Martinique Cata Raid 2025: a spectacular 10th edition
Martinique vibrated to the rhythm of catamarans during the 10th edition of the Martinique Cata Raid, which took place from January 26 to February 1, 2025. This legendary race, which attracts crews from all over the world every year, offered a new spectacle this year with the introduction of a new category: wing foil. A look back at an event where sport, strategy and surpassing oneself were at the heart of the competition.
An exceptional race around the Ile aux Fleurs
Since its inception, the Martinique Cata Raid has established itself as a must-attend event for sailing and sport catamaran enthusiasts. This multi-stage race around Martinique offers a demanding course, combining offshore sailing and technical passages along the coast.
In 2025, crews had to face a variety of conditions, with winds oscillating between 15 and 25 knots, sometimes powerful swells and complex transitions in bays and canals. A challenge that only the most seasoned sailors were able to master brilliantly.
Race stages
International line-up and favourites
As every year, the race brought together competitors from Europe, North America and the West Indies. In fact, several destinations were represented: Martinique, Saint-Barth, mainland France, Belgium, the Netherlands and the United States.
Among the favorites, several champions of the discipline were present, reinforcing the already high level of the event.
The crews had to demonstrate a great capacity for adaptation in the face of the many traps on the course: tricky downwind passages, windbreak zones, and crucial strategic choices to get the upper hand on the fleet.
A striking new feature: the arrival of the wing foil
The 2025 edition marked a turning point with the introduction of wing foil, a fast-growing discipline. For the first time, 8 riders followed the same course as the catamarans, offering an impressive spectacle thanks to their speed and maneuverability.
It was a real challenge, especially over the long distances! But the conditions were ideal for pushing our limits
This innovation could well pave the way for a diversification of the Martinique Cata Raid, confirming its pioneering role in the evolution of water races in tropical environments.
A special mention is due to our Martinique champion, Anthony SMITH, who came 3rd in the wing-foil category!
Photo credit: Pierrick CONTIN, 2025.
A strong impact for Martinique
Beyond the competition, the Martinique Cata Raid is a major asset for the local economy and tourism. Each year, the event attracts not only top-level sailors but also companions, sponsors and the media, generating significant economic spin-offs for the island.
Many local and international partners support the race, highlighting Martinique's maritime potential and its attractiveness for water sports.
The winners' podium
The final podium of this edition is made up as follows:
With this 10th edition, the Martinique Cata Raid has proved that it's much more than just a race: it's a real human challenge where strategy, endurance and passion meet.
The addition of wing foil and perfect weather conditions made this edition a benchmark for years to come. See you in 2026 for a new, even bolder adventure on Caribbean waters!
