Do the parties get better the further North you go? It is light longer and the Northerners sure do take advantage of those long summer days. The Pacific Northwest Jeanneau owners have been regular participants in Summer Sailstice for several years now gathering in various hidden harbors in the NW islands. This year they’re returning to a favorite – Poets Cove on South Pender Island in the Gulf Islands.
This year they expect 40-50 boats making it one of the largest Sailstice celebrations anywhere. Not wanting to miss a minute the festivities begin with a dock party on Friday that goes well into the evening twilight which lasts until 11pm.
On Summer Sailstice Saturday the day is packed starting with a morning seminar, a lunch break and then the big Jeanneau Parade of Yachts and Summer Sailstice sailoff. There are usually at least 20 boats out sailing. Following this is a ‘Spy vs. Spy’ theme party with white and black Russions and blindfolded dinghy races.
Saturday night there will be a Jeanneau Dinner and Prize Extravaganza with all guests attired in their best pirate wear. Johnny Depp is scheduled to be somewhere. Sunday there’s a morning coffee and rolls as everyone gets ready for the sail home or many will continue on using this as a start of their summer San Juan and Gulf Islands Cruise.
If you want to join them visit the Marine Service Center site.