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National Family Island Regatta in George Town
The National Family Island Regatta has filled Elizabeth Harbour off George Town, Exuma, with traditional Bahamian sloops every April since 1954, when it was founded to preserve the working boats Family Island fishermen once depended on. Hand-built wooden sloops race under towering sails while George Town fills with music, food and craft vendors onshore. Expect a rare traditional sailing class paired with a lively harbor-town festival.
The National Family Island Regatta has been the centerpiece of Bahamian sailing since 1954, when it was founded specifically to preserve and celebrate the traditional wooden sloops that Family Island fishermen and traders once relied on for their livelihoods.