The February 2026 issue of Caribbean Compass celebrates 25 years of the conservation work of Environmental Protection in the Caribbean (EPIC) , dives into Dominican Republic carnival season , announces the annual Bocas del Toro Regatta in Panama, and captures the magic of Dominica’s PAYS Yachting Festival, where sailors and locals come together to celebrate the Nature Isle . This issue also features a deeply personal Caribbean Lives tribute to Rick Martell — sailor, artist, renaissance man, and beloved life partner to Compass editor Elaine Lembo — whose life embodied the curiosity, courage, and individuality that define the cruising community .
This Island Spotlight shines on Dominica — the Caribbean’s unspoiled “Nature Isle” where lush rainforests, dramatic volcanic landscapes, cascading waterfalls and charming coastal villages invite adventurers and cruisers alike to experience a side of the region that feels raw, vibrant and authentically wild. From Calibishie’s scenic shoreline and local chocolate makers to jungle trails and hidden natural pools, the feature paints a vivid picture of an island where nature and culture converge in unforgettable ways.
We remember Captain Rick Martell (1943–2025), a seasoned sailor, artist, and cherished figure in the Caribbean cruising community whose adventurous spirit and deep love for the islands inspired countless friends and fellow voyagers throughout his life. His passing on December 21, 2025, after a long illness marks the end of an extraordinary journey spent exploring, creating, and living fully on his own terms.
The People of ARC 2025 captures the spirit of adventure and camaraderie as more than 140 boats and 900 sailors from around the world gather in St. Lucia after crossing 2,700 miles of open ocean in the iconic Atlantic Rally for Cruisers. Their diverse stories — from multigenerational families to seasoned solo sailors and inspiring crews like the all-women team from Finland — showcase the passion, resilience, and community that define this unforgettable transatlantic voyage.
The 2026 PAYS Dominica Yachting Festival celebrates the vibrant cruising community with a week of camaraderie, local tours, beach barbecues and the thrilling Race to Mero, all set against the stunning natural beauty of Dominica’s “Nature Isle.” More than just fun, the event highlights how sailors and locals work together to strengthen nautical infrastructure and showcase the island’s welcoming spirit from March 21–27, 2026.
Budget Marine responds to recent U.S. tariffs by reshaping its global sourcing strategy — pivoting away from higher-cost American-sourced products toward European, UK and Far East suppliers to keep prices competitive for Caribbean boaters. The move highlights how regional marine retailers are adapting creatively to shifting trade conditions in 2025 to maintain service and value for cruising customers.
Step into one of the Dominican Republic’s most vibrant seasons, where Carnival parades, Independence Day celebrations, and nonstop music fill the streets with color, masks, and energy. Also discover the magic of whale-watching in Samaná Bay and the coastal adventures that make this island an unforgettable winter stop for cruisers.
The Viking Explorers fleet has departed Cape Verde and is now surfing steady trade winds on their Atlantic crossing to Grenada, with crews already calling it “textbook” ocean sailing. Follow their 14-day adventure as they make landfall in the Spice Island
The inaugural RS Elite Cup at Falmouth Harbour kicked off Antigua’s 2026 sailing season with close, tactical one-design racing, spirited camaraderie and classic regatta buzz that brought together crews from across the island. Despite stiff breezes and on-water drama, the event’s resilience, vibrant competition and festive ashore atmosphere set an exciting tone for the year ahead.
SVG Sailing Week 2026 (Mar 29–Apr 6) promises nine days of thrilling island-to-island racing, heritage regattas and vibrant onshore festivities across St. Vincent, Canouan and Bequia, showcasing the Grenadines as a world-class Caribbean sailing destination. The event blends competitive courses, youth and international fleets, and waterfront culture — from spirited racing to local music, food and celebration.
, dives into Dominican Republic carnival season 
, announces the annual Bocas del Toro Regatta in Panama, and captures the magic of Dominica’s PAYS Yachting Festival, where sailors and locals come together to celebrate the Nature Isle 
. This issue also features a deeply personal Caribbean Lives tribute to Rick Martell — sailor, artist, renaissance man, and beloved life partner to Compass editor Elaine Lembo — whose life embodied the curiosity, courage, and individuality that define the cruising community 
. 
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