Yacht Club launches boating season with clinic, sunset cruise

As the Canyon Lake Yacht Club preps for its annual Blessing of the Boats April 6, the club marked the beginning of the boating season with a day filled with educational and leisure activities Saturday.

The day kicked off with a clinic titled “Getting Your Boat Ready for the Water,” followed by a picturesque Sunset Cruise on Canyon Lake, signaling the start of spring on the water.

Commodore Rob Mora led the day‘s events, which started at Holiday Harbor. The clinic featured advice from experienced boat mechanics and Marine Patrol Captain Dave Martilla, focusing on preparing boats for the upcoming boat season. Club members received tips on maintenance and safety to ensure a smooth and enjoyable boating experience.

Following the informative morning session, the club hosted its first cruise of the year. The flotilla, although not officially counted due to the spread of participating boats, included numerous club members who enjoyed a slow lap around the Main Lake.

The cruise took in scenic views of Big Bass Cove, Treasure Island, Catfish Cove, and Happy Camp against the backdrop of snow-capped mountains to the north.

One of the participating boats takes off on the Canyon Lake Yacht Club’s first Sunset Cruise of the year Saturday. The club held a clinic earlier in the day and capped it off with a cruise around the lake. Photo provided by Rob Mora

The serene setting provided by the last light of the day made for a memorable start to the club‘s activities this year.

“We’re grateful to everyone who came out and especially to the experts who offered great guidance for all of us,” Rob said. “Our mission as a club is for everyone to have a safe and fun time on the water, and it begins with making sure your vessel is ready for the season.”

The Blessing of the Boats, the Opening Day event for the boating season, is a tradition that marks the official start of spring boating activities in the community. The ceremony is scheduled for April 6 at 2:00 p.m., and will feature a flag ceremony, the national anthem, opening remarks, and the traditional blessing of the boats.

The event, a cornerstone in yachting communities, symbolizes the kickoff of the boating season with a ceremonial cannon blast. Participants are encouraged to decorate their boats with American flags to partake in the festivities and parade around the lake.

The Opening Day ceremony will welcome notable guests, including Mayor Dale Welty, Pastor Thor Ramsey, members of the Shoreline Yacht Club, National Anthem soloist Aprile DeAnne McKinnon, City Council members, Canyon Lake POA board members, and some POA staff.

The Canyon Lake Yacht Club is proud to carry on this tradition, inviting all boaters and community members to join in the celebration and witness the blessing of the fleet, ensuring a safe and enjoyable boating season for all, Rob said.