Frequently Asked Questions

This area is a continuous improvement zone as more FAQs are added. In case of doubt, refer to the Members’ Handbook.

1. Hazardous and Waste Materials

What do I do with old batteries and tarpaulins?

DO NOT leave them anywhere on or near the club premises. They must be taken off the club premises by the member and disposed of using their normal hazardous waste disposal facilities.

What do I do with old paint and oil products?

DO NOT leave them anywhere on or near the club premises. DO NOT put them in the recycling or garbage bins. All hazardous materials must be removed from the club premises by the member who has used them.

2. Holding Tanks and Porta Potties

Where can I empty my porta potty or boat holding tank?

During the season a pump out station is available to members. Porta Potties are NEVER to be emptied into the club toilets and through to the septic system.

3. Parking and Club Security

Can I park inside the club gates?

Members may park inside the gates between Boats Out and Boats In Days to service their boats. No parking is permitted between Boats In Day and Boats Out day.

Exceptions: going cruising overnight (park against inside fence, leave car key with manager/bosun) or briefly dropping something off (move car outside after).

Can I charge my electric car inside the harbour?

NO. Electric vehicles may NOT be charged within the harbour.

Who is responsible for locking the Clubhouse and Gates?

YOU ARE! The last member out of the club on any day MUST make sure the club house doors and large gate are locked when they leave.

4. Dogs

Can I bring my dog to the club?

Non-aggressive dogs are allowed to be taken to an owner’s boat on a leash. Dogs must remain on a leash at all times and are not allowed in the clubhouse lounge or upper balcony.

5. Enjoying the Clubhouse

Can I use the kitchen when there are no events going on?

YES! Senior members may use the kitchen while there are no club events in progress providing they thoroughly clean and dry any items used. No dirty dishes in the sink. If a BBQ is used, ensure it is left clean with gas off.

Can I use the umbrellas on the balcony?

YES! Providing they are folded up when finished. They can rip in strong wind and are expensive to replace.

What is the Club Sail Past?

Each year members gather on a Saturday afternoon near the beginning of the season. The Commodore’s boat lays at anchor and members sail past and salute by lowering the foresail. Followed by a Commodore’s race and party. Great way for new members to meet others.

What are the weekly BBQs?

Most Saturday nights there is an informal social event — typically a family BBQ. Bring your own protein and drinks. Members take turns hosting and providing sides for a nominal charge. Some weekends have special events like Corn Night, Lobster Night. Contact social@bdyc.com for details.

6. Buying and Selling Boats

What must I do if I want to buy a bigger boat?

Contact the Harbour Master PRIOR to bringing a bigger boat. There is NO GUARANTEE a slip will be available.

What is the biggest sized boat that can be brought into the club?

30 x 10.25 x 4.5 feet (length x beam x draft). The Harbour Master must be consulted before bringing a new boat in.

What must I do if I want to sell my boat?

Contact the Membership Director. If offering with slip transfer potential, the boat must be offered exclusively to the waiting list for 10 business days first. The new owner must pass the member interview process.

If not offering the slip, you’re free to sell but must still notify the Membership Director and Harbour Master.

7. Harbour

When are Docks and Boats In and Out Days?

Docks In: last Saturday in April. Boats In: first Saturday of May. Boats Out: last Saturday of October. Docks Out: first Saturday of November.

Do I need to help at Docks In/Out Day?

All able-bodied family or student members are required to assist, regardless of boat ownership.

Who helps launch and take out boats?

A duty list is emailed and posted on the website.

What if I’m on the duty list but can’t attend?

YOUR RESPONSIBILITY to inform the Harbour Master at least 48 hours prior AND find a suitable substitute.

How must I mark my boat cradle or trailer?

Family name (not boat name) must be PAINTED on the bow end. Must be readable above snow level. Dinghy trailers also need the owner’s name.

How must I mark my boat for launching/hauling?

Mark the points at deck level where lifting straps should be placed.

How must I prepare my cradle before Boats Out Day?

  1. Remove materials one week before.
  2. Ensure pads are safe.
  3. Ensure pads are at right height.

Can I work on my boat during Boats In/Out Days?

NO. Not permitted for safety reasons while boats are being launched/hauled.

How do I moor my boat?

Members provide bow and stern moorings. Don’t let chain rub on main dock.

Can I attach cleats to my finger dock?

NO. Use only bow and stern moorings — direct attachment damages the dock.

Can I use the club’s Styrofoam blocks?

NO. They’re expensive and for floating docks only.

Can I use my BBQ on my boat in the harbour?

NO. Use the club BBQs on the clubhouse deck to reduce fire risk.

What about extension cords in the harbour?

Strict safety procedures apply — see club rules.

Can I use the blue crane?

Members only, boats under 3,800 lbs. Return equipment to box, unplug, lock. Combo same as gate. Non-members cannot use it.

What about problems with my finger dock or mooring buoy?

Notify the Harbour Master or Club Manager.

Can I keep a kayak, canoe or tender at the club?

YES! Family or student members may store one on their cradle/trailer between Boats In and Docks Out.

Can I fish in the harbour?

NO.

Can I swim in the harbour?

NO.

Can my children play around the harbour?

NOT RECOMMENDED. Children must be supervised and wear PFDs near the harbour.

8. Club Racing

Does BDYC organize club races?

YES! Full schedule of weeknight and weekend races. All welcome.

How can I participate?

As crew or skipper. Schedule published at start of season. Contact the Sailing Master or Manager.

How can I learn to race?

BDYC organizes learning events. Contact the Sailing Master or Manager.

9. Club Management

Can my son or daughter work as a bosun?

YES! Youth 16+ can apply. Contact the Rear Commodore or Manager.

How are Board members nominated?

A nomination committee forms each fall. If you have not served for 5 years and are requested, you are required to serve. Floor nominations are also accepted at the annual meeting.

10. Learning to Sail

Is there a Junior Sailing program?

YES! Full program, recently awarded best in the province. See the Sailing School page.

Is there an Adult Sailing program?

YES! Dinghy sail training and keelboat certification. Contact the Manager.

11. Membership

What if I have a question about membership?

See the Membership page or contact membership@bdyc.com.