Sailing in St. Martin: the best festivals to visit by sailboat

Set sail for the North-Eastern Caribbean

 


If you're looking for the best festivals to visit by boat in the Caribbean, we’ve got you covered. Our team of experts has curated a list of must-see events, perfect for adding to your sailing itinerary around St. Martin!


St. Martin: A Sailing Paradise


St. Martin is one of the Caribbean’s most popular sailing destinations, and it’s easy to see why. Located about 150 miles north of Guadeloupe, this picturesque island offers a blend of French and Dutch culture and cuisine. Explore world-class restaurants, laid-back bars, legendary beaches, and much more—all conveniently near your boat.


If you’re interested in St. Martin’s festivities, sailing is one of the best ways to experience everything on your list. Set sail with NSS from St. Martin to reach nearby islands and discover their incredible event calendars.


St. Martin’s Festivals:



  • Grand Case “Fat Tuesday”
    A weekly street fair featuring food, art, and music, held from January to April.

  • French Side Carnival
    Two weeks of vibrant parades with zouk and reggae music in the streets of Marigot and Grand Case throughout February.

  • Heineken Regatta
    The Caribbean’s largest sailing event, offering unparalleled fun for spectators, from February 29 to March 3, 2024.

  • SXM Festival
    A week-long electronic music festival in St. Martin from March 11 to March 18, 2024.

  • Flavors of St. Maarten Food & Wine Festival
    A showcase of the island’s top chefs and signature dishes throughout November. Locations vary annually, but the Philipsburg waterfront always offers plenty of events, ideal for yacht holidays.



Festivals in St. Barts


If you’re seeking an exclusive island experience, St. Barts is the perfect destination. Accessible only by boat or a small plane, it’s ideal for a Caribbean sailing holiday. Explore the island from coast to coast in under 30 minutes, mingle with global celebrities, and savor the vibrant and unique Caribbean culture.


When it comes to St. Barts’ celebrations, you’re in the right place. During your vacation with NSS Charter, you can enjoy some of the best festivals to visit by boat in the Caribbean, including renowned sailing events, cultural festivities, and more.


St. Barts’ Festivals:



  • St. Barth Music Festival
    Featuring world-class musicians, symphony orchestras, and more, from January 15 to January 21 in Gustavia.

  • Carnival (Mardi Gras)
    Starting on the first Sunday after Epiphany, this extraordinary celebration includes parades, music, and dancing in the streets of Gustavia every Sunday afternoon until Fat Tuesday.

  • St. Barths Bucket Regatta
    A must for thrill-seekers, this famous sailing event features various regattas and entertainment, from March 21 to March 24, 2024.

  • Bastille Day (French National Day)
    Fireworks, dancing, and cultural celebrations on Quai Général de Gaulle in Gustavia every year on July 14.

  • St. Barth Gourmet Festival
    Held annually in November, this culinary festival celebrates the island’s cuisine.



Festivals in Anguilla


Small but mighty, Anguilla is a Caribbean gem located just a few miles north of St. Martin. Easily reachable by boat from St. Martin, it’s an idyllic destination to explore, free from the usual tourist crowds.


Known as the culinary capital of the Caribbean, Anguilla’s food scene is a must-experience, as are its year-round festivals. Add our selection of the best festivals to visit by boat to your vacation itinerary—you won’t regret it!


Anguilla’s Festivals:



  • Anguilla Summer Festival
    A Caribbean-style carnival with music, dancing, parades, and beach parties celebrating the abolition of slavery in the British Caribbean, held in July and August.

  • Sandy-Ground Festival
    Held on the Feast of the Assumption (August 15, 2024), this festival celebrates traditional games, music, and cuisine.

  • Anguilla Culinary Experience
    Four days of culinary experiences from May 23 to May 26, 2024. The festival raises funds to support culinary education for the island’s next generation.


Are you ready to plan your next Caribbean vacation? Contact us at info@nsscharter.com for a quote!


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