Freeland Explores Antigua Charter Operations with Sunsail and The Moorings for 2027/2028

Minister of State in the Ministry of Tourism, Michael Freeland, is exploring the possibility of bringing Sunsail and The Moorings charter fleets to Antigua for the 2027/2028 season, potentially expanding the country’s sailing tourism business.

Freeland held discussions with Ian Pedersen, Head of Brand and Go-to-Market during the Annapolis Sailboat Show, where he is promoting Antigua and Barbuda’s sailing events and opportunities for increased charter activity.

Accompanying the minister is Devin Joseph, the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority’s Yachting Business Development Manager for Antigua, the United States and the United Kingdom.

According to Freeland, the representative welcomed the prospect of bringing fleets to Antigua to offer charters, particularly during Antigua Sailing Week. The discussions remain exploratory, and no fleet deployment has been confirmed.

Freeland said the two brands operate out of the British Virgin Islands and St Maarten and have more than 400 sailing boats and catamarans across their operations.

He indicated that attracting both brands could help Antigua and Barbuda reach customers in key tourism markets, with The Moorings primarily appealing to the United States market and Sunsail having a stronger European focus.

A presence in Antigua could provide more opportunities for visiting sailors to charter vessels locally, participate in sailing events and explore the country’s waters.

Additional charter activity could also generate business for marinas, provisioning companies, restaurants, transportation providers and other businesses serving the yachting sector.

Freeland’s engagements at the show also involve Rana Lewis, Marketing and Event Manager for Antigua Sailing Week and Antigua Racing Cup, who is part of the travelling delegation. He has also connected with Brian Duff of BVI Yacht Sales, who charters in Antigua and participates in the country’s racing events.

The Annapolis Sailboat Show brings together sailors, charter operators, boat manufacturers and marine businesses, providing an opportunity to strengthen industry relationships and promote Antigua and Barbuda’s sailing calendar.

The proposed 2027/2028 operations remain a subject for further discussion, with Antigua Sailing Week identified as a particular opportunity for collaboration.