Antigua is now using its prime geographical location to assist hurricane-hit neighbours, including its badly damaged sister isle of Barbuda. The luxurious 150ft yacht Grey Matters made her sleek entrance laden with relief supplies for nearby islands.

The season kicks off early here this year with the seventh annual Salty Dawg Fall Rally – usually hosted in storm-hit British Virgin Islands – being staged for the first time in the Historic Nelson’s Dockyard in mid-November.

Meanwhile, more than 70 of the globe’s most luxurious boats have already signed up for December’s 56th annual Charter Yacht Show taking place in Nelson’s Dockyard, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Falmouth Harbour Marina and Antigua Yacht Club Marina. Registrations are ongoing for this esteemed event, the oldest and biggest industry meeting for charter yachts and brokers, the one which paved the way for all of its international counterparts. Proceeds from the 2017 show will go towards direct rebuilding assistance for Barbudans who lost their homes, via its charitable arm, and will be boosted by a fundraiser being held during the week of activities.

Plans are also progressing for the rest of the multiple, highly anticipated events held in Antigua each year, including the Superyacht Challenge, the 10th edition of the RORC Caribbean 600 and the 51st Sailing Week.

From carpentry, varnishing and sail-making, to engineering, provisioning and chandleries, all of the first-class facilities that made Antigua’s name are fully functioning and open for business. This year will also see the exciting addition of a new duty-free area in English Harbour. With a wealth of acclaimed hotels and villas, restaurants and bars to add to the mix, Antigua is rigged up and ready to go.