The British Virgin Islands is where Charlie Cary, a Navy veteran and sailing enthusiast and his wife Ginny first started The Moorings with a fleet of six Pearson yachts in 1969, and since, the business has become synonymous with sailing in the BVI. More than 50 years later the BVI remains The Moorings home base as well as its largest and most popular charter destination.
The world-renowned yacht charter company has been a long-time sponsor of the BVI Spring Regatta, and as Mark Figgins, commercial operations manager for The Moorings Yacht Club & Marina, BVI, notes, regattas are an opportunity to celebrate, support and promote the sport alongside celebrating the rich heritage of sailing in the Caribbean, and the company strives every day to share that passion with potential visitors.
“Our relationship with the territory is something The Moorings takes great pride in; we truly believe the BVI is the best sailing destination in the world,” Figgins comments. “Regattas are a spectacular mélange of sporting ambition and prowess with the social and culturally enriching social events, networking and making new friends and acquaintances. By sponsoring the BVISR and providing a fleet of catamarans for the Race Committee, we hope to help the race organizers deliver another wonderful event and put our collective best-foot-forward on the world stage, helping both new and repeat visitors alike to enjoy this beautiful place we are fortunate to call home.”
Michael O’Keene, company representative for Sea Hawk Paints says the Clearwater, Fl-based company’s relationship with the BVI Spring Regatta is beyond just a business mindset; Sea Hawk, which was founded in 1979, loves to give back to the boating community in a show of support for everyone who lives the boating lifestyle.
“We are a company filled with people that are boaters, so we understand in a very passionate way what it means to be on the water,” O’Keene says. “What better way is there to show our support than to sponsor an epic and iconic regatta such as the BVI Spring Regatta? We feel that this is one of the best ways! Our association with this legendary regatta goes back for years and shows the sailing community in the Caribbean that we are with you; it’s about friendships, making memories that last a lifetime, sharing in the joys of being a part of a world-class group of sailors and the amazing group of people that put this regatta together. We understand this community, and we want you all to have the best marine coatings in the world, Sea Hawk Paints, on your vessels!”
BVI Spring Regatta sponsors support the event just as much off the water as on the water. A proud sponsor since 2007, this year Sol will continue its long relationship with the event by supporting children’s activities at Art in the Village.
“We are all so excited to support for another year and contribute to the experience!” Nakeita Olton, Sol sales executive comments. “We will have a variety of fun goodies for the children to enjoy. Sponsoring the BVI Spring Regatta aligns with Sol’s long-standing commitment to the maritime community, and this sponsorship represents an opportunity to support the region’s yachting and tourism industries while reinforcing Sol’s presence as a trusted fuel provider. Additionally, it reflects Sol’s dedication to continuously foster and promote strong community relationships.”
Designed to be a family-friendly event, there is always plenty to keep the kids occupied in the Regatta Village while exposing youngsters to the sport we all love. Cape Air is proud to support kids’ activities this year by sponsoring the Kids Corner, where young attendees can enjoy a range of fun and interactive activities. Cape Air will be providing balsa wood planes for children to assemble and compete to see who can throw them the furthest. Additionally, the Cape Air team will be handing out frisbees and postcards to colour and send to a loved one, giving kids the chance to enjoy the event while being creative and active.
“Cape Air is thrilled to be involved with the BVI Spring Regatta; it is a perfect fit for the airline’s commitment to community engagement and supporting the local youth,” Rebecca Chace Cape Air’s Director of Marketing notes. “This sponsorship represents more than just brand exposure; it’s about building relationships with the community and fostering a love for sailing and the environment among children. Cape Air’s involvement with this community event helps ensure that the next generation of sailors and festivalgoers have a memorable experience and continue to come back on their own as adults.”
Major Regatta Sponsors
Host – Nanny Cay Resort and Marina
Government of the Virgin Islands, BVI Tourist Board, The Moorings, Mount Gay, Heineken, Sol, Coca Cola, Portland Ship Yard, Silver Airways, 284 Media/CCT, Sea Hawk Nautical Coatings, RiteWay, Scrub Island, Department of Culture BVI, La Marca Prosecco
Supporting Regatta Sponsors
Talking Points, Creative Waves, Golden Hind Chandlery, Cape Air, International Motors, Husky Towing
