Sports and Water Sports in Antigua

Famous for their sailing, Antigua celebrates the sea in late April during Sailing Week. Yacht racing and beach parties dominate the island. The festival's grand finale is Dockyard Day - contests and games - and The Lord Nelson Ball. Reservations are required for yacht sailing and sea excursions, and should be made in advance. Contact Nicholson Yacht Charters (800-662-6066); the Catamaran Hotel (Ph: 463-1036); Wadadli Watersports (Ph: 462-2393); Jolly Roger (Ph: 462-2064) or Paradise I (Ph: 462-4158).

Snorkeling

The beauty and variety of Antigua's beaches are ideal for snorkeling. The Caribbean sea is tranquil and protected by coral reefs so there are no dangerous undertows. You can walk out to many of the coral reefs which are close to the shoreline. All of Antiqua's beaches are public and offer equipment rentals. Snorkel gear is also available at the hotel resorts.

Scuba Diving

Coral reef dives, night dives and wreck diving are spectacular on Antiqua. Certification courses and rental equipment are available at Dive Antigua (Ph: 462-0256); Runaway Beach Club (Ph: 462-2626); Aquanaut Dive Center (462-3483) and Dockyard Divers (Ph: 464-8591). Full or half day excursions are scheduled daily to the neighboring island of Barbuda.

Tennis

Antigua celebrates tennis in January during Tennis Week. Professional and amateur tournaments scheduled for men and women. A week long celebration of Women's tennis is held in April. The island has many excellent courts with some of the best at: St. James's Club, 5 courts (Ph: 460-5000); Ramada Renaissance, 8 courts (Ph: 462-3733); Half Moon Bay, 5 courts, (Ph: 460-4300); Curtain Bluff, 5 courts (Ph: 462-8400).

Golf

Two lovely courses grace Antiqua, Cedar Valley (Ph: 462-0161) with 18 holes, par 70 course and at Half Moon Bay (Ph: 460-4300) a 9 hole, par 34 course.