Social life in boating

The theme for this year’s Open Day at Gulf Harbour Yacht Club on October 28 was ‘put more social life into your boating’.

Commodore John Butcher says boating is not just about yacht races. “Families often tend to get left out of boating experiences because it’s ‘Dad’s thing’, so, as the club enters its 30th year, it is looking at activities to encourage more family participation,” he says.

Activities include marine education courses, members’ evenings for discussions and presentations, quiz nights and dine and dance nights.

“If you don’t have a boat and want to experience racing on a yacht it’s not a problem as club members are keen to expose both young and old to the joys of sailing,” John says.

Also ideal for families is the summer cruising race series, which finishes in a bay suitable for a barbecue (pictured).

While sailing yachts have in the past formed the mainstay of the club’s activities, the club is now looking to encourage launch owners to participate in Navigation Rallies, ending up in the same bay as the cruising racers for family fun on the beach.