by Tina Henderson –
It all began on August 10, 1956 when a group of boaters formed a recreational organization called The Victoria Outboard Club. Members who owned small boats powered by outboard motors got together to enjoy and explore local waters. It is rumored that in 1957, four members made a non-stop round trip from Victoria to Port Angeles in two 14-foot runabouts powered by 35HP outboard engines with two water skiers behind each boat. In 1957, 22 open boats travelled with their families on board to Chatham Island and got stranded there overnight due to a sudden gale, making a return trip home impossible.
The club was organized and vocal, and became a political force when members campaigned to have a breakwater built in Oak Bay to protect the marina from the strong southeasterly winds. They lobbied all levels of government and eventually, a rock breakwater was built from Turkey Head toward Mary Todd Island to protect what is now Oak Bay Marina.
In 1970 the name was changed to the Victoria Cruising Club; its objectives are to foster powerboat cruising, develop a fraternal spirit, conduct safe powerboating practices and promote good sportsmanship and camaraderie amongst members. The Victoria Cruising Club is not a yacht club, although it is organized like one. Meetings with guest speakers or presentations on safety and marine-related topics are held monthly.
Membership is limited to 75 active members and the majority of vessels are moored locally here on the Saanich Peninsula.
Members are an active group of power boat owners who are dedicated to taking full advantage of our wonderful local waters. With family and friends, they explore the Gulf Islands and beyond in good company and good fellowship. There are many well-attended weekend cruises every year. Organized games, hikes, special excursions and events are enjoyed by all. To keep the members informed a monthly newsletter called “Kicker Kapers” is printed.
The Victoria Cruising Club recently celebrated 60 years by holding a champagne and cake function at the Port of Sidney with past and present members in attendance.
If you are interested in joining the Victoria Cruising Club, or for more information and a schedule of upcoming meetings, visit
www.victoriacruisingclub.com.
