The 9^th Annual Azorean Whaleboat Regatta returns to Charles River, on Sunday, June 15. Hosted by the Boston Portuguese Festival and the Azorean Maritime Society, the regatta celebrates a common experience of New Englanders and Azoreans - the whaling industry in the 19th century. 

 Starting at 12 p.m. at the MIT Pierce Boathouse, in Cambridge, this is one of the most celebrated events of the Boston Portuguese Festival. The Regatta is open to public that can enjoy the race among family and friends, or compete in these unique whaleboats owned by the Azorean Maritime Society. There will be also a whaleboat sailing show, tours on the boats, an award ceremony and the opportunity to listen some rich oral history behind whaling.

Boston Portuguese Festival highlights the nation’s culture and heritage not only to the Luso-American community, but also to the general community. The Festival is an opportunity for people to learn more about the Azores - nine islands created by volcanic activity overs millions of years, which created a stunning and dramatic environment.

The Azores are the closest point in Europe to North America and SATA Airlines, one of the official sponsors, has direct flights from Boston to the islands. SATA Airlines has connected New England with the Azores and mainland Portugal for more than 30 years.

The National Geographic Center for Sustainable Destinations recently named the Azores islands as the world’s second most appealing islands destination in its fourth annual Destination Scorecard survey. A panel of 522 experts reviewed conditions on 111 islands and archipelagos. The Azores received the title of “Authentic, unspoiled, and likely to remain so. For more information about booking flights or about SATA visithttp://www.sata.pt or call 800-762-9995.