Submitted by Terry Lee Milligan and Deryn Harkness,
Tobermory Yacht Club
Are you interested in recreational boating on the waters of Fathom Five National Park and environs? Do you have a run-about that you launch from your cottage or while visiting Tobermory from the Little Tub boat launch ramp? Are you a kayaker or jetskier? Do you have a berth in Little Tub or Big Tub? Sailor or powerboater?
If so, consider Tobermory Yacht Club (TYC) as your voice of advocacy and information on safe boating in the Tobermory area. Keeping in mind the history of shipwrecks in Fathom Five National Parks, the busy tour boats and local harbours, we rely on our capable Harbourmaster and team for leadership, Parks Canada who manage Fathom Five and our local Coast Guard for support.
But who do we check in with for local knowledge, fun and safe boating? – Tobermory Yacht Club.
Recently TYC, at member request, approached Parks Canada for information on the recreational boating dock at Beachy Cove, Flowerpot Island and have been assured by Acting Superintendent Ethan Meleg that all the dock components are onsite and the dock will be in operation as soon as staff are available. Parks Canada fees or long-time local resident passes will be required. TYC will follow up.
Are you curious about the new markers between Little Tub and Big Tub and want to stay up to date on local boating regulations in Fathom Five National Park? So are the members of TYC who are happy to gather up-to-date information for members regarding safe and responsible boating practices.
This year TYC celebrated its 40th anniversary with an outdoor dinner celebration hosted by Gail and Lawrence Beagan. Members appreciated the receipt of a 40th anniversary plaque from the House of Commons.
The Tobermory Yacht Club was started in the early 1980s by a group of recreational boaters meeting casually to formalize a boating community forum, plan some rendezvous, Chi-Cheemaun group dinner cruise, regular power boat rallies and decades of sailing regatta events. As well the club hosted sailing “Boom Program” lessons for several seasons in co-operation with Ontario Sailing. TYC also funded and built the mast crane at Little Tub harbour.
Local boaters incorporated TYC in 1983, and by 2000 had a high of 54 members, holding steady through 2017 at 51. This year’s events included participation in the Chi-Cheemaun weekend with a booth and cardboard boat race entry, Canada Day Boat Parade led by Canada Coast Guard, Kayak Poker Run Event, monthly potluck dinners and regular coffee mornings.
While this boating season is winding down, think about joining TYC for 2024 by contacting Tobermory Yacht Club at tobermoryyachtclub@gmail.com or Facebook – Groups and request to join.
