Official Regatta Information
The information given in this section is just to give you a basic idea about the various regattas.
For more up-to-date information about organising authorities, racing rules and regulations, programmes, racing classes, handicap systems, entry, etc., contact the individual racing committee: www.heinekenregatta.com
Background Racing Information

When racing, it is better to have a lower rating.  This means that when you are taking part in the race, there will be less time added to your racing time.  The higher the rating is; the more time that is added to your racing time.  Charterers will obviously wish to have the lowest rating possible.
    
If the yacht has a furling mainsail, then their rating is lower, as in theory it takes longer to get around the course, whereas if they have a fully battened mainsail, the rating is higher as in theory the yacht will get around the course quicker.

Entry & Registration
Boats may enter by sending their entry form to the St Maarten Yacht Club by fax, mail or email no later than 30 days before the start of the race.
    
Regatta Office
P.O. Box 999
Philipsburg
St. Maarten - Netherlands Antilles
Tel: +(5995) 20644 / 24370
Fax: +( 5995) 20643     
Email:  office@heinekenregatta.com
Website:  www.heinekenregatta.com
    
The race-courses are on the waters around the island of St. Maarten / St Martin.  The sailing instructions and course layout are available at registration.

Dates for 2012
32nd Heineken Regatta 2012 – 1st to 4th March.

Entry Closing Dates
The closing date for entry into the Heineken Regatta is 30 days prior to the start.  Anyone wishing to enter the race after this time will be liable to a supplement and is subject to Race Committee approval.

Booking & Price Information
Actual race days: March 1 - March 4, 2012
Base: St. Martin
Suggested dates for charter: Feb 28 - March 6, 2012
Suggested booking: 7 days, 2 days before start of race, and 2 days after end of race
Type of Race: This is an international race, which is point to point.
The race consists of sailing around St Martin.
All Security Deposits and Insurances must be paid in advance of the charter.

Classes & Classification
Spinnaker - Big boat, Racing and Racer / Cruiser.  CSA Rating Rule
Non-Spinnaker - Cruising.  CSA Rating Rule
Bareboat - Boats of this class will be restricted to recognised bareboat fleets acceptable to the Race Committee.  Only equipment provided as standard by Bareboat companies will be allowed.  No spinnakers, spinnaker poles, whisker poles or second head sail will be permitted.  CSA Rating Rule.
Multihull - St Maarten - Multihull Handicap System.
Fun Class - Simplified CSA Rating Rule
Beach Cat - Texel Rating Rule