So it felt especially fitting that the Annual Blessing of the Fleet for the Bucket Regatta took place on Wednesday beside the oversized anchor opposite St. Bartholomew’s Anglican Church. In that quiet moment before the sails fill and the races begin, sailors, islanders, and visitors gathered together, united by gratitude for the sea, respect for the boats that carry them, and hope for safe and joyful days ahead on the water.
The big awards party takes place Sunday, but every evening there is plenty of action on the Bucket stage at the Quay, where daily winners are celebrated with trophies honoring their standout performances.
On Friday, the crew of Maximus brought the energy, cheering their hearts out after an incredibly tight finish in their class. Meanwhile, the team from Melek arrived ready to celebrate in style after claiming both their class win and “Best Start of the Day”.
Once the trophies were handed out, the Bucket Bar opened, the local group Freedom fired up the music, and the dance floor filled quickly as sailors, locals, and visitors kept the party going, spilling out into the streets as all of downtown Gustavia joined the celebration of Bucket life.
