Grenada Tourism Authority Highlights Robust Nautical Calendar asMarine Tourism Gains Momentum

The Grenada Tourism Authority (GTA) is reinforcing Grenada’s position as a premier marine and nautical destination with a dynamic slate of sailing and sportfishing events set to anchor the island’s 2026 nautical season.

Spanning competitive regattas, international rallies and heritage celebrations, the calendar reflects sustained growth within one of Grenada’s most strategically valuable tourism segments.

Grenada’s appeal within the global sailing and yachting community continues to be shaped by its natural geography, modern marina infrastructure and reputation as a safe, welcoming port of entry to the Southern Caribbean. With deep-water harbours, sheltered anchorages and seamless access to Carriacou and Petite Martinique, the tri-island state has steadily evolved into a destination of choice for both competitive and leisure mariners.

A major highlight of the season is the Pure Grenada Billfish Tournament, scheduled for

January 25–30, which enters a new chapter in 2026 with Pure Grenada named Title Sponsor for the first time. The tournament has been one of the Caribbean’s most established sportfishing events for over 50 years and has drawn anglers to Grenada for decades and continues to play a vital role in promoting the island’s marine heritage and high-value visitor experiences.

“The Pure Grenada Billfish Tournament represents the calibre of event that aligns with

Grenada’s broader tourism vision,” said Stacey Liburd, Chief Executive Officer of the Grenada Tourism Authority. “Our decision to step forward as Title Sponsor reflects a strategic commitment to strengthening the sportfishing sector while reinforcing Grenada’s standing as a serious maritime destination.”

Running concurrently, Grenada Sailing Week will also take place from January 25–30, with opening events hosted in Carriacou, underscoring the growing role of the Sister Isles within Grenada’s tourism narrative. The event blends competitive racing with cultural programming, encouraging extended stays and deeper engagement across communities.

Traditional seafaring takes centre stage during the Workboat Regatta, scheduled for January 31–February 1, which celebrates Grenada’s long-standing boat-building and racing traditions.

Sailors from coastal communities throughout Grenada, Carriacou, and Petite Martinique compete in handcrafted vessels, preserving a living maritime legacy that remains central to the destination’s identity.

The season continues into February with the arrival of the Vikings Explorer Rally, an

international cruising fleet whose participants typically spend several weeks on island.

Their presence contributes directly to marina activity, local businesses, cultural exchange and community interaction, reinforcing the economic multiplier effect of nautical tourism.

“Each of these events contributes to a broader ecosystem,” said Shanai St. Bernard, Nautical Development Manager at the GTA. “From international rallies to community-rooted regattas, the nautical sector delivers sustained value, visibility, and authenticity for the destination.”

Together, the 2026 nautical calendar reflects a deliberate and coordinated approach to marine tourism development, one that balances heritage preservation with international exposure and long-term growth. As planning for the 2027 season begins, Grenada remains focused on advancing its maritime identity and strengthening its position within the global sailing and sportfishing landscape.