Buzzing the beach in Aruba.

This year will mark the thirteenth year for the Aruba Heineken Catamaran Regatta. Thirteen must be a lucky number as this will be the regatta’s biggest year. The regatta attracts catamarans and catamaran sailors from throughout the world. Saturday October 4 2003, 49 catamarans left the harbors of Rotterdam and Felixstowe via ship bound for Aruba where 53 teams will compete November 9 –14, 2003. Attracting twenty-seven sailors from the Netherlands, nineteen from England, two from Belgium, one from Austria and four from Aruba, the fleet tops last year’s by twelve. Organizers credit this year’s overwhelming response to last year’s success, positive promotions and good television coverage.

Organizer Edwin Lodder commented, "Of course, I hoped for a small increase, but I did not expect such a big interest in the event. I want to maintain the high level of quality; therefore I had to disappoint ten teams. Unfortunately for them, they are on the waiting list for Aruba."

The eight races will take place under the supervision of Edwin Lodder. With the exception of the Wednesday lay-day, the schedule calls for two races per day plus a semi long distance and a long distance race. Most races tend to last approximately one hour and spectating is encouraged as races are held close to the beach. Results are calculated using the ISAF handicap system. Although all boats start together the fleet is spit into classes dependent on their assigned handicap. Daily prizes are awarded to the first three finishers in each class.

A wide variety of boats are sailed including Hurricane 5.9, Tornado, Nacra Inter 18 & 20, Nacra 6.0, Dart 18, Hawk, Storm F20, Spitfire, Hobie Tiger and various other Hobies and Prindles. According to the official website, “The competitors vary in ability from those new to the sport to world champions and everyone enjoys the close racing and camaraderie of all the nationalities taking part.”

For approximately €1700, European competitors can shipped their boats and themselves from Amsterdam, register for the race, have eights nights Bed and Breakfast at Aruba Holiday Inn Hotel, entry to the parties, and enjoy five sponsored lunches. Given sailing conditions for catamarans in the European waters this time of year requires a hardy constitution and a wet suit, this looks like an attractive offer. No wonder this race is growing in popularity.

For more information on the Aruba Heineken Catamaran Regatta check out the official regatta website.

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