XIII International Azorean Whaleboat Regatta

Maritime heritage, friendly competition, and spirited celebration surrounded a week of races and activities July 2-6 on the Azorean island of Faial, Portugal. Teams from the Azores and the United States competed against each other in sailing and rowing races on authentic Azorean-style wooden whaleboats during the thirteenth International Azorean Whaleboat Regatta hosted by the Clube Naval da Horta in Faial.

Twenty-four local men and women represented the U.S. from the Azorean Maritime Heritage Society (AMHS) in competitive rowing and sailing races against teams from the Azorean islands of Faial and Pico. In both rowing and sailing events, the U.S. women placed second and the U.S. men placed third. Team Faial placed first in women’s rowing and sailing, first in men’s sailing, and second in men’s rowing. Team Pico placed first in men’s rowing, second in men’s sailing, and third in women’s rowing and sailing.

During the first ever Amigos Do Mar Mixed Sailing Tournament, 6 teams sailed from Praia do Porto Pim, around Monte da Guia, and crossed the finish line in spectacular form in front of the Horta marina. Each boat contained a true mixed crew with rowers from the U.S., Faial, and Pico all working together towards the finish line. The race was a huge success and so much fun for all involved and further exemplified the bond that all three teams have with one another.

First held in 2004, the International Azorean Whaleboat Regatta is a major regional event and attraction for boating enthusiasts, maritime history buffs, tourists, and dignitaries from the U.S., Azores, and mainland Portugal. The regatta, held every other year, alternates between New Bedford and the Azorean Islands of Pico and Faial. The 14th International Azorean Whaleboat Regatta will take place in 2027.