While other boating and yacht clubs were around in the late 1880s and early 1900s, only the Prince Edward Yacht Club weathered the storm. Created by a band of sailors around 1936, PEYC was officially incorporated in 1938. It continues to thrive with each new generation of sailors.

On Saturday, club members new and old took part in the annual sailpast, a traditionary sail about Picton Bay to mark the start of the season. Members ceremoniously sailed past the club’s commodore, Mike Bowland, luffing their jibs and lowering the Canadian flag. Crew members stood at attention while their skipper saluted the Commodore.

PEYC Commodore Mike Bowland (Jason Parks/Gazette Staff)

Commodore Bowland was honoured by upwards of two dozen ships and their crews on the first Saturday in June, which proved an ideal day for sailing.  Prior to embarking, the club executive was honoured in a procession led by piper Donald Greer. Members of the Royal Canadian Sea Cadet Corps 79 hoisted the colours before PEYC Chaplain and Arch Deacon Emeritus Charles Morris blessed the fleet with a number of Psalms, prayers and verses.

The club has always been a vibrant hub of activity. It first hosted the American Power Boat Racing Regatta in 1937.

 This honour prompted renovations of a decrepit electrical plant on the harbour so organizers could house the many sailors coming from all over the world for the regatta. These waters were where the first Gold Cup was awarded. The building has had many renovations over the years, but continues to operate as a clubhouse.

Membership is required to access the clubhouse and its grounds, but PEYC is always looking for new members, whether they are boaters or not. 

Social memberships are very popular among people who want the atmosphere and fellowship that a social club can offer but do not have a boat. Applications are available online or by contacting PEYC.

The club also organizes and staffs a Learn to Sail program for young people who want to learn to sail. It is a very popular program offered out of Waupoos Marina. Spots for this summer may still be available. Contact PEYC at [email protected].

Racing remains a large part of the social life at PEYC. 

The Tuesday night women’s racing program, in its second year, is thriving. Women with all degrees of experience are learning the basics of sailing, race rules, and team work. Wednesday night, more experienced skippers take to the water. Racing is competitive, but fun. Very little experience is required to be a crew member, so if racing is something you’re interested in, contact the club for more information on how you can get on a boat.

Members of the Royal Canadian Sea Cadets Corps 79 raise the colours at the annual sail past ceremony (Jason Parks/Gazette Staff)

(Jason Parks/Gazette Staff)

Upcoming events include races and regattas, a Hawaiian Luau and Pig Roast, Drag Shows, BBQs, dances, open mic nights, parties, and special dinners. A private bar is open seven days a week during the summer. Enjoy a drink overlooking the harbour.

For information please visit www.facebook.com/PrinceEdwardYachtClub