Marilyn and Larry Johnston, who recently sold Loretta May, a sistership to Nellie, invited us to attend their yacht club's Sailpast. So, what is a Sailpast?
Sailpast tradition began at the first Yacht Club that was formed at Cowes in England nearly 200 years ago. The membership at Cowes was primarily aristocratic and many were familiar with naval practice and tradition. Cowes Yacht Club subsequently changed its name to the Royal Yacht Squadron and certain social graces were added to the traditional naval practices.
The actual "review of the fleet" is steeped in more than 600 years of Royal Navy tradition and history and was introduced in Yacht clubs as a continuation of the naval habit of having Admirals (and/or Royalty) review the fleet on special occasions.
Protocol demanded that a flagship be anchored with the Admiral and staff on the quarterdeck to receive and return the salute. Vessels sailed past, dipping their colours in salute, and with their captain also saluting with the ship's company standing at attention. The Vice Admiral would lead the fleet passing in review and the final vessel in the line would carry the Rear Admiral. --
www.sailbroadreach.ca
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| Our Hosts Marilyn and Larry Johnston Aboard Their Tug Loretta May 37VT27 |
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| We Dip the Colors and are Saluted by Commodore Andrew McGregor and Family |
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| Commodore McGregor (r) and Nellie (in the Background) |
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| Loretta May Decorates Our Table Centerpiece |
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| Trident Yacht Club, Gananoque, Ontario |
Nellie stayed at the dock but Bicki and I were crew members aboard the Johnston's Nordic Tug. TYC's Sailpast was a fun, full day event capped by a dinner celebration in the Clubhouse. Many thanks to the Johnston's and to all the friendly folks we met at TYC. DBH
