The Official Magazine of the Bluewater Cruising Association

News

Going Offshore in 2026? Don’t Forget to Apply for Your Leaver Package!

Jennifer Handley

Not only are Vancouver Fleet members busy preparing themselves and their boats for offshore, but a small committee within that group is researching, sourcing and assembling “leaver” packages for BCA members who plan to cast off their lines in 2026. This package is a farewell presentation from BCA given to all members in good standing […]

Invitation to Royal Victoria Yacht Club Open House

The Royal Victoria Yacht Club (RVYC) is hosting a free Open House Expo between 1600-1800h on April 10, 2026 and you are invited! As you may know, RVYC is a member-only club, but for one day only, the Club is transforming itself into a BIG welcome fair for curious potential members.  Round up your friends […]

Vancouver Fleet – Open CPN Course

Trina Holt

The introductory OpenCPN course offered via Zoom by Charlie Aram and the Vancouver Fleet on March 4 went swimmingly. Charlie’s dedication to learning the program and its many nuances—along with the considerable effort he put into creating a clear and comprehensive presentation—was appreciated by everyone in attendance. Participants learned how OpenCPN allows cruisers to view […]

Vancouver Fleet – February 2026

Marilyn Sanford

Fleet Meeting James McDonald, Director of Sales with Navis Marine Insurance Brokers attended Vancouver’s Fleet meeting, February 25. Attendance was good with 19 people attending, 9 online and 10 in person. James presented an overview of the boat insurance market in 2026 including local and offshore and also discussed medical insurance. Many attendees were appreciative […]

Bluewater Cruising Association Awards 2025

David Mitchell

In my new role as Past Commodore, I have the pleasure of organizing and presenting awards to our deserving members. This is a task that I have very much enjoyed. I learned more about the Bluewater Cruising Association’s history through familiarizing myself with the past recipients and some of our new awardees. However, most importantly, […]

Vancouver Island Fleet – February 2026

Campbell Good and Cathy Norrie, VI Fleet Coordinators

This month’s Vancouver Island Fleet meeting was at the home of Werner and Sarah, Camdeboo, with 13 members attending. As we have found with other meetings, the social aspect is really important and appreciated, but we also covered more technical topics such as: Issues with Victron Super Cycle batteries Anchor swivels Fire systems Fire at […]

BCA Members Receive Environmental Award from Ocean Cruising Club

Environmentally and Socially Responsible Cruising Working Group

Every now and then we learn about someone who is making a difference while at the same time pursuing a life changing adventure.  Meet Freeranger’s crew: Duncan Copeland and Larissa Clark, along with their two children, Eden and Skye.  Aboard Freeranger, you’ll find both adventure and citizen science. Since launching in 2023, the family has […]

Vancouver Fleet and Weather – January 2026

Marilyn Sanford

Fleet Meeting The January Vancouver Fleet meeting brought together eight current and former BCA members who have been—or are currently—offshore. The group was enthusiastic, generous with their insights, and represented a wide range of offshore cruising experience. Moderated by Dugg Steary, the meeting featured a lively panel discussion on key takeaways for preparing to go […]

CBCYC Requests Boaters Complete Islands Trust Survey

Barb Peck

The Council of BC Yacht Clubs (CBCYC) is requesting that all boaters fill out the Islands Trust Draft Policy Statement Survey.  From Islands Trust: The Policy Statement is Islands Trust’s vision for the preservation and protection of the Islands Trust Area and its unique amenities and environment. It aspires to reflect the values and interests […]

In Memoriam: Bruce Warren

It is with sadness that BCA learned of the passing of Bruce Warren who died peacefully January 7th surrounded by family after a valiant battle with cancer. Bruce joined the BCA Calgary Chapter in 2015.  In 2022 he received an offshore cruising award for his  single-handed passage to/from Hawaii and was also the recipient of […]