Winter Sailing, Warm Water, and Big Plans Ahead

We may be in the dead of winter, but that just means you’ve got to travel a little farther to find warm water to sail on.

Later this month, three MC sailors—Mark Lewis, Mike Reisinger, and myself—are heading to Eustis, Florida to compete in the Trainwreck Regatta. With over 70 boats expected, it promises to be an outstanding event and a great opportunity to represent IBYC on a national stage.

While we’re there, we’ll also be bringing back four new boats for the Remote Control Sailing Club, helping us continue to build and strengthen this exciting new fleet at IBYC.

**Available here:**
https://theclubspot.com/shop/camp/cnzBDpRLrd

Planning Season Is in Full Swing

There’s a tremendous amount of waterfront planning happening right now, and this is the perfect time to register for summer programs and upcoming events. Here are a few highlights already on the calendar.

April 11 – America’s Cup Show at IBYC

IBYC welcomes the America’s Cup Show with Tucker Thompson

Get ready for the thrill of the America’s Cup—live at IBYC!

The U.S. Yacht Club Tour, hosted by America’s Cup commentator Tucker Thompson, is the nation’s largest and most dynamic yacht club speaking series. This one-hour multimedia presentation brings the excitement of the America’s Cup straight to our club, featuring stunning race footage, insider stories, and a look at what’s ahead for AC38.

More information coming soon!

Junior Sailing Camp 2026 – Registration Is Open

Now is the time to secure your spot for summer.

· Register before February 20 and get a free camp T-shirt using code Tshirt26

· Member discounts available

· $475 for a full-day, two-week session

· Half-day sessions required for first-time sailors age 9 and under

· Consider the Season Pass: all three sessions plus Race Camp (8 weeks on the water) for $1,400

Register through the Sailing tab on the IBYC website or go directly to ibycsailing.com

Adult Learn to Sail – Spring Session

This program was a tremendous success last year, and interest is already strong.

· Nearly half the spots filled in the first week of registration

· Adults 18 and over

· No experience necessary

· A fun, supportive, on-the-water introduction to sailing

Register now through the Sailing tab on the IBYC website or at bycsailing.com

US Sailing Level 1 Instructor Course – June 5–7

IBYC will once again host a US Sailing Level 1 Instructor Certification Course.

· Required for anyone teaching sailing at IBYC in the 2026 season

· Three-day, 30-hour course

· Nationally recognized standard for sailing instruction

· Open to individuals 15 and older

· Club members interested in assisting with Adult Learn to Sail are encouraged to attend

Registration is available through the Sailing tab on the IBYC website or at
ibycsailing.com

Looking Ahead

Before you know it, it will be April and the waterfront will be buzzing again. It’s shaping up to be a fantastic year at Island Bay Yacht Club. See you on the water—soon. — John Sepanski Waterfront Director, IBYC

January ‘26 Waterfront Monthly