ACBBA: Who we are
The purposes and activities of ACBBA
ACBBA is dedicated to the study, promotion, and revitalization of the Azorean whaling culture. As one of the few privately led associations committed to safeguarding a heritage of clear public interest, it plays a unique role in preserving a cultural legacy that shaped generations of Azoreans. A mission rooted in memory and identity The association’s mission is to protect and celebrate the memories linked to the whaling tradition by recovering, conserving, and enhancing the Regional Whaling Heritage. This work is carried out through a multifaceted local development project supported by regional legislation and grounded in community participation. The enduring significance of the whaleboat The Azorean whaleboat occupies a central place in the social and cultural history of the islands. Its craftsmanship, symbolism, and stories are widely recognized as part of the region’s identity. Today, these boats hold not only historical value but also remarkable potential as a sports boat—an opportunity that can bring even greater visibility and appreciation to this unique maritime tradition.
ACBBA's mission is to contribute to recovering part of this memory associated with whaling culture, integrated into the fantastic movement of recovery, preservation and enhancement of the Regional Whaling Heritage, in accordance with the legislation, promoting a local development project with multiple facets.
Whaling boats play a prominent role in the social experience of the Azorean people, and their historical and cultural significance is undisputed. Yet the potential of these unique boats to be used for sport could gain them even more recognition than they already have.
The Whaling Boats
The development of the sporting aspect is, therefore, a key factor in the sustainability and preservation of this fantastic heritage, recovered thanks to the will, persistence, and tireless work of some, and to public investment by the Government of the Azores.
It is therefore necessary to reflect on the contemporary usefulness of the whaling boat, which requires action in the areas of policies and measures necessary for its preservation, as well as ways to make them true vehicles for bringing the islands, communities and people closer together.
This approach requires some work on the cultural, normative, tax and economic levels, ultimately aiming at social profitability and its valorization as a distinctive characteristic of Azorean Identity.
In this context, we took the initiative to establish an association, formally registered in the registry office (see attached document) on January 7, 2014, called ACBBA - Azorean Whaling Boat Class Association.
Our statutory objectives are to value the traditional whaling vessels in the Azores, promoting the sporting offer of rowing and sailing in whaling boats.
ACBBA Objectives
For example, here are some benefits to consider:
a) Representative capacity;
b) Institutional intermediation;
c) Promoting conditions for adults to practice sailing;
d) Insurance, certifications, and other benefits inherent to the sporting activity;
e) Promotion and enhancement of the sport;
f) Class Recognition;
g) Negotiation skills across multiple areas;
h) Technical training indexed to the federative structure;
i) Organization and communication;
j) Tourism promotion through contributing to the differentiation of the Azores as a tourist destination.
Corporate Bodies
Direction
President – Neuza Azevedo
Secretary – Sandra Brum
Treasurer – António Amaro
Fiscal Council
President – Armando Viveiros
Member – Manuela Macedo
Member – Ana Monteiro
Assembleia Geral
President – Catarina Cymbron
Secretary – Suse Costa
Member – Miguel Cravinho
Join us
Become part of our community.
Become a member of ACBBA and contribute to the preservation of Azorean whaling culture. Together, we value what unites us and build the future of this ancestral tradition.