The Bonaire Regatta is one of the island’s most cherished traditions, uniting sailing, sports, culture, and community spirit. Each year, participants from around the world gather in Kralendijk Bay for thrilling races in ideal Caribbean conditions. Beyond the competition, the regatta features vibrant parades, lively evening programs, and festive gatherings that showcase Bonaire’s welcoming atmosphere. Organized with the support of Aquaspeed Bonaire and Massive Production Bonaire B.V., the event is a true celebration of international friendship and local culture.
Stichting Aquaspeed Bonaire Windsurfers (SABW) was founded on March 27, 1987, with the goal of positioning the windsurfing sport and Bonaire on the map. This goal has been successfully achieved through gaining recognition worldwide by various well-known windsurfing and sailing associations such as IFCA, IWA, and PWA. Since the late 80s, SABW has been organizing watersports racing and sailing events, evolving into a comprehensive sports event management organization. Over the years, it has expanded its activities to include several on-land events such as Fun Walk, Beach Volleyball, and Beach Bolas, among others. Additionally, SABW has successfully organized the Bonaire International Regatta for the past three consecutive years following the pandemic.
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06:30 – 07:20 | Registration at Eden Beach
07:30 | Start Swimming competition
09:00 | Start Recreational Swim
@El Mundo Restaurant
17:00 – 19:00 | Registration for all Sailing classes
19:30 – 20:00 | Captain’s meeting
20:00 | BBQ for Participants, staff and Vip’s
09:00 – 10:00 | Captain’s meeting at Kas di Regatta
11:00 – 17:00 | Sailing Races in the Bay of Kralendijk
17:30 – 18:45 | Nations Flag Parade (from Kas di Regatta to Main Stage)
19:00 – 20:00 | Opening Ceremony at Main Stage
09:00 – 10:00 | Captain’s meeting at Kas di Regatta
11:00 – 17:00 | Sailing Races in the Bay of Kralendijk
09:00 – 10:00 | Captains meeting at Kas di Regatta
11:00 – 17:00 | Sailing Races in the Bay of Kralendijk
14:00 – 17:00 | The Regatta Happy Hour (@Kas di Regatta) with Entertainment
09:00 – 10:00 | Captain’s Meeting at Kas di Regatta
10:00 – 17:00 | Sailing, Kite , Wingfoil and Windsurfing Long distance Races in the Bay of Kralendijk
20:00 – 21:00 | Award Ceremony & Entertainment at the Main Stage
Swim to Klein Bonaire – Competition & Recreational Swim
The 23rd Swim to Klein Bonaire returns on October 5th, starting with the exciting competition at Eden Beach, organized in collaboration with Jong Bonaire. A total of 58 swimmers joined last year’s race, making it a thrilling showcase of splashing strokes and endurance, with trophies and prizes provided by local partners.
At 9:00 AM, the recreational swim begins – open to all ages and all levels. From young to old, locals to visitors, it’s a joyful morning gathering where everyone comes together to share the challenge and beauty of swimming across to Klein Bonaire.
58th Bonaire Regatta – Event Summary
The 58th Bonaire Regatta delivered four unforgettable days of sailing, sportsmanship, and island celebration a true showcase of Bonaire’s vibrant maritime spirit.
Day 1 kicked off with 102 registered sailors taking to the water after the Sports Minister’s start signal echoed across the island. Two short morning races and a long afternoon race set the pace, while the colorful Flag Parade in the evening brought together participants from around the world in the heart of Kralendijk.
Day 2 continued with the same racing program right in front of Kas di Regatta, featuring steady sailing, light winds, and smooth, laid-back island vibes. Most classes completed three races, adding to the growing excitement on the leaderboard.
Day 3 brought light winds and hot conditions that made racing both challenging and thrilling.
Tricky starts and a mid-day collision kept the Race Committee busy, while several classes surpassed eight completed races, earning the second discard. The day ended with the famous Happy Hour at Kas di Regatta, packed with sponsors’ stands, food, drinks, and music highlighted by ATANIRO, who hyped up the crowd with pure island energy.
Day 4 tested sailors with unstable wind conditions. The planned long-distance races for Kitesurf, WingFoil, and Windsurf were canceled due to the light and shifting forecast, but two Optimist races and one Sunfish race went ahead successfully. The yachts completed their demanding long-distance course, with the fastest yacht and Overall Regatta winner (Edwin Versteeg / Team Bluefinn and Crew) crossing the finish line after 3 hours and 24 minutes of racing.
A special thanks goes to Race Officer Francisco Sánchez (Mexico) for managing the outside courses, Artie de Vries with support of Pien Ackermans (Zeeverkennerij Curacao) for overseeing the Optimists, and Jerry Domacasse for coordinating the Micro Boats near shore.
The regatta’s smooth and safe execution was made possible thanks to the dedicated support of the STINAPA Marine Park Rangers, CITRO rescue services, the Coast Guard, Harbor Master, and Customs Office — ensuring safety on and off the water. Appreciation also goes to Epic Tours Bonaire for providing the stable and beautiful start boat, and to BSSA and its team for their continued involvement and support.
As the afternoon heat rose, the final day wrapped up with the lively AquaFest “Boat Party”, where crowds cooled off in the ocean and enjoyed entertainment by Massive Productions, who also hosted the evening festival.
The Awards Ceremony by Aquaspeed managed by the Sailing Event’s spoke person Gerrald Victorina on the main stage concluded four days of racing, celebration, and community with happy faces and tired sailors who gave their all under every kind of wind condition.
This year’s Bonaire Regatta was truly one to remember. A heartfelt thank you to Aquaspeed Bonaire and its dedicated team and partnering sponsors for making it all possible.
What started as a lively gathering has now become an annual highlight of the Bonaire Regatta.
On Saturday, downtown Kralendijk transforms into a vibrant scene on the water – with yachts, small boats, jet skis, floating tubes, and even sunbeds drifting to the rhythm of music and laughter. Splashes, beats, and a festive crowd create an atmosphere you simply can’t miss.
Aqua Fest is where locals and visitors come together to celebrate in true Bonaire style.
