The Azorean Whaling Boat Open Day brings together dozens of participants and strengthens cooperation between nautical clubs on São Miguel Island.

On June 20th, the Vila Franca do Campo Marina hosted another edition of the Azorean Whaling Boat Open Day, an initiative promoted by theAssociação de Classe do Bote Baleeiro Açoriano (ACBBA) that brought together various members, sea enthusiasts, and participants of all ages in a day dedicated to promoting and valuing this emblematic traditional Azorean vessel.

The event took place in an atmosphere of great conviviality, participation, and knowledge sharing, providing attendees with the opportunity to learn firsthand about the history, characteristics, and navigation of the Azorean Whaling Boat, one of the most important symbols of the Azores' maritime heritage.

The session began with a moment of particular relevance for the future of the sport and for strengthening cooperation between entities linked to the sea, through the signing of collaboration protocols between the Associação de Classe do Bote Baleeiro Açoriano and three important nautical clubs on the island of São Miguel.

The protocols were signed by the President of the Associação de Classe do Bote Baleeiro Açoriano, Neuza Azevedo, and on behalf of the clubs, by the Vice-President of the Board of Directors of the Clube Náutico da Lagoa, Duarte Rodrigues, by the President of the Clube Naval de Rabo de Peixe, Ruben Farias, and by the President of the Clube Naval da Povoação, André Ávila, symbolizing the joint commitment to promote, develop and preserve the practice, knowledge and culture associated with the Azorean Whaling Boat.

ACBBA considers these agreements to represent a significant step towards strengthening cooperation between nautical institutions in the Region, enhancing the potential for joint activities, training programs, exchanges, and outreach initiatives to local communities and younger generations.

Throughout the afternoon, participants had the opportunity to board, experience traditional navigation, and directly encounter the values ​​of camaraderie, respect for the sea, and preservation of cultural heritage that characterize this historic vessel. The enthusiasm shown by the participants and members present confirmed the growing interest in the recovery and appreciation of this important Azorean maritime heritage.

The Associação de Classe do Bote Baleeiro Açoriano thanks all participants, members, volunteers and partner entities that contributed to the promotion of these initiatives, as well as the Vila Franca do Campo City Council, the Clube Naval de Vila Franca do Campo and other institutional partners for their support, Terra Azul Azores whale watching and Melo Travel travel agency.

Agradecimento especial à Terra Azul Azores Whale Watching propriétária e responsável pela manutenção do Bote Senhora de Fátima, bote este que tem sido ao longo dos últimos anos nesta associação o garante da sua atividade no mar, estando sempre disponivel para os diversos eventos organizados assim como o OPEN DAY e Formação a decorrer no próximo fim de semana.

With initiatives like this, ACBBA reaffirms its commitment to safeguarding, valuing, and promoting the maritime heritage of Espírito Santo, ensuring that the tradition of the Azorean whaling boat remains alive, dynamic, and accessible to present and future generations.