English Harbour

The island of Antigua is a popular tourist destination, thanks to its clear Caribbean waters, pristine white sandy beaches, warm tropical climate, refreshing breezes, and welcoming locals. Positioned in the Eastern Caribbean at approximately 17 degrees north of the equator and surrounded by coral reefs, Antigua is the largest of the English-speaking Leeward Islands. Often referred to as the "Gateway to the Caribbean," it played a crucial role as a strategic port in the 18th century. English Harbour, located at the island's southern tip, was once a key naval base for the British Royal Navy. Today, with its natural deep harbour, protected bays, and two of the Caribbean's finest marinas, English Harbour has transformed into a vibrant sailing hub, drawing sailors and visitors from around the globe.

Sailing Week

English Harbour hosts several world-class yachting events each year. Antigua Sailing Week is one of the top regattas in the world. The Antigua Classic Yacht Regatta was established in the late 1980s to showcase only classic yachts, while The Superyacht Challenge features yachts over 80 feet in a competitive yet friendly race. The Antigua Charter Yacht Show, an industry-only event, connects luxury yachts available for charter with brokers.

Watching the luxury yachts in the marinas and observing the comings and goings of both small and large craft from a waterside café, bar, or restaurant is a delightful way to spend a few hours.

Nelsons Dockyard

When the dockyard, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, was restored in the 1950s, it was renamed Nelson’s Dockyard after Admiral Horatio Nelson, the British hero of Trafalgar who was stationed in Antigua from 1784 to 1787. Today, Nelson’s Dockyard is a picturesque village where restored colonial buildings house shops, restaurants, and bars. The Dockyard Museum, located in the former Admiral’s House, showcases exhibits about the dockyard’s history and ongoing archaeological research on the island. The stone pillars that once supported the sail loft roof still stand and can be seen at the charming hotel at Admiral’s Inn.

English Harbour is a popular destination for sailors from around the world. It’s also known as a “hurricane hole,” providing a safe anchorage for boats during Caribbean hurricanes. Additional moorage is available in the nearby Falmouth Harbour, a natural deep harbour within walking distance from English Harbour.

Shirley Heights

Shirley Heights is a restored military lookout and gun battery, originally used during the War of American Independence to protect the dockyard below. Named after Thomas Shirley, the Governor of the Leeward Islands who reinforced Antigua’s defenses in 1781, this historic site offers a breathtaking view of English and Falmouth harbours, especially at sunset. On Thursday and Sunday evenings, Shirley Heights comes alive with a barbecue and steel band performances, creating a vibrant atmosphere as the sun sets. For those seeking adventure, the Lookout Trail from Galleon Beach to Shirley Heights provides stunning views and an opportunity to explore native flora.

For more information about sailing events in and around English Harbour visit www.sailingweek.com and www.antiguaclassics.com

For more information on whats going on and things to do in Antigua visit: www.antiguanice.com And www.antigua-barbuda.org.