Sailing has always been very popular in Curaçao and has a long history, starting when Amerigo Vespucci became the first
European to reach the island in 1499. In the centuries that followed, sailing ships were the only means of travel to the island,
and all freight and transport was dependant on the wind.

Curaçao's constant 10 mph trade wind is ideal for today’s pleasure sailors who pilot boats of all sizes. The island has a number
of deep, secure harbors, and its fringing reefs are all below 15 feet deep, making it easy and safe to navigate.

Curaçao has several sailing clubs, which are continually welcoming new members.

Every year in January, the island hosts an annual sailing event lasting one week. The Curacao International Sailing Regatta
has become one of the major regattas in the Caribbean over the past years. In 1998 the regatta received the “Hottest Cat
Event in the Caribbean” award. Now in it’s 22nd year, the event attracts sailors and their boats from all over the world. 

At the end of April, the island hosts an equally successful event called “Sami Sail”, held in the picturesque fishing village of
Boca Sami. The event is a two-day regatta sponsored partly by Curacao-Actief.  The focus is on participation by local
communities and promotional activities emphasizing the joys of sailing. Sailors and spectators can sample traditional food,
live local music, and learn about the history of the vibrant local sailing scene.

Even St. Nicholas sails to the island! He arrives at St. Anna Bay in the third week of November each year by boat, with his white horse
and entourage of helpers, known as “Black Peters”. The day is a highlight of every Curacaon child’s year as their families gather in
Otrobanda to celebrate this traditional event.