The Heineken Regatta
Serious Fun – The “Best Parties” of Any Regatta
If you like to party, then the Heineken Regatta is for you! Embark on an unforgettable adventure aboard Arabella for the prestigious Heineken Regatta in Saint Maarten! Renowned for its thrilling races, vibrant island culture, and epic parties, this world-class sailing event is a must-do experience for sailors and enthusiasts alike. Whether you’re an experienced sailor or simply eager to enjoy the exhilaration of racing in the crystal-clear Caribbean waters, Arabella offers the perfect blend of camaraderie, luxury, and action. With expert crew, stunning scenery, and non-stop fun on and off the water, this is your chance to be part of the excitement and create memories that will last a lifetime. Join us and make this Heineken Cup one for the books!
The Biggest Caribbean Regatta
The St. Maarten Heineken Regatta spans four days of world-class racing and features over 110 boats from more than 35 countries. This regatta is renowned for its “Serious Fun!” legacy, combining competitive sailing with vibrant shoreside festivities, making it a cornerstone event in the Caribbean sailing calendar. You can read more about the Heineken Regatta here.
Serious Fun
The St. Maarten Heineken Regatta’s motto, “Serious Fun,” perfectly captures the heart and soul of this iconic event. It’s where the thrill of high-stakes sailing meets the Caribbean’s unbeatable party vibes. Imagine cutting through crystal-clear waters, battling it out with some of the best sailors in the world during the day, and then swapping race stories over ice-cold drinks and live music as the sun sets. It’s not just about winning; it’s about the camaraderie, the laughs, and the unforgettable moments on and off the water. From adrenaline-pumping starts to dancing under the stars, this regatta proves that the only thing better than serious racing is having serious fun while doing it!
Events, Events, Events
The St. Maarten Heineken Regatta is a four-day extravaganza of sailing every day and partying every night. It’s what the Dutch call “Serious Fun.” Each day kicks off with world-class yacht races. Then as the sun sets, the Regatta Village at Port de Plaisance transforms into a lively hub of entertainment, featuring live performances and nights filled with music and dance. In addition to the races and concerts, the regatta offers a variety of activities, including local food stalls, cultural performances, and after-parties. By joining Arabella for this regatta, you will be experience mega yacht luxury and also gain exclusive access to all the excitement, making it a truly unforgettable Caribbean adventure.
The Island of Saint Maarten
Saint Maarten is a tropical paradise that offers the perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and cultural richness. Known as “The Friendly Island,” this gem of the Caribbean boasts 37 pristine beaches with turquoise waters, perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing. The island is uniquely shared by two nations—French and Dutch—offering visitors a mix of European sophistication and Caribbean charm. Add to that the electric energy of the regatta, where the island comes alive with parties, music, and camaraderie, and Saint Maarten becomes the ultimate destination for an unforgettable mix of sailing, fun, and island bliss.
What’s Included
Relax in comfort and style aboard Arabella, your home for the week. Experience the Arabella Lifestyle with gourmet meals, stunning sunsets, and the camaraderie of fellow guests and sailing enthusiasts.
- 7 days and 6 nights of luxury accommodations on board, complete with gourmet dining.
- A spot onboard Arabella for the Mayor’s Races and the Festival Parade.
- The excitement of racing side-by-side famous schooners.
- A Boat Parade and the Festival Fireworks show!
- Opportunity to visit the famous schooners and tour the decks.
- A trip through the Cape Cod Canal.
- A final night back in Newport RI, the sailing capitol of our country!
Yes, take me to the Saint Maarten!
Start by joining this Festival List for more information & next steps.
The Itinerary – 7 Days & 6 Nights
Thursday, August 28
Guests arrive onboard Arabella between noon and 1 pm. She will be anchored in Newport Harbor. Enjoy a welcoming beverage, settle into your luxurious accommodations, and mingle with fellow guests over a gourmet lunch. As the sun sets, Arabella will get underway under engine power to cruise up Buzzards Bay towards the Cape Cod Canal.
