Every year around Christmas, St. Barthélemy—commonly known as St. Barth—transforms into a haven for superyachts, attracting billionaire owners and their guests from around the world. The island’s Port de Gustavia has recently undergone significant upgrades to accommodate more of these luxurious vessels.
Port de Gustavia is a central feature of the island’s allure to superyacht owners. This small but well-equipped harbor can accommodate 152 vessels, including superyachts up to 152 meters in length. The harbor is divided into two sections—commercial and sport—and currently hosts two dozen mega yachts and tens of speed boats, with up to hundred catamarans and sailboats anchored outside the harbor.
To meet the growing demand for docking space, significant upgrades have been made to the quay where mega yachts moor. The reinforced quay now extends beyond the ferry terminal to accommodate even larger yachts. These improvements are designed to solidify St. Barth’s reputation as a premier superyacht destination in the Caribbean.
Among the regular visitors to Port de Gustavia are some of the most famous names in business and entertainment. Media mogul David Geffen, whose Rising Sun is one of the largest and most iconic yachts in the world, is a frequent guest. The late Paul Allen, co-founder of Microsoft, also made St. Barth a regular stop with his yachts Tatoosh and Octopus. Laurene Powell Jobs, widow of Apple co-founder Steve Jobs, is another notable visitor, often seen arriving aboard her luxurious yacht Venus.
On Sunday, Port de Gustavia transformed into a vibrant Christmas Village, offering visitors the chance to experience the island’s festive spirit. The village features artisan crafts, local food stalls, and a warm, inviting atmosphere for both locals and visitors alike.
One of the highlights of the holiday season is Chanté Nwel, a special Christmas event held on December 22, which celebrates the season with live performances of traditional Caribbean Christmas songs.
The annual St. Barth New Year’s Eve Regatta is also a most anticipated event, bringing together sailors from around the world to compete in a race that blends both competitive sailing and a festive celebration of the New Year. Unlike traditional regattas, which focus solely on the race, the St. Barth New Year’s Eve Regatta offers an inclusive and relaxed atmosphere that welcomes participants of all skill levels.
The event features a variety of challenging courses, each offering breathtaking views of the island’s coastline. After the race, a grand awards ceremony takes place, where sailors celebrate their shared experience and the island’s vibrant spirit.
As the day transitions into evening, the island’s nightlife takes center stage. Upscale venues and beach clubs host all-night parties, offering gourmet cuisine, flowing champagne, and world-class entertainment. Exclusive celebrations are held at venues like the legendary Nikki Beach and Gyp Sea Beach Club, where the world’s top DJs and influencers gather to ring in the New Year.
The evening culminates with a spectacular fireworks display over Gustavia’s harbor. The sky lights up in a colorful explosion of light, marking the arrival of the New Year in grand style. The party continues well into the night, with guests dancing under the stars to the beats of renowned DJs and enjoying the island’s luxurious offerings.
As the island’s reputation for luxury and exclusivity grows, St. Barth remains one of the most sought-after destinations in the Caribbean for superyacht owners and celebrities alike.
Pictures and text by Erwin E Dormoy.
