Down The Rode – by Ty Mellott
BAY & BEYOND
MARCH
Chartered Events • USS Potomac Cruises, from Oakland’s Jack London Square. Even though the historical ship has started scheduled once again, you can charter the ship for your own private events. For more info on how you can charter this classic and historic presidential yacht, visit www.usspotomac.org and start planning your cruise into history.
23 – 26 • 40th Annual Palm Beach International Boat Show, this is one of the top 10 boat shows in the country featuring more than $1.4 Billion worth of boats, superyachts and accessories from every major marine manufacturer worldwide. For more info on times, cost and how to get tickets visit www.pbboatshow.com or call 954-463-6762.
APRIL
Chartered Events • USS Potomac Cruises, from Oakland’s Jack London Square. Even though the historical ship has started scheduled once again, you can charter the ship for your own private events. For more info on how you can charter this classic and historic presidential yacht, visit www.usspotomac.org and start planning your cruise into history.
11 – 12 • 7th Annual California Boating Congress, Hyatt Regency Sacramento. The “CBC” is an annual event where the marine industry and boating community come to Sacramento to advocate on issues affecting this important part of our state’s economy and culture. Please mark your calendar for April 12, 2023, for the 7th Annual California Boating Congress and plan to register early. There will be government and industry speakers in the morning and afternoon sessions with several key legislators who have interest in our issues are being set up now and will be held at the Hyatt Regency rather than at the State Legislature offices, which should help facilitate more effective interaction on marine industry and recreational boating issues that impact our industry. There will be a cocktail reception the evening before the event on April 11, 2023. Visit www.mra.org for complete information on the Marina Recreation Association or CBC 2023.
13 – 16 • 20th International Ocean Film Festival, Cowell Theater Fort Mason on the beautiful San Francisco waterfront. Come out and enjoy the films that celebrate the sea and films that increase awareness. Visit www.oceanfilmfest.org for more info on single program and full event film passes. Come out to celebrate and enjoy all things Ocean.
15 – 16 • Annual Svendsen’s Spring Fling, Hosted by Svendsen’s Marine, 2900 Main Street #1900, Alameda, CA. Sat 9 a.m. 5 p.m. – Sun 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. This year the show has more exhibitors, great food and informative sailing/boating seminars. This event is free and open to the public! Meet top sailing/boating brand representatives and visit the 20,000 sq ft Svendsen’s Marine store for the best deals of the year on your boating and sailing gear. Raffle giveaways all day long. Visit www.springflingboatshow.com for more information.
27 – 30 • Seattle Boats Afloat Spring Boat Show, presented by the Northwest Yacht Brokers Association the Boats Afloat Show is the destination to Explore, Dream, and Discover. Enjoy stunning city views from South Lake Union while you tour vessels of all brands and styles, experience the latest innovations in boating technology with industry professionals, and enjoy a full line-up of thoughtfully curated events like live music, delicious food, boat rides, and more. Visit www.boatsafloat.com for more info.
27 – 30 • Newport International Boat Show, The Newport Beach International Boat Show (NBIBS) is back to bring a new and reimagined vision to the yachting world. Incorporating live entertainment, immersive activations and beautiful yachts from top builders and brokerages, the event offers attendees a one-of-a-kind experience that captures the essence of Newport Beach’s elevated lifestyle. With both on-land and on-water areas to explore, the footprint will immerse your senses as you browse, shop and dine the trendy boutiques, sponsored lounges and beautiful restaurants in the area. From recreational watercrafts to large luxury yachts and everything in between we look forward to welcoming you this April to NBIBS 2023. Visit for more info.
30 – PICYA’s 106th Annual Opening Day on The Bay, Opening Day on the Bay is an annual celebration of the maritime community on the San Francisco Bay. From the blessing of the fleet in Racoon Straights to the parade of decorated boats, this is a great reason to get out on the Bay. Judges are on hand to dish out prizes for the décor and imagination of the colorful vessels as this year’s theme is “Broadway on the Bay.” Get your sail or powerboat ready but whether you participate or view from the banks, you are sure to enjoy this time honored and traditional spring event celebrating the official beginning to the San Francisco Bay boating season with fellow boating enthusiasts! Visit www.picya.org/ for all Pacific Inter-Club Yacht Association events including Opening Day on the Bay as more information is provided. We hope to see one of the largest turnouts in years.