Friday, August 29
Before dawn, Arabella will enter the canal on a fair tide and pop out at Sandwich, MA. From there, she will hold a direct course towards Gloucester, MA with a target arrival of earl evening. It the weather is fine and Arabella makes good time, then we will be able to participate in the “Greet the Fleet Day” and the “Chamber of Commerce Block Party.”
Saturday, August 30
After a nice evening of rest at anchor, you will be ready for a full day of exploration. It is Maritime Heritage Day in Gloucester and there will also be Schooner Deck Tours. You can go ashore and learn and experience so much about the schooner history which build Gloucester and our nation. That evening will feature the Boat Parade of Lights followed by the famous Festival Fireworks display over Gloucester Harbor.
Sunday, August 31
Sunday is the big day, starting with the Schooner Parade at 10 am. Schooners proceed from the Inner Harbor past the Fisherman’s Memorial on Stacy Boulevard and Stage Fort Park. Then they head to the race starting area off Eastern Point. At 1 pm, the Mayor’s Races will start off Eastern Point for the Esperanto Cup & the Columbia Trophy. The race course is decided that morning by the Schooner Festival Committee at a meeting with the captains of the participating vessels.
Monday, September 1
This is the Rain Date in case the Schooner Parade and Races are not able to be help on Sunday. If they are completed on Sunday, this is a free day of exploration for you to discover more about Gloucester and follow up on your new friendships in the schooner community.
Tuesday, September 2
Arabella sets sail for Newport, RI, where guests can enjoy one last evening on board or ashore. You will have many great stories to share about the Schooner Race and the incredible week of maritime heritage.
Wednesday, September 3
Guests will disembark in Newport in the morning.
Guests who cannot do the full cruise can still join Arabella in Gloucester.
StateRooms
All staterooms include:
- Single or Double Beds
- Individual Climate Control
- Electrical Sockets
- Ensuite Bath with Sink & Toilet
- Private Shower
- Hand & Bath Towels
Owners Stateroom
$3450
/ PER PERSON
- Largest and Most Luxurious Staterooms
- Queen Bed
- Located Amidships (the most stable part of the boat)
- 2 available each trip
Premier Stateroom
$3150
/ PER PERSON
- Queen Bed
- Located Amidships (the most stable part of the boat)
- 4 available each trip
Duluxe Stateroom
$2950
/ PER PERSON
- Queen Bed
- Located in the Forward Section of the Yacht
- 6 available each trip
Double Stateroom
$2200
/ PER PERSON
- Over/Under Single Bunks, ideal for singles
- Located in the Aft Section of the Yacht
- 4 available each trip
Single Stateroom
$2650
/ PER PERSON
- Single Berth
- Located in the Aft Section of the Yacht
- 2 available each trip
FAQs
Where do we meet Arabella?
Guests will meet Arabella in Newport, RI.
What is the easiest way to get to Newport RI?
All major airlines fly to the Big Apple and the closest airport to the Manhattan Yacht Club is Newark (EWR). From Newark, you can take a 20 minute Uber/Lyft ride to the club.
Do I need to have schooner or wooden boat experience to join this adventure?
No. This is what we call a “Regatta Experience.” It is one of the curated experiences created by Commodore Fortenbaugh and the Arabella team which form the basis of our “Arabella Lifestyle.” We love sailing and we also love racing. We want to share these incredible experiences with more people. So we have created these racing experiences. You can get a taste of the racing lifestyle without having to go through years of training first. If you like to be on a sailboat and also like a fun competition, you can do this. And in case we have not already said it, one of the best parts of any regatta are the social parties before and afterwards!
Do I need to even be a sailor to participate?
No you do not need to be a sailor to participate. But if you are not yet a sailor, we hope this experience will inspire you to get more involved int he world of sailing. The Manhattan Sailing School teaches adults how to sail every weekend in New York Harbor. As soon as you are ready, visit their website.
