term economic strategy.