Les Voiles de St. Barth Richard Mille adds the Caribbean Maxi Challenge

Les Voiles de St. Barth Richard Mille © Christophe Jouany

It's a first! After the Mediterranean, The International Maxi Association (IMA) has launched a new Caribbean circuit: The Caribbean Maxi Challenge.

Open to all Maxis longer than 60 feet, this circuit comprises four prestigious regattas, including Les Voiles de St Barth Richard Mille, which will be held on April 17-23, 2022.

Benoît de Froidmont, president of the International Maxi Association and creator of this new circuit, explains: "The idea of Caribbean Maxi Challenge is to offer the owners of the Maxis a homogeneous championship comprising several races. All of the participating regattas are excellent, but very different in terms of their organization. The long-range goal is to adopt the same race rules so that the competitors can confront each other on equal footing and have a championship that makes sense."

And the concept struck a chord: the offshore and inshore circuits launched respectively in 2016 and 2019 in the Mediterranean have been successful since their creation and attract the owners of numerous Maxi Yachts who enjoy racing against each other. As the Caribbean represents the second largest spot for Maxis in the world, it seemed logical to extend the championship, especially as the boats that cross the ocean have a tendency to stay for several months once they arrive.

The organizers of Les Voiles de St Barth Richard Mille are honored to be included in such a prestigious circuit: "Being selected by the IMA to be part of the Caribbean Maxi Challenge marks major recognition for us, as much for the professionalism of our race organization at sea as for the quality of the event on shore," notes François Tolède and Luc Poupon. "After two years without the regatta, we are really ready to revive the magic of Les Voiles, and 2022 promises to be a memorable year."

Register now for the 11th edition of Les Voiles de St. Barth Richard Mille and benefit from our entirely free concierge service: help with accommodations and car rentals, plus our professional advice to make the most of your stay on the island of St. Barthélemy.

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And they said...

"Les Voiles de St Barth Richard Mille is a legendary regatta for every sailor. The water is magical, the competition stiff, the organization on shore is fantastic. We get along great with the competitors and we also enjoy having a good time with the crews and our friends. We need a breath of fresh air between the water and the shore. For that, Les Voiles de St. Barth Richard Mille represents the perfect compromise." - Benoît de Froidmont - IMA president.