Boatbuilder, author, seafarer Bruce Halabisky will explore the rich heritage of the Azorean whaleboat during a Sailors’ Series talk at the New Bedford Whaling Museum on October 17. Halabisky’s talk, “Azorean Whaleboat Design and Regatta,” will range from design through restoration, to the vessel’s emergence as a modern international racing class. The Sailors’ Series lectures present a wide variety of experiences and adventures by individuals with lifelong commitments to sailing, boats, and the sea. A reception begins at 6:00 pm, and the presentation starts at 6:30 pm on Thurs., 10/17. Tickets are $10 for Whaling Museum members and $15 for non-members, at www.whaling museum.org or by calling 508-997-0046. Advance ticket purchase is strongly recommended. The Whaling Museum is located at 18 Johnny Cake Hill in New Bedford, Mass.
In the remote North Atlantic, the whaleboats of the Azores evolved over a hundred years to become some of the most beautiful and efficient working vessels in the world. With a shocking amount of sail area and a needle-like bow, they are the product of intense competition and a demanding environment, realized through the skill of a few Portuguese boatbuilders.
There are only 63 authentic Azorean whaleboats in the world, and three of them are located in New Bedford under the maintenance of the Azorean Maritime Heritage Society, which presents the International Whaleboat Regatta every two years. The regatta attracts U.S. and international tourists and wooden boat enthusiasts as well as civic leaders and dignitaries from the U.S., Azores, and mainland Portugal.
The Sailors’ Series is supported by Ruth and Hope Atkinson, and supported in part by The Samuel D. Rusitzky Lecture Fund. Additional support comes from Babbitt Steam Specialty, Burr Brothers Boats, and Luzo Auto Center.
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