A new regatta to be held in Bermuda is testament to the global reach and credibility the island is experiencing thanks to the 35th America’s Cup, according to Mike Winfield.

The chief executive officer of America’s Cup Bermuda described the Oyster Bermuda Regatta scheduled for 2018 as another “significant” development for the island, adding that more are expected in the future.

“We are delighted to hear of yet another legacy opportunity arising from Bermuda hosting the America’s Cup,” Mr Winfield stated. “The spotlight on Bermuda that we anticipated as one of the positive factors of hosting AC35, is already bearing fruit.

“We have been fortunate to have hosted, or being scheduled to host, a number of sailing events already and the Oyster Regatta is another significant development for Bermuda.

“It is very gratifying to see an event of this prominence booking their event in Bermuda post 2017. We expect more will be coming.”

The Bermuda Tourism Authority announced this weekend that the Oyster Bermuda Regatta will be held in Bermuda in 2018.

According to the ACBDA, this “is testament to the global reach and credibility that Bermuda is already experiencing as a result of hosting the America’s Cup in 2017” and would not have been a reality if the 35th America’s Cup was not being held in Bermuda next summer.

The organisation, which is charged with delivering Bermuda’s obligations and responsibilities as host country for the 2017 America’s Cup, added in a statement that Bermuda’s marine and hospitality industries will be enhanced as more large-scale events choose the island as their destination.

“The supporting industries such as marine repair, fuel, food, concierge and other support services will expand locally to meet the ongoing increased demand.

“This is one part of the long-term and continuing benefits that America’s Cup brings to Bermuda’s small and medium businesses and their employees.

“A number of other regattas have either happened or are scheduled to take place as a result of AC35,” the statement added, noting that Bermuda hosted the Amlin Moth Regatta in December and the RC44 Regatta was held here for the first time in March.

“The second Moth regatta is scheduled for December 3 to 9 this year and a few weeks earlier, the Viper 640 International Championships will take place from November 16 to 19.

“Additionally, the Antigua to Bermuda race, which is designed to bring yachts to Bermuda in time to enjoy the America’s Cup racing next year, is scheduled to depart Antigua on May 12.

“The Royal Bermuda Yacht Club is working in association with Antigua Sailing Week and 30 to 50 yachts are expected. It is the first of its kind and will help to stimulate the economy even further for AC35.”