Independence Celebrations
and Goombay Festivals
July is the month that Americans share independence celebrations with the Bahamas. July 10 is Independence Day over here and celebrated nationwide with church and family-oriented festivities. Except for bigger celebrations in Nassau, these celebrations generally take the form of community homecomings, picnics, fireworks displays and fish frys. Of course, throughout the Bahamas during the summer season the Junkanoo celebration called the “Goombay Summer Festival” will continue its cultural experience featuring live native music, food, dance, and arts and crafts exhibits.
Bahamas Tourism has designed a “Boating Fling” series this summer for those of you who may wish to come across, but aren’t keen to do it alone or just want to share the crossing with similar folks and boats and an experienced guide. These “Flings” are limited to 30 boats and are staggered through the season with destinations throughout the Bahamas. All Fling flotillas depart from the Bahia Mar marina in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida. ...

Regatta Time
In Abaco
The first week of July signals the 32nd Regatta Time in Abaco. The parties begin on July 1, with the annual “Stranded Naked Party” on Fiddle Cay just north of Green Turtle Cay. This party, held by swimwear manufacturers, is always a lot of fun and brings out revelers for the beach picnic and party music. This year regatta registration will be held at the Fiddle Cay Party. The racing (and party) schedule is available online at rtia.net. ...

Navigation Notes
for Abaco
Please take special care when in the vicinity of Bakers Bay (see Southern Boating April 2007) on the north end of Guana Cay as ongoing construction extending into the bay itself will require your attention. In addition, the derelict oil tanker that has been aground on the Elbow Cay Reef since October 2005 was scheduled to be removed in May or June, so exercise caution here. ...

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