Return of the Sailing Canoe

The tradition was almost forgotten in Itacaré. But all that was needed was a little push, or a good breeze, and they have returned to add color to the Rio de Contas. With the blessing of the sea goddess Yemanjá, the winds have blown strong and Txai's Sailing Canoe Regattas have been crowned with success. The first, in 2002, counted on the presence of the famous Brazilian sailor, Amyr Klink. At the second, in 2003, 42 boats took part and actress Camila Pitanga was Queen of the Regatta, chosen by the sailors themselves. Since then, the canoes haven’t ceased parading their ever more dazzling sails on the waters of Itacaré, and many of the sailors have been able to bolster their earnings with canoe trips for tourists.