Exciting Upcoming Events at West End Yacht Club: Join Us for the Manhattan Yacht Club Visit and Sweethearts of the Caribbean

The West End Yacht Club (WEYC) is gearing up for a lively few weeks filled with sailing, racing, and social gatherings. Two notable events are on the horizon that promise to bring members and visitors together on and off the water. Whether you are a seasoned racer or a sailing enthusiast looking to join in, these occasions offer excellent opportunities to connect with fellow sailors and celebrate our vibrant club culture.

Manhattan Yacht Club Visit

WEYC proudly holds the Manhattan Yacht Club Trophy, a symbol of the strong sailing ties between our clubs. This year, members of the Manhattan Yacht Club (MYC) are cruising the British Virgin Islands as part of their annual Caribbean Cruise. They will remain in the territory until 1 February, bringing a spirit of friendly competition and camaraderie.

MYC Commodore Michael Fortenbaugh has expressed enthusiasm from his members to engage in racing, sailing, and social events during their stay. This is a perfect chance for WEYC members to join forces with MYC and the Royal British Virgin Islands Yacht Club (RBVIYC) for a day of racing on Saturday, 31st January.

Racers and crews are encouraged to participate. Whether you want to compete or crew, your involvement will enrich the experience and strengthen the bonds between clubs. The day promises spirited competition and plenty of opportunities to share stories and sailing tips.

Manhattan Yacht Club and West End Yacht Club boats racing near Tortola

46th Sweethearts of the Caribbean

One of WEYC’s most cherished traditions, the Sweethearts of the Caribbean race, returns for its 46th running on Saturday, 14 February. This annual event is the club’s longest-running race exclusive to members, held in the beautiful waters off West End, Tortola.

The race welcomes all classes of boats. Classics have a special place in this event, but multihulls, beach cats, dinghies, and boats aspiring to classic status are all encouraged to join. The diversity of vessels adds to the excitement and showcases the wide range of sailing talent within the club.

Skippers’ registration will take place on the evening before the race, Friday, 13 February, at Omar’s on the Sandspit. This gathering is a great chance to meet fellow competitors, finalize race details, and enjoy some pre-race camaraderie.

Key details:

• Date: Saturday, 14 February

• Location: West End, Tortola

• Open to all classes, with a warm welcome to classics and multihulls

• Skippers’ registration: Friday, 13 February at Omar’s on the Sandspit

  
  

Join the Fun on the Water and Ashore

Both the Manhattan Yacht Club visit and the Sweethearts of the Caribbean race offer more than just competition. They are opportunities to build community, share experiences, and enjoy the unique lifestyle that sailing in the British Virgin Islands provides.

Here’s how you can get involved:

• Mark your calendars for 1 February and 14 February

• Enter the Sweethearts of the Caribbean race or sign up to crew

• Contact the club to find racing or crewing opportunities during the MYC visit

• Join social events connected to both gatherings to meet new friends and reconnect with old ones

  
  

These events highlight the active sailing culture at WEYC and the strong connections between local and visiting sailors. Your participation helps keep this tradition alive and thriving.