You don’t have to own a boat to enjoy membership in the Gibsons Yacht Club (GYC).
“We now have our own club sailboat,” says Hugh Willson, the club’s commodore. “It’s a 28-foot Grampian and it’s available for use by GYC members who choose to participate. It’s a great deal.”
Use of the boat is a bargain for interested or would-be sailors.
“Our dues are low, fellowship is important and our members have a blast doing things that appeal to them,” says Willson.
“The common interest is recreational marine activity: anything from working on boats, going on long or short cruises or overnight trips, and more.
“We have a wide range of social events, so there’s something for everyone, whether you are single, a couple or a family. We’re not snobbish!”
GYC enjoys a close affiliation with the Power Squadron, so there are courses and training available for anyone who wants or needs it, and the price is reasonable.
Willson joined the club a few years ago, knowing very little about boats or sailing. He found that members are generous with help and technical advice and mentor novice boaters. Now he’s a keen boater and thanks club members for teaching and mentoring him.
The club’s cruise program includes a gentlemen’s cruise to the Gulf Islands in April, a spring cruise to a destination like Desolation Sound and the Broughtons, a fall cruise, an overnighter to Bowen Island on Remembrance Day and the famous (or infamous) Tour de Goose men’s cycling trip.
The social program includes regular gatherings for coffee, walking, and a book club. Special events include pub nights, St. Patrick’s Day celebration, a rollicking Pig Roast, the Sail Past, a send-off party for the spring cruise, a Canada Day event, armchair travel or quiz nights and a Christmas dinner/dance.
If you’d like to know more, or meet some members, GYC is hosting a chili fest on Saturday, Jan. 28 at Harmony Hall in Gibsons, starting at 6 p.m. Please register for the event, as the club wants to have enough food on hand for everyone. To do so, contact the club at [email protected] or call Darlene Finch at 604-886-3711. The club’s website is www.gibsonsyachtclub.com
