The Laguna Woods Yacht Club (LWYC) has been a beacon for sailing enthusiasts since its formation in 2002. Dedicated to promoting the joy and skills of sailing, the club offers a unique blend of on-the-water adventures and off-the-water social activities that cater to all levels of interest and experience.
A Nautical Haven for All
The LWYC welcomes all residents of Laguna Woods Village, whether you are a seasoned sailor, a former mariner, or an arm-chair sailor looking to dip your toes into the world of yachting. Membership in the club is an open invitation to explore the serene waters on our prized sloop, the Hiatus, a Catalina 30′ yacht berthed at Dana Point Harbor. Members are entitled to sail up to three times a month, subject to availability, and can choose to either ride along and enjoy the scenic views or actively participate in sailing the vessel.
Day Sail Information
Ongoing activities at the LWYC include day sails, monthly club meetings with refreshments and special presentations, monthly happy hours, and skipper’s committee meetings. The club’s calendar represents a generic monthly schedule, open to all members except for the skipper’s committee meetings. If you are interested in participating in any given activity, please follow the appropriate procedure listed below the calendar.
Eligibility: To sail, you must be a member in good standing. Your membership must be current before you can register and must also be current on the day of the sail. Yacht club members must reside in Laguna Woods Village, CA, a community for adults aged 55 and older. Prospective members are asked to fill out an application for the waitlist. When openings become available, applicants will be notified by the membership committee. At present, the capped roster of 125 is full.
Rules of Etiquette Aboard the Hiatus: Take a look at these common-sense Rules of Etiquette for sailing on the Hiatus to ensure a pleasant and safe experience for all.
Making Day Sail Reservations: Reservations must be made beforehand on the website calendar. Each month, the calendar opens for sign-ups before the following month. Day sails are reserved for members only. Members may sail three times per month and/or two waitlists. Skippers and first mates may sail as needed to ensure safe handling and navigation aboard Hiatus. If you need to cancel your reservation, please do so as soon as you know. Always exercise the courtesy of formally canceling. Please confirm your reservation with the skipper the week of the sail to maintain manageable crew sizes.
Click here to read the reflections from one of our skippers, Terry Miles, about the “Joys of Day Sailing”.
More Than Just Sailing
While the allure of sailing is a significant draw, the LWYC is also renowned for its vibrant social calendar. The club hosts monthly meetings every first Wednesday at 4:30 PM in Clubhouse 7, featuring engaging programs and ample opportunities for social interaction. Non-members are encouraged to attend these meetings to get a taste of what the club offers, with a nominal guest fee of $10.
In addition to the regular sails and meetings, the club offers comprehensive sailing courses catering to all skill levels, from beginners to advanced sailors. These courses are designed to hone your sailing skills and ensure you gain the confidence to navigate the waters safely and enjoyably.
Membership Details
To join this socially oriented nautical club, prospective members must reside in Laguna Woods Village, a community for adults aged 55 and older. The annual membership dues are $225, payable upon approval of your application by the membership committee. This fee grants you access to all club activities, including day sails on the Hiatus. All members are required to sign an insurance waiver, ensuring the club’s compliance with its comprehensive nautical insurance policy.
While the membership is currently capped at 125 and full, interested residents are encouraged to apply for the waitlist. Joining the waitlist is straightforward, and you will be asked to agree to the club’s Code of Conduct as part of the process.
Why Join the Laguna Woods Yacht Club?
- Sailing Adventures: Experience the thrill of sailing without the need to own a boat.
- Community Engagement: Meet like-minded individuals and build lasting friendships through regular social events and meetings.
- Skill Development: Enhance your sailing skills through structured courses.
- Scenic Escapes: Enjoy the beauty of Dana Point Harbor and the opportunity to spot dolphins while sailing.
Joining the LWYC is more than just becoming part of a club; it’s about embracing a lifestyle of adventure, camaraderie, and continuous learning. Whether you’re navigating the waters or mingling at social events, the Laguna Woods Yacht Club offers a fulfilling and enriching experience for all its members.
To find out more about the club’s history and activities, or to apply for the waitlist, please visit our website or contact us at the details below:
Laguna Woods Yacht Club
P.O. Box 2002
Laguna Hills, CA 92654
Email: [email protected]
Website
Embark on your sailing journey today with the Laguna Woods Yacht Club and discover the joys of the nautical life!
The Laguna Woods Yacht Club sounds nice. I’m interested in sailing, but I don’t know much about it. It seems like a good place to learn and meet new people.
It’s interesting to see a club with both sailing and social activities. The membership is full now, but joining the waitlist seems like a good idea. The rules and procedures are clear and well-organized.