Abaco Bahamas
Nestled in the northern Bahamas, just east of southern Florida, The Abacos are a dream destination for boating and sailing enthusiasts. Great Abaco serves as the "mainland," with its coastline beautifully scalloped by bays, coves, and protected harbors, all featuring full-service marinas and luxurious resorts.
Off Great Abaco’s eastern coast lies a string of picturesque barrier islands, creating a natural shield for the Sea of Abaco. This stunning, brilliant-blue body of water is shallow and protected, yet expansive enough to offer endless miles of sailing, exploration, and adventure. The Abacos truly live up to their reputation as a yachter’s paradise!
June in the Abacos brings ideal conditions for sailors, with steady trade winds, calm seas, and sunny skies. The warm, tropical climate is perfect for both competitive sailing and leisurely cruising, offering consistent breezes that make for exhilarating days on the water. Whether you're navigating between islands or enjoying the vibrant shoreside festivities, the Abacos in June promise a sailor’s dream come true.
Regatta History
The regatta’s roots trace back to 1967, when three sailors on Green Turtle Cay challenged each other to see whose boat was fastest — giving birth to an annual “Round the Turtle” race that quickly gained popularity among locals and visiting yachtsmen alike.
The Abaco Regatta Syndicate launched a traditional Bahamian-built boat race in 1976, called Regatta Time in Abaco. The two traditions operated independently until 1978, when the long-established and well-loved Green Turtle Cay race was incorporated into Regatta Time in Abaco, expanding the series and bringing its enthusiastic following into the broader regatta week.
Participation surged over the years. By 1984, the fleet reached a record 121 boats, inspiring the creation of the “Mother Tub” class to accommodate the growing number of cruising vessels. Year after year, the regatta became a celebrated summer tradition across the Abacos.
After pausing post-Hurricane Dorian (2019) and during the global COVID pandemic, the regatta returned in 2023 under its new name — Regattas in The Abacos. The revival honors more than five decades of history, community, and the enduring spirit of sailing across the Sea of Abaco.
The Organizers
Regattas in The Abacos is made possible by a passionate committee of volunteers who pour their time, energy, and love for the islands into keeping this tradition alive. Our organizers include sailors, residents, past participants, and long-time supporters who believe deeply in the regatta’s place in Abaco culture.
We gratefully acknowledge the essential role of our sponsors, whose financial and in-kind support allow us to deliver a high-quality experience for participants and spectators alike.. Their support helps us host events across the Abacos, provide quality race experiences, and create the welcoming atmosphere that sailors return for year after year. The regatta is truly a community effort—and we couldn’t do it without them.
To see the businesses that help make this event possible, please visit our Sponsors page.
The Wynsome Award
In loving memory of Wynsome Ferguson, we proudly introduce the Wynsome Award to be presented during the 2026 Regattas in The Abacos. Wynsome was known for her kindness, calm strength, and the way she brought people together with grace, humor, and a warm welcome for all.
This award will honor the boat and crew who best embody the values Wynsome shared so naturally: kindness, camaraderie, fun, and community—the true spirit of RITA and the Abacos.
While introduced for 2026, the heart behind this award reflects a legacy that will continue to inspire our regatta family for years to come.
TEAM RITA
Dwayne Wallace, Commodore
Josefina Adderley-Curry, Department of Agriculture
Wynsome Ferguson, Ministry of Tourism
Wynsome Ferguson, Ministry of Tourism
Josefina Adderley-Curry, Department of Agriculture
Wynsome Ferguson, Ministry of Tourism
Josefina Adderley-Curry, Department of Agriculture
Josefina Adderley-Curry, Department of Agriculture
Josefina Adderley-Curry, Department of Agriculture
Michelle Bennett, Digital Communications
Michelle Bennett, Digital Communications
Josefina Adderley-Curry, Department of Agriculture
Dave Helmick, Principal Race Officer
Michelle Bennett, Digital Communications
Stafford Patterson, RiTA Board Director