MAY
Friday & Saturday Beginning May 20th • Sunset Cruises, Angel Island-Tiburon Ferry. View the Bay & the SF skyline. Wine, soda & a variety of snacks for purchase onboard. Fri – Sat evening cruises continue through mid-Oct. Adults and seniors: $30, Children 6-12: $15. For information regarding times of departure and to make reservations call 415-435-2131 or visit http://angelislandferry.com/bay-cruises/#b1
4 – 7 • Pacific Sail & Power Boat Show, Westpoint Harbor, Redwood City, CA. After a 3-year hiatus, the PSPBS makes its return to the Bay Area. Make plans for early May to visit the South Bay and view some of the newest Sail & Powerboats on display. Whether it be a yacht, trailerable boat, or all the gear associated with recreational boating, the PSPBS will have something for everyone. The 2023 show is the first edition of the partnership announced in 2021 between Sail America and the California Yacht Brokers Association who entered into a licensing agreement for the Pacific Sail and Power Boat show. Under that agreement, the CYBA has taken responsibility for the management of the show. Sail America members will continue to receive an exhibitor discount at the new show. Over the period of the agreement, the ownership of the show will eventually transfer to the CYBA. Over the next 3 months, with planning, preparation and hard work, Northern California will again be the home to PSPBS. Visit the website www.cyba.info or www.pacificboatshow.com or by calling the CYBA at (925) 588-8829.
6 – 7 • Sail GP Season 3 Grand Final – San Francisco, Tickets avail and plenty of prime Bay area locations to watch all the action as San Francisco plays host to the Grand Finals. Visit www.sailgp.com for more information or tickets.
6 – 7 • Annual Vallejo Race, Vallejo Yacht Club hosts the Great Vallejo Race, kicking off another Yacht Racing Association (YRA) season of racing on the Bay for 2023. For more info visit www.vallejoyachtclub.com or contact the Vallejo Yacht Club at 707-643-1254 or the YRA at 451-771-9500.
7 • Sacramento YC Opening Day Parade, nothing beats the excitement of a new boating season and the SYC does their part in helping share that excitement. Join the club for this opening day on the river event by calling 916-371-5058 for info on participation, overnight berthing for the event or even viewing.
14• Mother’s Day, Take Mom out for a boat ride. Can you think of any better way to spend Mom’s special Day? Cruise the Bay and remind her of how special she is! Enjoy the day and be safe on the water.
20 – 26 • National Safe Boating Week, The National Safe Boating Council continues to educate the boating community about wearing life jackets and the options that are available when it comes to comfortable and lightweight life jackets. Visit www.safeboatingcouncil.org for more info on this important week and how you as an individual or your marina can get involved.
DELTA
APRIL
Thursday – Saturday • Steak & Lobster Night at Orwood, Orwood Resort, 4451 Orwood Road, Brentwood, CA 94513. Come out and enjoy a 12-oz. New York steak or rib-eye and lobster, Brentwood corn, baked potato and roll for only $25.99. Beautiful Delta setting on the water and a great meal to boot. Call 925-634-2550 for more info.
1 • Discovery Bay Yacht Club Opening Day Parade, Discovery Bay Yacht Club invites you to their parade on April 1st. If you have a boat, assemble your crew and join them on this exciting opening day weekend. Visit dbyc.com for more information.
12 • Delta Chambers Mixer, 6-7:30 p.m. Brannan Island State Park. Come visit and view all the progress Eric Chiu has accomplished in his tasks of running one of the largest on-water state parks in the Delta. If you have questions on this event, how your business can host a mixer or to become a member of the Delta Chambers, visit www.californiadelta.com or call 916-777-4041.
15 • Stockton YC Opening Day, view from the banks of the Deep-Water Channel or bring your boat out and participate in this well-attended opening day parade. Opening Day 2023 will be happening on Saturday April 15th, 2023! This year’s theme is “Wild West.” After the parade the club will follow the theme with a Western Hoedown and dinner. Bring your boat and join the fun all weekend and let’s make this a fantastic weekend to kick off the 2023 boating season! Contact the Stockton Yacht Club at 209-946-9259 or visit www.stocktonyc.org if you have any questions. Or you can contact, Jill Stevenson at 916-847-8959 for more information.
