Opening Day marks the beginning of the spring boating season, a cherished tradition at yacht clubs across North America. While boaters in the Pacific Northwest are fortunate to enjoy year round sailing, many clubs haul their boats out during the winter due to ice and harsh conditions. Opening Day is a time to welcome boats back to the water and often includes the longstanding naval tradition of a fleet review.

The Royal Victoria Yacht Club is proud to have served the local community for over 130 years. With over 2,000 members, ranging from our youngest junior sailors to those who have been with us for decades, we continue to grow and thrive thanks to our shared love of the sea.

This Opening Day, our 133rd, we are honored to recognize our members who have been part of RVYC for 50, 60, 70, and even 80 years, as well as welcome and celebrate our Junior members.

The most awaited event of the year is finally here! The Commodore and Board of Directors are excited to welcome Club members and guests to the 133rd Opening Day on Friday and Saturday, April 25th & 26th.

EVENT DETAILS
The festivities start with the Commodore's Dinner on Friday, April 25th, 2025.
Friday, April 25th, 2025- Commodore’s Opening Day Dinner Schedule ( Reservations Only)

1730 : Cocktail Mixer
1800 : Commodore’s Dinner
1930 : Sunset Ceremony

All members are warmly invited to join us for an evening of entertainment by the 'Fabulous B Sides', beginning at 20:15. Whether or not you have a dinner reservation or plan to dine with us, you’re most welcome to attend.

On Saturday, April 26th, please plan to arrive at the club between 11:45 and 13:00 before the festivities begin. We strongly encourage carpooling or using taxis as parking will be tight. Boats may be rafted during Opening Day, and we look forward to your cooperation.

Saturday, April 26th, 2025- Opening Day Schedule

1200 : Commodore’s Reception by invitation
1330 : Flag Raising Ceremony
1430 : Sailpast
1500 : Children’s Activities on the east lawn
1600 : BBQ, with entertainment by the Club band ‘Frayed Knot’ on Star Point
1930: BBQ ends
1940 : Sunset Ceremony

Opening Day 2024 Highlights
Video Credits- West Coast Ventures

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I register for the BBQ on Saturday?

To join the Saturday BBQ Buffet, you need to sign up early for meal tickets to assist the Food & Beverage team with planning and purchasing. BBQ tickets are free for children who are 5 years old and below, $11 for children aged 5 to 11, and $22 for everyone else (inclusive of tax & gratuities). Please collect your BBQ Tickets from the registration counter on the day of Opening day.

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

What is a Sailpast?

The tradition of Sailpast dates back nearly 200 years to the Royal Yacht Squadron in England. Rooted in over 600 years of Royal Navy tradition, Sailpast allows us to honor our fleet in a special way. As our Commodore stands aboard his yacht in Cadboro Bay, each club boat passes by, dipping its ensign in salute while crew members face the Commodore and the ship's master salutes. The Commodore graciously returns the salute by hand. Immediately after the Flag Raising Ceremony, members or guests without boats who wish to participate in the Sailpast are requested to meet on the lawn near the cherry tree. All vessel types are invited to participate – from standup paddleboards, to Junior & Race Team dinghies, kayaks, Mini 12 and 2.4mR sailboats, surfski craft and power and sailboats. Honorary Reverend Edwin Taylor will bless the passing boats. He will be accompanied by our Honorary Photographer Andrew Madding, who will photograph the Fleet.

SAILPAST BROCHURE

What should I wear on Opening Day?

Wearing traditional 'whites' connects us to Opening Day history and tradition. The dress code includes white pants and shoes, a white dress shirt, and a navy blue blazer with the Club crest for gentlemen. Gentlemen should also wear a Club tie (Burgee tie emblem preferred), while ladies are encouraged to wear a Club silk scarf. However, an alternative suggested dress code includes Khaki pants or skirt with blue or white polo shirt. A dark blue sweater or jacket may also be worn ensuring flexibility for attendees. Children are central to our Opening Day and may wear clothes that allow them to play and be comfortable. The most important aspect is participation! Click the link below to purchase your club tie, silk scarf, or blazer crest.

ORDER HERE

Will I get a space for parking?

As always, parking will be at a premium. Special Guests will have designated parking, and a portion of the lower parking lot will be available for member “scramble parking.” Additional parking can be found on the streets surrounding the Club—please ensure you observe all posted signage and avoid areas marked ‘No Parking.’ Out of courtesy to our neighbours, we kindly ask that you do not block driveways, fire hydrants, or bus stops. Please note that construction along Beach Drive may cause some delays. To help ease congestion, we strongly encourage carpooling or using a taxi or rideshare service where possible.

Any other query?