Yacht Club teaches teens boat skills

The Canyon Lake Yacht Club unveiled its latest innovative program at the Holiday Harbor Guest Docks Saturday.

More than two dozen participants gathered at the Holiday Harbor Guest Docks to kick off the “Learn How to Drive a Boat” clinic. They were warmly welcomed by Commodore Ron Wilbur and the day‘s instructors.

The clinic featured six experienced captains/instructors: Vice Commodore Rob Mora, Brian Oltman, Dave Durston, Johnny Pineda, Josh Lightman and Ron Dimpflmaier.

Participants were given the opportunity to choose from five different types of boats: pontoon, inboard deck boat, wake boat, high-performance speed boat, and inboard jet boat.

Each participant received a packet that included an introduction to boating for beginners, a boating safety sheet, as well as startup and operation checklists for both inboard and outboard engines.

After a comprehensive briefing on the basics by Rob and Brian, the participants boarded their selected boat type. They were then given an orientation and instructions from their assigned boat captain.

Following the orientation, it was time to start up the boats and head out onto the lake for some hands-on experience.

Captains and participants returned to the dock with wide smiles, having enjoyed the thrill of driving their boats and mastering maneuvers such as idle, drive and reverse. A few lucky students even had the opportunity to navigate through the causeway to the East Channel.

This event also marked the inauguration of the Yacht Club‘s Auxiliary Fleet, catering exclusively to individuals aged 11 to 18. The Auxiliary Fleet will host various on-water events, boating demonstrations, and community participation and service activities.

For more information on joining the Canyon Lake Yacht Club or participating in their events contact Ron at commodore@canyonlakeyachtclub.com.