22 • San Joaquin Yacht Club Opening Day Parade on the Delta, San Joaquin Yacht Club, Bethel Island, CA. All Floating Craft Welcome ~ no registration fee, Includes classics, small craft, personal watercraft & dinghies. This year’s theme is “Board Games.” The parade starts at 1200 hours at the Yacht Club docks located at 550 Riverview Road, Bethel Island. Bring your boat for the Blessing. There are cash prizes and awards for decorated boats with dinner and dancing after the parade. For more information or to enter your boat contact, Fleet Captain Sherry Hoctor at s_hocter@yahoo.com or 925-766-0690.
MAY
TBD • Taco Tuesday Returns to Windmill Cove, get ready for one of the most popular Taco Tuesdays in the Delta. Come out by Car or Boat to enjoy this season’s Grand Opener! Taco Tuesday every Tuesday throughout the summer and on into early fall. Enjoy. For more info on taco Tuesdays or other events at Windmill Cove call 209-938-9192.
4 – 7 • Pacific Sail & Power Boat Show, Westpoint Harbor, Redwood City, CA. After a 3-year hiatus, the PSPBS makes its return to the Bay Area. Make plans for early May to visit the South Bay and view some of the newest Sail & Powerboats on display. Whether it be a yacht, trailerable boat, or all the gear associated with recreational boating, the PSPBS will have something for everyone. The 2023 show is the first edition of the partnership announced in 2021 between Sail America and the California Yacht Brokers Association who entered into a licensing agreement for the Pacific Sail and Power Boat show. Under that agreement, the CYBA has taken responsibility for the management of the show. Sail America members will continue to receive an exhibitor discount at the new show. Over the period of the agreement, the ownership of the show will eventually transfer to the CYBA. Over the next 3 months, with planning, preparation and hard work, Northern California will again be the home to PSPBS. Visit the website www.cyba.info or www.pacificboatshow.com or by calling the CYBA at (925) 588-8829.
5 • Cinco de Mayo at Windmill Cove, come by car or boat for this well attended tradition. For info on this May 5th event or other events at Windmill Cove call 209-938-9192.
10 • Delta Chambers Mixer, 6-7:30 p.m. Rusty Porthole, Bethel Island. Come out to the Porthole and enjoy the hospitalities of Rob, Kim and their amazing staff as they welcome the CA Delta Chamber members. Come by car or boat to this popular Delta hangout to network with your fellow Delta businesses. If you have questions on this event, how your business can host a mixer or to become a member of the Delta Chambers, visit www.californiadelta.com or call 916-777-4041.
13 • Locke Asian Pacific Spring Festival, 11 a.m. – 5 p.m., 13916 Main St. Walnut Grove, CA. This is a gala event featuring lion dance, martial arts, cultural entertainment, arts & crafts, vendor booths, food, and raffle prizes. Come and visit the only surviving rural Chinese town in the U.S. Free admission and free parking, sponsored by the Locke Foundation www.locke-foundation.org or call 916-776-1684.
14 • Mother’s Day, Take Mom out for a boat ride. Can you think of any better way to spend Mom’s special Day? Cruise the Delta and remind her of how special she is! Enjoy the day and be safe on the water.
19 – 21 • Stockton Flavor Fest, Visit Stockton, with the support of the City of Stockton, is bringing back downtown Stockton’s largest family festival. Held downtown at the Weber Point Events Center, Flavor Fest is a celebration of the food, music, and cultures that make up the diverse communities in Stockton. Highlights of the festival include Regional cuisine, food trucks, local makers, and merchants highlighting the creative diversity and global food offerings available in the Stockton area. Three days of entertainment programming, including strolling cultural performances, singer-songwriters at the Craft Beverage Experience Tent and over 20 musical performances on the main stage. Free family entertainment, including a STEM focused family activity tent, free arts workshops, and live art demonstrations. Visit www.stocktonflavorfest.com for more information. If you are coming by boat, feel free to call the Stockton Downtown Marina at 209-462-4200 for special entrance passes to the festival.
