Great American Raft-up - what a great idea

by Des Ryan on 30 Jul 2010 Yacht Clubs around the world are always trying to think up great events and excursions for their cruising sailors, but the idea of the South Shore Yacht Club at Newport Beach in southern California to hold a 'Great American Raft-up' every mid-summer is a beauty.

The Club, which calls itself the 'Friendliest Yacht Club in the world' holds the event each year to introduce the cruising lifestyle to people of all ages. It is becoming a major event for Southern California Boaters.

This year it's all happening on July 31, and features a live band on one of the boats, which raft up in the Lido Anchorage in the middle of Newport Harbour.

This year they are also introducing a 'Taste of South Shore' with different foods to sample on member's boats. The event is open to our members, their guests, potential members, and anyone interested in checking out the South Shore Yacht Club,

As well as the food and the great blues music, there'll be lots of activities such as Hot Tubs in the water, dinghy or kayak races and dancing on the decks. The day activities will last from 11.30am until 7.30pm - that's unless you stay overnight.

For the boats staying over-night, the next morning they will head out to Newport’s back bay for a Kayak adventure.

Individuals are welcome as well as boats, and rides out to the raft-up are organised by 'Shoreboats'.

Not everyone can go long range cruising, give up their job and their security and head for the horizon, but the fun of life on the water can be enjoyed by all when there are such innovative ideas coming from sailing clubs.

For more information about the 'Great American Raft-up', click http://southshoreyc.org/social!HERE.