The Semiahmoo Yacht Club (SYC) recently hosted an opening day ceremony at the Semiahmoo marina. The event, which took place on May 4, began with a blessing of the fleet by Reverend Marilyn Rockwell-Bengen. The blessing was followed by a flag raising ceremony, in which the American, Canadian and SYC flags were raised. Next came the sailpast, in which a parade of sail and motor vessels passed by and saluted SYC commodore Laura Moore-Dempsey. SYC members and guests later enjoyed a luncheon at the Semiahmoo Resort. During the lunch, a donation was presented to Drayton Harbor Maritime, which operates the Plover ferry. Captain Richard Sturgill accepted the donation, which will go towards the running and maintenance of the Plover. With sunshine and fair winds, the weather cooperated to make it a successful opening day.
All photos by Katherine Crosbie.
SYC members gathered at the Semiahmoo marina to take part in the opening day ceremonies. 
The blessing of the fleet is an ancient custom whereby sailors ask for protection while at sea. 
Friends and family watched the raising of the American, Canadian and SYC flags. 
A furry friend also observed the ceremony, which took place on May 4. 
The historic Plover ferry led a parade of SYC members’ boats around the harbor. 
During the sailpast parade, boats saluted SYC commodore Laura Moore-Dempsey. 
One performs a salute by luffing the jib if under sail or, if under power, by dipping the ensign. 
SYC members and guests enjoyed a luncheon at the Semiahmoo Resort. 
The luncheon featured a delicious buffet for guests to enjoy. 
Captain Richard Sturgill accepted a generous donation for the maintenance of the Plover ferry.
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