Registration opens for 47th St. Maarten Heineken Regatta

SIMPSON BAY--Registration has officially opened for the 47th St. Maarten Heineken Regatta, scheduled for March 4 to 7, 2027.

The Notice of Race is now available through Yacht Scoring, allowing sailors from around the world to secure their place in one of the Caribbean’s largest sailing events.

The first team to register was the defending champion, St. Maarten’s J/105 More Zessin’, which claimed the overall title at the 2026 regatta. The local team emerged at the top of a fleet of more than 100 boats, with sailors representing more than 35 countries.

More Zessin’ is led by owner and tactician Ryan Hope Ross, who continues a family sailing tradition established by his father and helmsman, Ian Hope Ross. The team will return in 2027 to defend its title against another international field.

“Having a local team win the St. Maarten Heineken Regatta is always special,” Regatta Chair Cary Byerley said. “Our island has a deep sailing heritage, and seeing that legacy continue through the next generation of sailors is exactly what makes this event so meaningful.”

The second registered boat, Anomaly, also reflects the regatta’s focus on family traditions and younger sailors. The high-performance Diam 24 trimaran competed in a one-design class that featured 11 boats during the 2026 event.

Anomaly crew member Joris Vanden Eynde competed against his 11-year-old son, Axel, who sailed with the Buzz Race Team. The father and son faced each other during the Grand Case Beach Stadium Race Day, where both teams secured strong finishes.

Anomaly was helmed by Jolyon Ferron, son of regatta founder Robbie Ferron and Regatta Chair Cary Byerley. Ferron previously led a Melges 24 campaign and has since moved into the Diam 24 class.

Organizers said the event continues to bring together junior sailors, experienced competitors and families from across the world, while supporting St. Maarten’s maritime traditions.

Activities will extend beyond the racing, with the Regatta Village at Princess Port de Plaisance opening to competitors, residents and visitors each evening. Entry will be free, with family activities beginning from 4:00pm, followed by live entertainment, concerts and a food court featuring dishes from St. Maarten and Saint Martin.

The 47th St. Maarten Heineken Regatta will be held from March 4 to 7, 2027. Registration and event information are available through the official regatta website.

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