National Family Island Regatta

29/08/2026

The National Family Island Regatta Committee would like to express its deepest condolences to the Kemp family and the entire Black Point community on the passing of Mr. Efford Kemp.

A staple of sloop sailing races for the last several decades, Mr. Kemp was quite often the oldest competing skipper and always a calm and peaceful voice in very often chaotic situations.

Mr. Efford Kemp is a two time National Champion in the C class, winning the National Family Island Regatta in 2008 and 2025 in Legal Weapon and H2O.
We will greatly miss his presence at the tiller of H2O, may his legacy live on and inspire the next generation of Black Point sailors.

Thank you to Jan Pehrson for capturing this iconic image of him at his last National Family Island Regatta in 2026.

15/08/2026

Our hearts are heavy as we remember the full life of Dr. Mike Coppe and everything he meant to this committee and our beloved sport of Sloop Sailing. Mike has been an invaluable addition to the National Family Island Regatta committee through the decades, ofter serving on the race committee and protest committee. Anywhere he was needed he would answer the call and serve with the utmost professionalism and respect. We want to extend our sincere condolences to his lovely wife Jen Dames Coppe, thank you for lending us Mike every year. We will always treasure the memories made together. Sail on Dr. Coppe, Sail on.

03/07/2026

In our recent Quarter in Review, we honoured Commodore Dallas Knowles ⛵
After leading the National Family Island Regatta Committee as Chairman and Commodore from 2024 to 2026, Dallas stepped down, closing a remarkable chapter for one of The Bahamas' most treasured traditions. As the regatta's premier presenting sponsor, Friends of Exuma is deeply grateful for his leadership and vision. Dallas also leads the Exuma Sailing Club, and we can't wait to keep championing Exuma's young sailors alongside him!

Read the full story in our Quarter in Review: https://exumafriends.org/news/a-strong-start-to-2026-momentum-in-action-pg3j4

27/04/2026

Today we recognize and honor the incredible service of Dallas Knowles as he officially announces his retirement as Chairman & Commodore of the National Family Island Regatta Committee.

Serving from 2024 to 2026, Commodore Knowles has been a driving force behind the growth, organization, and success of the Regatta—preserving a rich Bahamian tradition while elevating it to new heights both locally and internationally. His leadership, passion, and unwavering commitment to sloop sailing and our culture have left a lasting legacy that will not be forgotten.

On behalf of the entire Regatta community, sailors, supporters, and spectators near and far—thank you for your years of dedicated service, guidance, and vision.

Fair winds and following seas, Commodore. ⛵🇧🇸

26/04/2026

7️⃣0️⃣ was great! See you next year and make sure you plan accordingly‼️

26/04/2026

Amazing photos from the Awards & Closing Ceremony of the 70th Annual National Family Island Regatta

26/04/2026

Official Results for all Classes | 70th Annual National Family Island Regatta

26/04/2026

26/04/2026

25/04/2026

UPDATE: Final A Class Series Race at 5pm