The Canyon Lake Yacht Club is once again set to host the annual Opening Day of Boating Season and Blessing of the Boats, set to take place on Saturday, May 2, from 12 to 3 p.m. This cherished tradition marks the official start of boating season in Canyon Lake.
All boaters are invited to participate. Spectators are welcome to witness the ceremony from Holiday Harbor Park, ensuring everyone can share in the excitement of this community event.
Participating boats will begin assembling at 12 p.m. on the main lake near the Holiday Harbor Park docks, with the ceremony scheduled to start at 1 p.m., the cannon blast at 1:45, and the blessing of the boats at 2 p.m.
After the short ceremony, boats will form a single line and pass the dock where Pastor Thor Ramsey will extend a blessing to each watercraft and crew for a safe and enjoyable boating season. The Yacht Club flagship boat will then lead the participating boats on a slow parade around the main lake to conclude the event.
In keeping with the tradition of opening day and fleet blessing events, boaters are encouraged to adorn their vessels with a patriotic theme.
Yacht Club Commodore Rob Mora will preside over the event, joined by members of the Yacht Club, Canyon Lake City Council, POA Board of Directors, Canyon Lake Chamber of Commerce, and Southern California Yachting Association. A color guard from local Boy Scout Troop 2011 will present the flag, and vocalist Larry Garland will sing the national anthem. The club will also recognize Logan Stewart for his achievement as an Eagle Scout.
The Shoreline Yacht Club of Long Beach will be in attendance to blast a cannon, maintaining a tradition that began when cannon blasts were used to crack ice on spring harbors so that boats could navigate after the event.
The Blessing of the Boats is a century-old tradition. This annual festival was an important part of boating life as captains, crews, and families sought divine favor for bountiful catches and safety for working boats and the men who served on them. Today, annual blessing events are held by most yacht clubs and boating fleets around the world.
Formed in 1990, the Yacht Club membership is comprised of residents of all ages and all interests. Boat ownership is not required to be a member. The Canyon Lake Yacht Club is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization. For more information, visit www.canyonlakeyachtclub.org.
