Starting in 2008 at the suggestion from the Argo Group for a fun, free, family community day during the annual Argo Gold Cup, the Family Festival of Sail (FFOS) continues to expand on showcasing boating and water activities available to Bermuda’s residents. The 2011 FFOS takes place on the final day of the Argo Gold Cup October 9, 2011 and will be held at Barr’s Bay Park and the adjacent Royal Bermuda Yacht Club starting at 10:00am and running until 4:00pm.

The 2011 event promises to be just as festive with sailboat and motor boats rides, the popular Boat Showcase, activities for all ages and wonderful displays from Bermuda’s boating, sailing and water sports associations and clubs. Fancy a ride in a J105 sailboat? Thanks to the RBYC members and friends, the FFOS will have at least three boats available for 30-minute trips in Hamilton Harbour. Skippers will talk more about sailing in Bermuda and about the prestigious Argo Gold Cup final taking place in the Harbour. Large sailboat rides not your family’s thing? That’s okay, there will be plenty of other motorized options and kids will be able to get on board a 420 or Optimist dinghy with one of the qualified RBYC sailing instructors. Since 2008, the Bermuda Sea Cadets have played a pivotal role in the Festival of Sail and there is no finer view or boating experience than being rowed through the harbour on one of their beautifully restored gigs. The RBYC will have their Bermuda Fitted Dinghy, Contest II,I on display and this will be a wonderful time to have a close-up look at an amazing example of traditional Bermuda boat-building.

There are plenty of onshore activities as well including displays from the RBYC youth sailing programme, Bermuda Rowing Association and the Waterwise school programme. The beautiful Spirit of Bermuda will be along side for tours and in the evening will be offering a specially priced ride to Dockyard just in time for dinner and a ferry ride home. The festive atmosphere is resplendent with face painters, bouncy-castle, entertainment and food stalls.

Feel the need for a bit more speed? Then you need to head over to the RBYC-side of the event to check out all the boats on display for the Boat Show. There are sailboats and motor boats of all sizes along with a beautiful commercial fishing vessel and catamaran. Information about all the boats will be available and owners will happily answer questions. The RBYC invites all visitors the Festival to come explore the Club and dine on the patio.

All this activity takes place against the backdrop of the wonderful Argo Gold Cup match racing regatta.  Sailing and boating activities are an important part of Bermuda’s heritage and the Family Festival of Sail, along with the Argo Group and our sponsors, are excited to showcase the wonderful and varied options available for families to go and enjoy time on Bermuda’s waters.