GROTTO BAY BAHAMAS

Not so long ago, these massive wooden vessels were life-lines to other islands and to the world beyond.  They transported vegetables, fruit, sheep and goats that were then traded for valuable commodities to bring back home.

Today Regatta is a poignant reminder of those times, keeping alive for future generations the old tradition of boat-building and sailing.  It is also a great excuse to party!  Like an adult Spring Break, the action is as much in the clubs and restaurants as it is on the water.

On Long Island, Regatta is a yearly event beginning on Thursday before the first weekend of June. 

The Regatta Site is in Salt Pond, and the race courses are literally in front of Grotto Bay. 

For 3 days, boats in numerous categories (determined by size) race along designated courses.

They must be Bahamian-designed, built and owned, and materials and configuration must be traditional Bahamian.  They must also be skippered and crewed by Bahamians.