Antigua arrival events. 

Stick around, we have planned nearly three weeks of fun with the Dawgs!

Upon arrival of the fleet in Antigua we will be sharing updates on the SDSA app and the daily morning net.  Many events have been scheduled already but are dependent on the arrival of the fleet.

As you approach Antigua we will reach out to you with any updates on entry procedures and the day's activities.  Fast boat or slow, be assured that there will be something happening when you arrive.

Any questions about events or what you need to know about your arrival can be addressed to me, [email protected]

And, consider having family and friends fly down to join in the fun.  All events are open to all and not limited to those in the rally.  Lodging is available at pre-season rates at the Admiral’s Inn, noted below.

Daily events will begin on or about November 12^th, run through Thanksgiving and beyond.  Most of these are low cost or free and the paid ones, such as the arrival dinner, are very reasonably priced.

These events are scheduled with dates below and are subject to change.  Our partners in Antigua have enthusiastically supported us from day one and every year the opportunities for the Dawgs in Antigua get better and better.

In addition to the following list, there will be informal events, hikes, get-togethers on the beach, sundowners aboard fellow Dawg boats, and lots of fun dining out at the many restaurants in the vicinity of Falmouth and English Harbors.  These events will be announced on the SDSA app and via the morning VHF net as noted below.

The arrival of our fleet in mid-November is a big deal for the island as the fleet shows up several weeks before the “official” season begins which makes our arrival very special.   Charles “Max” Fernandez, the Minister of Tourism, generally makes a point of welcoming us in person as we celebrate our arrival and I expect that this season will be no different. 

To reserve a slip in Nelson's Dockyard, reach out to the dockyard. To book a slip, follow this link.   They will need a deposit and an idea of when you expect to arrive and how long you plan to stay.  They will understand that your planned arrival date is, at best, a guess.  Rates begin at $1.25/US/ft for monohulls so this is a deal not to be missed.  These are special SDSA rates and a list of all participants will be shared with them so she will know you are a Dawg when you check in.  

Nelsons Dockyard Marina

Tel: 268 481 5035/5033

Cell/WhatsApp: 268 764 5022

Fax: 268 481 5029

Email:  [email protected]

The following describes a few of our key partners for many of our arrival events.

Our Partners

Antigua Yacht Club:  The Antigua Yacht Club is an important part of the yachting community in Antigua.  They have been very supportive of the Dawgs and continue to welcome us with open arms.  In addition to hosting a member-guest event, free to the Dawgs, they hold many sailing events and maintain an excellent small boat fleet available to members.  Consider joining at special rates for a month or the whole season.   Support them as they support us.

There are many other events at the AYC Clubhouse restaurant, quiz night, all you can eat sushi, steak night and live music.  (check out the board in the Clubhouse, above the office in Falmouth harbor for dates and details)

Admiral’s Inn:  Siblings, Paul and Astrid, whose parents founded one of the first resorts in Antigua are hugely supportive of the Dawgs and we will have several events at the Inn, located in the heart of Nelson’s Dockyard.  The facility includes both the Admiral’s Inn and Boom poolside restaurant across the harbor via free ferry.  Consider a bit of shore time or have friends and family come down to join the fun.  The inn is offering special rates for our members and friends so consider booking “shore time” upon arrival.  You will not be alone as I understand that many of you have booked rooms.  If you have not, it is not too late.  Face it, you need time ashore after a long voyage.  Follow this link to the rates and how to book your room.

Nelson’s Dockyard:  An important part of the National Park’s system of Antigua and Barbuda, the park has been designated as a UNESCO world heritage site and has been beautifully restored to its former glory when it was the Caribbean home port for the British Royal Navy.  It is beautifully maintained under the direction of director, Ann-Marie Martin.  Most of our events are to be held within a short walk of the Dockyard.

The dockyard is the “official” docking location for the Dawgs.  To book a spot on the dock, follow this link.

Arrival events calendar: 

The calendar is nearly full now but continue to check back as we may be adding events, changing times, and making adjustments as needed.  We will also be setting up some events in December and into January when many Dawgs continue to be on-island.

For the fast boats, no need to worry.  In case you arrive before the 12^th, other Dawgs will be in Antigua and we will set something up so we can celebrate with the “early birds”.  A number of us will be heading north to Antigua from Trinidad and points south, and should be on-island by November 10th or so.   Listen to the Morning Net, led by Bill aboard Kalunamoo for all the news, weather, and entertainment.  The net will be easily heard in both English and Falmouth Harbors on VHF 72 at 08:30.  If you are considering making landfall in Jolly Harbor, DON’T.  It will be hard to participate in events and will not be able to hear announcements directed at the fleet on VHF.

NOTE:  In most of the Caribbean islands the VHF hailing channel is 68 while 16 is reserved for emergency traffic only. 

Read about the latest Antigua Arrival Events here. 

Prepared by Bob Osborn,

President, SDSA
Rally Director
Antigua Port Officer
SV Pandora