Antigua and Barbuda Cabinet Vows Overhaul of Antigua Sailing Week After Decline in Participation and Privatization Concerns

CABINET NOTES: The Cabinet expressed its disappointment over the Antigua Sailing Week events.

Although the franchise is held by the ABHTA and that a contract with a well-known promoter permits all major decisions to be made by that promoter, the Cabinet sought answers from the Chairman of the National Parks Authority (NPA), Senator Philip Shoul, and the Executive Director of the NPA, Ms. Annemarie Martin. 

The duo explained that in 2007/2008, the then Minister of Tourism, Hon. John Maginley, privatized Sailing Week by selling the franchise to the Hotel and Tourism Association.

A licence was then given to a private individual to determine the events which would characterize Sailing Week. In those days, as many as 142 boats would participate; the number today has fallen to less than 50 boats.

The Chairman sought and received policy guidelines that will result in Sailing Week continuing at the end of April each year, and that the licence to the private individual—which has expired—will not be renewed. 

Nevertheless, a Committee made up of all stakeholders will be asked to plan and execute Sailing Week 2026 with Government support pledged.

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