20 – 26 • National Safe Boating Week, The National Safe Boating Council continues to educate the boating community about wearing life jackets and the options that are available when it comes to comfortable and lightweight life jackets. Visit www.safeboatingcouncil.org for more info on this important week and how you as an individual or your marina can get involved.
27 – 29 • Memorial Day Weekend Live Music at Windmill Cove, come by car or boat and enjoy the holiday weekend as live band perform. Bands schedules to be announced soon. For more info or info on other events at Windmill Cove call 209-938-9192.
JULY
4 • Annual Hilton Fireworks Celebration at Mandeville, posting this now as many call or write long prior to the event and wanted to pass on the information early this year. Word has been officially given! This year’s 4th of July Fireworks show will be held on Tuesday the 4th of July. Make your plans now to attend as the Patriots Jet Team will be performing a full air show once again over Delta waters. If you missed it, last year you will want to plan ahead and not miss it this year. Airshow start time TBD but the first firework to start shortly after sunset. Hope to see you all out there on the water.
ONGOING
Adventures at Sea, Imagine Life Aboard a 19th-Century Sailing Ship, Program presented at 2:15 p.m. daily. Hyde Street Pier, San Francisco. For information on this or any other program offered, call 415-561-7006.
Bay Model Tours, 2100 Bridgeway, Sausalito, CA. 415-332-3871. Hours Tues.-Sat. 9 a.m.-4 p.m.; closed Sun.-Mon. & holidays.
Delta Fishing Reports, weekly every Wed. at www.californiadelta.org
Red & White Fleet San Francisco Cruises, for info call 415-673-2900 or visit www.redandwhite.com
Safe Boating Courses, for information and closest place to attend a boating course please call the United States Power Squadron at 925-377-2628.
Sea Valor, A non-profit organization based upon the idea of using a sailboat, the Bay waters, and companionship to give those that may suffer from physical wounds or PTSD a chance to leave their struggles behind, if even just for the day. The goal that Eric Jones and his crew of Valor stive to achieve, is not just the one day but rather the foundation to further assist those in need to recover fully and return to a way of life prior to the individual’s stressful or traumatic event. Their ocean-themed programs and activities aim to help veterans, firefighters, health care workers, law enforcement, under-privileged youth, families of those affected by suicide and anyone else struggling with physical or emotional wounds. If you or anyone you know that might benefit from such a program, view www.seavalor.org for more information.
SS Jeremiah O’Brien WW II Liberty Ship, National Historic Landmark and Museum. Open daily 9 a.m.-4 p.m. at Pier 45, Fisherman’s Wharf. Fee is $8 adults, under six free with adult. Visit www.ssjeremiahobrien.org for cruise schedule, volunteer opportunities and overnight programs or call 415-544-0100.
USS Hornet Tours, Sea, Air and Space Museum, Alameda CA. The Ship is open for daily visits and offers several specialty tours including a 9 p.m.-6 a.m. overnighter. If you wish to visit and need more info regarding general admission, specialty tours or group events, www.uss-hornet.org
USS Pampanito, Open daily at Pier 45, Fisherman’s Wharf. Fee: Adults, $9; 6-12, $4; under six free with adults; family ticket $20. More info at 415-561-6662. Admission includes a self-guided tour.
USS Potomac History Cruise, enjoy a 2-hour narrated history cruise on S.F. Bay with knowledgeable docents. Complimentary coffee, tea and water will be available. Visit eventbrite.com or call 510-627-1215 for actual dates and reservations.
USS Potomac Year-Round Chartered Tours, Jack London Square, the museum dedicated to “Remembering Roosevelt and his Era” features FDR’s famed “Floating White House,” now a National Historic Landmark. Until further notice there is no more open seating or scheduled cruises. Events currently are on a charted basis only. Call 510-627-1215 for more information.
Vessel Safety Checks, for a courtesy examination of your vessel to verify the presence and condition of your safety equipment required by State and Federal regulations, please visit the site www.safetyseal.net or e-mail sumfun@juno.com for more information on having your vessel’s safety checked or to have representatives visit your club for group checks.
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DownTheRode@YachtsmanMagazine.com
The Earlier the BETTER!
