The History of ACBBA

A group of interested citizens sought to contribute to the development of the sporting aspect associated with whaling boats.

We believe that the formation of an association [ACBBA] could contribute to placing whaling boats on a much more interesting level for all Azoreans and for all the islands.
Furthermore, the issue of establishing an association for the development of the sporting aspect is part of a future-oriented dynamic associated with the much-discussed new Blue Economy, which highlights such relevant issues as the National Strategy for the Sea, the European Maritime Policy, the Extension of the Continental Shelf, the European Maritime Heritage, etc., where the Azores have a leading role to play.

Therefore, a group of citizens aware of this conceptual reality sought to make their civic contribution, legitimized by spontaneity and freedom of initiative, while understanding the requirement of responsibility when intervening in "public space".

This association began its activity by drawing up a protocol for the transfer and use of the boat “SENHORA DE FÁTIMA”, registration number SG-98-B. This boat, originally built in 1945 in Capelas by the shipowner Cristóvão Mota Soares, was completely rebuilt in 2010 by the cetacean observation company from Vila Franca do Campo, TERRA AZUL.
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To this day, it also promotes participation in regatta events on the islands of Pico and Faial for rowing teams, both female and male, as well as sailing teams in sporting and cultural events of reference in the whaling culture of the Azores.

Currently, ACBBA also has two other unique boats in its care, the “SANTO ANDRÉ” and the “VELOZ”, which are on the list of boats classified as regional whaling heritage. The main objective is to restore these two vessels. Not only for their very high socio-cultural and heritage value, but above all to strengthen the sporting offer of rowing and sailing for adults.