It has been a while!

Now that we have our AGM behind us, we have celebrated the holidays, hopefully have managed to visit with our family and friends, and have moved into 2022, it is time to reflect.

The Bluewater Cruising Association’s methods of supporting our members in meeting, learning, and preparing for offshore adventures has continued to morph, providing excellent opportunities to those who love to sail. I am so very proud of how our organization consistently conquers the big waves.

This past year has been extremely challenging for many of us; the BCA has not been exempt from those trials. We had another year with COVID-19 altering our normal procedures and forcing us to look outside the box. As usual, BCA’s amazing team of volunteers has succeeded. We have been able to safely conduct in-person training events. Vancouver and Calgary delivered astonishing rendezvous. In fine tradition, BURPs have been outstanding. Our members have contributed many interesting articles to Currents. The association has maintained a solid presence in the offshore sailing community. Some of our members have realized their dreams and have ventured to far-away lands via the best transportation imaginable: a sailboat.

For all of your efforts, loyalty, and just staying true to the course, I thank all of the Chapter Watches, Board of Directors (BOD), watchkeepers reporting to the BOD, and most of all, the BCA members. You have proven to be the most amazing shipmates possible.

What does 2022 look like for the Bluewater Cruising Association? Well – without a doubt, challenges remain. We have not made it through the troubled waters of COVID-19. However, I can feel the better weather approaching and my optimism is growing. Our crew of volunteers continues to adjust course when needed. As our federal and provincial health orders evolve, so will BCA. Although we have had to slow down, off on the horizon I can see the return of face-to-face happenings. As we move through 2022, BCA will strive to meet the needs of our members, while ensuring the safety of all. My ask of you is to remain kind and remember we are all family.

I thank all of you who continue to serve. To those who are new to a watch, report, or the board, I welcome and thank you. I highly encourage all of our members to visit the BCA website where our BOD, watchkeepers, and reports are listed. Take note of who they are and extend your gratitude for their hard work.

To all, I look forward to working, charting new courses, and sailing through the BCA 2022. May we soon let go lines, sail vessels, and celebrate our rendezvous!

Yours aye,

David Mitchell
Commodore
Bluewater Cruising Association