Founded in 1997, the Azorean Maritime Heritage Society (AMHS) promotes Azorean culture and our shared whaling heritage by raising awareness and pride within New England’s Azorean-American community.

AMHS maintains three authentic Azorean whaleboats — Pico, Faial, and Bela Vista — which were built in the post-whaling era using traditional techniques. They are used for cultural, historical, and recreational events. Currently, there are only 63 Azorean whaleboats in the world; these are the only three in the United States.

When you join AMHS, you can have the unique opportunity to sail and row these beautiful whaleboats with others during our regular boating schedule in New Bedford during the summer months.