Government House, St. John’s, Antigua and Barbuda – In a distinguished ceremony held at Government House on Tuesday, April 8, 2025, His Excellency Sir Rodney Williams, Governor General of Antigua and Barbuda, conferred the Faithful and Meritorious Service Cross upon Mr. Richard Hadida, Chairman of Oyster Yachts.
The national award, presented under the authority of the Chancery of the Orders and Decorations, recognizes individuals who have rendered sustained and distinguished service in fields of national importance. Mr. Hadida was honoured for his longstanding and visionary contributions to marine tourism and sailing culture, both in Antigua and Barbuda and internationally.
Mr. Hadida was supported at the ceremony by members of his family and by Mrs. Annmarie Martin, Parks Commissioner of Nelson’s Dockyard, whose presence underscored the strong partnership between Oyster Yachts and Antigua and Barbuda’s national parks and heritage institutions.
In his official remarks, the Governor General lauded Mr. Hadida’s “leadership, vision, and generosity of spirit,” which have “left an enduring mark on our nation’s tourism and maritime identity.” He highlighted Mr. Hadida’s transformative leadership since acquiring Oyster Yachts in 2018, his role in revitalizing the Oyster Regatta, and his support of the Oyster World Rally, which has helped establish Antigua and Barbuda as a premier global sailing destination.
In addressing the honouree, His Excellency Sir Rodney described the award as “a lasting symbol of our nation’s appreciation and the strong bond that now exists between you and the people of Antigua and Barbuda.”
The citation, presented by the Acting Herald, Ms. Rozanne Emmanuel, noted that Mr. Hadida’s work has significantly enhanced the island’s visibility and prestige, while creating meaningful economic and cultural benefits for the local community. With regattas that welcome over a hundred participants from around the world and world rallies planned through 2028, his initiatives continue to deepen international connections and showcase Antigua and Barbuda’s marine excellence.
In a brief response, Mr. Hadida expressed his heartfelt appreciation for the award, describing it as a profound honour and reaffirming his commitment to continuing the work of building lasting ties between the Oyster community and the people of Antigua and Barbuda.
Mr. Hadida joins a select group of honourees who have demonstrated exemplary leadership and faithful commitment to the advancement of the nation.
As a long-time Oyster yacht owner and proud participant in the regattas, I can say this recognition is well deserved. Richard Hadida has breathed new life into the brand and brought a whole new level of prestige and purpose to sailing. The experience of arriving in Antigua feels like coming home. the hospitality, the heritage, the world-class facilities, it’s all part of what he’s helped nurture. Congrats, Richard.
I knew nothing about him tbh but all night can say is well done.
It’s great to see someone making such a positive impact on our tourism and sailing industry. Richard Hadida’s work has truly put Antigua and Barbuda on the map for sailing. Proud of Richard for the recognition. I’ve been to a few Oyster regattas, and the atmosphere is always amazing. Antigua is definitely where sailing dreams come true!”