“Make a Date on the Strait” Benicia Yacht Club Opening Day 2023
Photos by Luke George Photography
“My soul is full of longing for the secret of the sea. And the heart of the great ocean sends a thrilling pulse through me.” -Henry Wadsworth Longfellow
Once again the popular and beloved Benicia Yacht Club will celebrate Opening Day on Saturday, May 20th from 10:00 am until 10:00 pm. The Club promises more than twelve hours of music, water activities, vendor booths, and food and drink as well. Two years ago, Opening Day was canceled due to the pandemic, and last year, BYC outdid itself in providing, “one of the best parties of the year,” according to Dena Stults, Commodore. This is a great opportunity to explore all the amenities the club has to offer, as the usually private facilities are open to the public all day. For a brief history on BYC and Opening Day, please see our 2022 article on the topic.
BYC Opening Day
According to Ms. Stultz, a full day is planned as follows:
10:00am: Vendor booths and kids’ activities open for business. The Benicia Fire Department will have equipment on display as well.
11:30am: Welcome by BYC Vice Commodore Brian West, Flag Raising Ceremony &
National Anthem, Guest speaker: Interim City Manager Mario Guiliani
12:00pm: BYC restaurant open for lunch
1:30pm: Blessing of the Fleet, decorated boat parade
(Prizes for first, second and third place decorated boat)
2:00pm: BYC Closes for lunch; live music on the back deck featuring Uncommon Wealth
5:00pm: BYC restaurant open for dinner, vendor booths closing
7:00pm: BYC restaurant closes, live music upstairs in the Norton Lounge featuring dancing with The Fabulous Cruisetones
10:00pm: Opening Day Festivities conclude
Additionally, the Outrigger Club and Youth Sailing group will be present and will offer demonstrations and information. A supervised kids’ play area will have enjoyable activities for the younger attendees. The Club’s Ship Store will be open for shoppers to purchase BYC t-shirts, sweatshirts, hats, napkins, burgees, and other assorted gear.
Yacht club members will be available to answer questions about the club regarding membership, youth sailing program, the cruising program, volunteer opportunities, and entertainment activities. Membership is open to both boaters and non-boaters of good character. Commodore Stultz stresses that Benicia Yacht Club is a great way to meet new people and have fun. Trivia Night, Karaoke Night, Talent Night and other seasonal celebrations round out the monthly events. Benicia Yacht Club functions throughout the year, and its facilities are open seven days per week. What more could one ask for?
BYC – 400 East 2nd Street, Benicia, CA 94510 – 707.746.0739 for more information
