Introduction to 1st Saturday and Other Cruising Events
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Every first Saturday of the month, we host a planned cruise for Barefoot Sailing Club members and people interested in possibly becoming members. The cruise usually lasts from 11am to 4pm in the afternoon. Everyone meets at 11am at the Sunrise Cove Marina Clubhouse for a brief meet and greet, usually including some refreshments and snacks provided by BFSC members. Skippers assign crew to boats, determine a destination/sail plan, and then everyone is off to the boats.
There are other cruise events in addition to the 1st Saturday. Look for the registration to include the objective of the cruise, the meet and greet location and time, and any other pertinent information regarding the cruise. Please see Upcoming Cruises for the latest events.
Here are some brief answers to frequently asked questions:
WHAT TO WEAR?
For regular cruises, it is best to wear layers dependent on the weather and your body type. Always wear soft-soled shoes. In the summer months, bring a swimsuit if you would like to join others if the plan is to cool off in the water. During the summer, I recommend bringing your hat and sunscreen. For additional details, see Summer Sailing Tips and Winter Sailing Tips.
FOOD & DRINK?
You may choose to bring a small to medium cooler or backpack with something to eat and drink as we will be out on the water during lunchtime. This is not required but encouraged. Some guests like to bring something to share with others – this is your choice and not required.
SAFETY?
The skipper will have life vests on their boat as required by law. If you have a personal flotation device you would like to use, you are encouraged to use it. The most important safety feature is to listen to the instructions of your skipper.
RAIN?
Rain or shine we meet at 11am at the Clubhouse. If the weather is undesirable, we find a restaurant to enjoy a brunch and each other’s company.​​​​​​​
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​​​​​​​​​By SEASON, Barefoot Sailing Club's cruising opportunities are:
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YEAR ROUND
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First Saturday Cruises - Held most first Saturday of the months, these cruises provide a popular way for prospects to experience sailing in a relaxed environment and get to know Barefoot members. To participate, sign-up for an upcoming cruise. Cruisers will meet at the Skippers meeting - typically at the Sunrise Cove Marina clubhouse deck at 11 AM. But, confirm this with the signup details.
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SUMMER
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UYC July 4th Fireworks Cruise - Come out for a leisurely cruise and raft-up on July 3rd to watch UYC's annual fireworks celebration.
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Sunset - Moonrise Cruises - New for 2024, these late afternoon/evening cruises are a member perk. The first Sunset - Moonrise cruise was held Thursday, June 20, 2024.
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ADDITIONALLY, though not Barefoot-sponsored, several of our members also participate in:
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BLUE WATER CRUISING
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2024 Share the Sail - Loads of fun, you'll meet other crews from around the country. For 2024, past Cruising Fleet Captain Norman Plotkin is planning to fill one or two boats in the Share the Sail fleet charter, sponsored by Latitudes & Attitudes magazine. This cruise is to the BVI's November 2nd thru 9th. If interested, please let us know.
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ADDITIONAL SAILING COMMUNITIES (FACEBOOK)
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Lake Lanier Sail Rats
This group is open to all Sailors that would like to share experiences, plan meet ups, post pictures and celebrate all aspects of the joy of sailing in our wonderful Lake Lanier.
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Sassy Sailors of Lanier
A group of women, interested in sailing and supporting each other, who have questions, want to learn and are willing to share experiences about sailing.​
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On a related note, annually, we award a "Cruiser of the Year". The Cruiser of the Year Award recognizes the member who embraces or, by example, personifies non-competitive sailing (cruising) activities. The member may have organized or participated in local or blue-water cruising events, entertained in a cruising environment, embarked on a cruising lifestyle, provided coaching during cruising events, or derived or imparted joy and/or enthusiasm for cruising events.