Commodore Danny Strachan addressed the audience at the Skippers’ Party at the Community Centre in George Town, Exuma on Wednesday, April 27th.

EXUMA, The Bahamas – Regatta fever is in the air in picturesque Elizabeth Harbour, the centre of attention as sailors compete in the National Family Island Regatta in George Town.

Over 70 native sloops are competing in Classes A, B, C, D and E and Cup Races in the 63rd annual regatta taking place from April 26th to 30th.

Residents and visitors have taken their vantage point from anchored yachts and boats in the harbor or any available site under a stall or anywhere along the shoreline just to get a glimpse of the sailors as they skipper their boats in intense competition.

A vendor prepares a mouthwatering dish of conch salad at the Regatta Site in George Town, Exuma.

Some 63 years later the races remain the centre of attention, however the shoreline is bustling with activity. Under scorching temperatures and balmy breezes, visitors and Bahamians patronize the local vendors whose wares include native dishes, drinks, straw work, and art on display at stalls erected along the Regatta site.  Some of the activities for 2016:

April 28th – Fashion Show

April 29th Junior Junkanoo, Cultural Show and Concert

April 30th – Cultural Competition, displays by Exuma Community Youth Marching Band and the Royal Bahamas Police Force Band.

The closing ceremony also takes place on April 30th in the Administration Complex and features a concert with national recording artists performing at the Regatta Site.

The photo shows exhibits at the Yuma Arts Opening, one of the activities for the 2016 National Family Island Regatta.

One of the many booths is pictured at the Regatta Site in George Town, Exuma

The Hon. Alfred Gray, Minister of Agriculture and Marine Resources greets guests at the Skippers Party at the Community Centre on Wednesday, April 27th. It is one of the many activities at 2016 National Family Island Regatta in George Town, Exuma.