Sail away: Breezy Bahamas vacations go boat-centric

Boat races are serious business in the Bahamas, where regattas take place year-round. Credit: Tyler Karaszewski.

By Jennifer Olvera

Bahamas sailing competitions occur in plenty, and there are umpteen gatherings to watch for this time of year. Whether you’re into sailing yourself or simply appreciate the look of vessels as they bobble at sea, there’s no better time to book your Bahamas vacation.

Marking the start of 2012, the New Year’s Sailing Regatta takes place on Jan. 1. Over three-dozen sloops spanning an impressive 16- to-28-feet gather off the shores at Montagu Bay for a two-day race to the finish. Meanwhile, various festivitiesoccur onshore around Nassau and Paradise Island.

Can’t make the date? There’s always the George Town Cruising Regatta on the island of Great Exuma, which is perched 350 miles from Miami. Festivities kick off on Feb. 25 and include activities such as beach volleyball, boat and pet parades and family-friendly challenges from a scavenger hunt to sand-sculpting contest. Naturally, boat races take place throughout the celebration, which wraps up on Mar. 11.

Sloop sailing continues during the National Family Island Regatta. Launching from Exuma’s Elizabeth Harbor the last full weekend of April, it includes not just the race itself, but also fun, all-ages events, like wacky sports competitions, art exhibits and conch-cracking and can-peeling contests.

Whether you’re in the market for some adventure travel at Nassau hotels, entertaining a sojourn at Atlantis Royal Towers in Paradise Island or hope to catch a regatta amid The Out Islands of Exuma, one thing is certain: the fun floats on.

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Jennifer Olvera is a Chicago-based author, editor and food enthusiast, who travels often – usually in searchof her next great meal.

Tagged: Caribbean