The Spirit of Bermuda has announced its spring schedule which includes what is hoped to become an annual “legacy yachting tourism event” — the inaugural Antigua to Bermuda Race.

There will be several events and races in the Caribbean region on board the Spirit taking place between April 6 and May 22 and those interested in participating are encouraged to reserve their berths early.

The schedule culminates in the inaugural Antigua to Bermuda Race that will see the Spirit of Bermuda race the schooner America along with a fleet coming to the island just in time for the 35th America’s Cup.

Taking place from May 9 to 22, the race is open to sailors of all levels aged 16 and over at a cost of $2,500 per person. Classic yachts, tall ships, superyachts, maxis and racing boats will all be making their way to the island for the start of the America’s Cup, arriving just in time for Bermuda Day.

Chief executive officer for the Bermuda Sloop Foundation Diana Martin said: “This is promising for Bermuda and will bring many, many yachts, their owners and crews to Bermuda every year at the end of the Caribbean yachting season. This makes so much sense as yachts head for either Europe or the US, so why not come to Bermuda en route?”

There are other opportunities for residents to sail on board the Spirit during the spring in the Caribbean. The Antigua Classic Yacht Regatta from April 19 to 25 is described as “a truly spectacular event with some of the world’s most beautiful sailing boats”.

The “guest crew” are invited to book berths when Spirit sails from Antigua to St Barts. The Spirit will be a “special guest” for the West Indies Regatta — a celebration of the “true island sloops”.

Ms Martin said: “Our guests may be invited to sail on board one of those, or they may choose to spend time ashore to explore St Barts — one of the Caribbean’s most exclusive and beautiful islands. Spirit will then sail back to Antigua, stopping at one or two other islands, to prepare and welcome new “guest crew” for the race to Bermuda and a special ‘Spirited hook’ against schooner America, a replica of the first sailing vessel America, which gave the name to the America’s Cup.”

The schedule also includes the Bermuda to Antigua voyage during spring break for some of the island’s schools. Ms Martin explained: “It would be ideal for a family trip, a mother/daughter, father/son bonding experience or for anyone who has always dreamt of doing a passage on Spirit. Our professional crew will manage the ship while “guest crew” can participate, learn a lot about sailing and enjoy the experience.

“No sailing experience is required — all you need is enthusiasm and a keen spirit.”

For the full schedule of spring events and details on how to register, visit www.bermudasloop.org or call 737-5677. Deadline for registration is January 31, 2017.