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. With its shallow protected waters and steady trade winds, the Sea of Abaco has long been considered one of the finest cruising grounds in the world.
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 roots of Regattas in The Abacos stretch back to 1968, when sailors on Green Turtle Cay began gathering each summer for a friendly Fourth of July race on the waters of the Sea of Abaco. What began with a handful of sailors and a few boats quickly grew into a cherished tradition, bringing together local competitors and visiting yachtsmen who shared a love of sailing, good competition, and island hospitality.
As enthusiasm for sailing grew, community leaders from across Abaco formed the Abaco Regatta Syndicate in 1974. In 1976, the first Regatta Time in Abaco was held in Marsh Harbour. Two years later, the established Green Turtle Cay Fourth of July race joined with races in Marsh Harbour and Treasure Cay, creating the foundation of the multi-island sailing series that continues today.
Unlike many regattas held in a single harbor, the event evolved into a unique cay-to-cay sailing adventure. Boats raced by day and gathered ashore each evening to enjoy local hospitality, celebrate community, and experience the distinct character of Abaco's island settlements.
Over the years, the regatta continued to grow, attracting sailors from across The Bahamas, the United States, and beyond. In 1984, participation reached a record 121 boats, and the popular Mother Tub class was introduced, ensuring that cruisers and recreational sailors could enjoy the competition alongside more serious racing fleets.
Following Hurricane Dorian in 2019 and the global COVID-19 pandemic, the event paused while the Abaco community rebuilt and recovered. In 2023, the tradition returned as Regattas in The Abacos (RITA), continuing more than five decades of sailing, community, and island culture across the Sea of Abaco.
Today, Regattas in The Abacos brings together sailors, families, and visitors for a week of racing, friendship, and unforgettable experiences in one of the world's most beautiful cruising destinations.
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.
Each host settlement plays an important role in welcoming the fleet, with awards gatherings, beach parties, and community celebrations throughout the week. 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
Michelle Bennett, Digital Marketing & Communications
Josefina Adderley-Curry, Lead Coordinator
Josefina Adderley-Curry, Lead Coordinator
Michelle Bennett, Digital Marketing & Communications
Josefina Adderley-Curry, Lead Coordinator
Michelle Bennett, Digital Marketing & Communications
Michelle Bennett, Digital Marketing & Communications
Michelle Bennett, Digital Marketing & Communications
Dave Helmick, Principal Race Officer
John Pinder, Parliamentary Secretary of Tourism, Investments & Aviation
Michelle Bennett, Digital Marketing & Communications
John Pinder, Parliamentary Secretary of Tourism, Investments & Aviation
John Pinder, Parliamentary Secretary of Tourism, Investments & Aviation
John Pinder, Parliamentary Secretary of Tourism, Investments & Aviation