Plein Air Painting
in Antigua

with
The American Society of Marine Artists

February 1-7, 2027

a distinctive itinerary

ASMA member Bob Osborn has developed a distinctive itinerary shaped by his long-standing connections on the island.

Participants will have access to locations and events well beyond the typical visitor experience.

Each artist who participated last year said it was one of the best trips they had ever done.

for more information

  • Watch the recording of the Zoom meeting below.

  • Scroll down on this page.

When

February 1–7, 2027

Please let us know by August 20, 2026 if you plan to participate. (Organizing a week like this requires considerable planning and coordination, so it’s important that we know if we have enough participants to move forward.)

What is this event?

A week of plein air painting, fellowship, and special events on the island of Antigua at English Harbour and Falmouth Harbour.

Are non-painting partners/spouses included?

Yes.

Will there be other things to do?

Yes, we will likely go sailing once or twice, possibly attend a party on a superyacht, have meals together, etc. There a couple of small beaches nearby that are gorgeous and uncrowded. We’ll get a personal tour of Nelson’s Dockyard, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, from the official historian.

Will there be a sale of the paintings we make?

Maybe — we’re working on that.

When should I book?

As soon as possible. The first week of February is peak tourist season in Antigua. Flights and accommodations fill quickly, so if you think you may attend, I strongly recommend making your reservations now.

Recommended Lodging

• more expensive:  Admiral's Inn – A wonderful historic hotel located inside the historic Nelson's Dockyard. It is in the center of the action but tends to book very early. 

• moderate price:  Antigua Superyacht Marina Hotel – Comfortable air-conditioned rooms overlooking Falmouth Harbour and the superyacht marinas. Most attendees stayed here last year because of its convenience and reasonable rates. 

• Inexpensive: Caribbean Villas – Charming rooms nestled in a steep hillside overlooking Falmouth Harbour. They are open to the air and most do not have air conditioning. Rustic, minimal, charming. Typical rates range from about $100–$150 per night. Contact Bob about these. There’s no website.


There are also other Airbnb and Vrbo properties throughout the area. If you would like suggestions, please contact Bob and he'll be happy to help you find accommodations that fit your budget.

How do I get there?

Roundtrip airfare is about $500-$700 from the USA. Once on the island, there is a 35–40 minute taxi ride to English Harbour.

Do I need a rental car?

No. Most activities are within walking distance, and taxis are readily available.

What will the weather be like?

Expect daytime temperatures in the low to mid-80s°F, evenings in the upper 70s, abundant sunshine, and pleasant trade winds. 

Is Antigua safe?

English Harbour and Falmouth are among the safest areas on the island and have always felt comfortable to us, even when walking in the evenings.

Money, phones, and internet

Credit cards are accepted almost everywhere. U.S. dollars are widely accepted. Cell coverage is excellent, and we'll use WhatsApp throughout the week to coordinate activities.

What group activities are planned?

Daily painting, welcoming gatherings, group dinners, visits to Nelson's Dockyard, scenic overlooks, beaches, and several special events that are not generally available to visitors.

Mobility

Those with mobility issues will find this trip difficult. There will be stairs, slopes, walking on trails, getting onto boats, etc. 

QUESTIONS?

Bob Osborn will be happy to talk to you.

photos of last year’s trip

We painted together in some remarkable places.

extraordinary beauty

The Classic Yacht Regatta

We admired and painted many of the largest and most beautiful sailing yachts from around the world.

meeting local islanders

We met with the Governor General of Antigua.