How much will be expected of me during the schooner festival?
During the cruise, our professional crew will manage the boat. But they would like your help whenever we need to raise the mizzen sail. This is our largest sail on the after-most mast (the mizzen mast). The mizzen sail is about 90 feet tall and we form a long line to pull the halyard. Not only does this promote teamwork and good feelings, but its a lot of fun and gets you pumped up as well. When we are cruising, the captain often allows guests to come up to the helm and help him steer Arabella. When in your life have you ever steered a 157-foot megayacht!!! This is your chance so have your camera ready. During the race, the captain, first mate or one of their designees will be steering at all times because of our need to keep Arabella moving as fast a possible. It’s a race, not a training session. But they will share their strategies, predictions and thought processes before and during the race so that you can follow along and be part of the action.
Will I have a chance to steer the boat or trim the sheets?
Yes, during the cruise you will have an opportunity to be involved in the sailing of Arabella. But during the race, the steering will be done only by the most experienced crew as designated by the captain only.
How should I pack?
Even though Arabella is a 157-ft megayacht, space onboard is at a premium. We encourage you to pack light. Please bring clothes in a soft duffle bag which can be folded up and stored in a cabinet. We discourage any hard suitcases because there will not be a place to store them in your room. For clothing, you will need enough to last the week and there are no laundry facilities on board. You can send laundry out in Martha’s Vineyard but it may pricey. Sailors specialize in making the most of a small wardrobe. All sailors look great in a blue blazer with a tie or scarf. You can get fancier from there as well. There is also be some special regatta gear which you can purchase before the event. Wearing the team gear to social events is usually well received. Most cabins have a few drawers for clothes storage plus a place for some hangers. The Premier and deluxe lines cabins have more storage space than the double and singe staterooms.
Are there electrical outlets in the cabins?
Yes. Each of the cabins has individual 110 volt electrical outlets. You will be able to charge your phone and computer each night. You can also run a hair dryer.
Are linens included?
Yes. The staterooms are fully stocked with linens and towels. Each cabin has a set of sheets, four pillows plus a fleece blanket and bed cover. Arabella does a “turnover” (where our stewardesses change the sheets) once per cruise, usually on the middle day, but sometimes staggered over two days (because there could be up to 20 guest cabins filled). It is recommended that you bring a small beach towel for your onshore excursions.
What is the situation with bathrooms and showers?
Each cabin also has its own private head (the nautical word for toilet), shower, and air conditioning. You will have privacy and be able to keep your room at your preferred temperature. However, water on a yacht is precious and we have to make all the water using our new Parker Aquamatic watermaker. Because our water supply is limited, please help us conserve it by taking “navy” showers or sharing with a friend. We appreciate your support and cooperation.
How is food and drink handled during the cruise?
All of your meals on Arabella are prepared by our gourmet chef. Arabella focuses on healthy eating and whenever possible, our provisioning is farm-to-table. Your cruise fare covers all breakfasts and lunches onboard during the trip plus four dinners. When you are on Martha’s Vineyard, those are the nights you eat ashore at any restaurant you choose. The cabin fare also includes non-alcoholic beverages. There is also a cash bar for beer, wine and mixed drinks which you may purchase while onboard.
Cancellation Policy
The Cruise Fare shall be deemed to be earned when paid and not refundable except as stated herein. If a guest cancels a trip 60 or more days in advance, they will receive a refund of all monies paid to ASA except 50% of the deposit. If a guest cancels a trip between 30 and 60 days, they will receive a refund of all monies paid except the full deposit. No cancelations are permitted within the final 30 days. If the guest fails to make an agreed-upon payment when due, they will be charged a $15 late fee for each additional day. If the guest fails to make a payment after 10 days after it was due, their contract can be canceled and no deposits will be returned.