The Canyon Lake Yacht Club is once again hosting Canyon Lake’s Opening Day of Boating Season and Blessing of the Boats, set to take place on Saturday, April 26. This ceremony signals 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.
Boaters will begin assembling at 1:30 p.m. on the main lake near the Holiday Harbor Park docks, with the ceremony starting at 2 p.m.
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, and a color guard from local Boy Scout Troop 2011, which will present the flag for the singing of the national anthem.
The Shoreline Yacht Club of Long Beach will be in attendance to blast their 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.
After the short ceremony, boats will form a single-line parade following the Yacht Club’s lead boat. The flotilla will then 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 ribbons, flags, and flowers. Yacht Club boats will display club burgees and flags.
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.
