Mariners 936 sea scouts will begin a new season in February; prospective new members and parents are invited for an informational meeting to take place on February 19th at 6:30 p.m at Sea base, 34451 Ensenada Pl, Dana Point, CA 92629. For those unable to make this meeting, there will be a repeat on February 26th.
The Mariners are currently on a winter break from instructional and competitive activities; however the fun does not stop! Members take advantage of long weekends in January and February to explore the California coast and Catalina Island; the winter months are a perfect time to secure moorings in Avalon for their four larger sailboats. The co-ed members enjoyed unusually warm weather this year and played beach volleyball, swimming off the boats and hiking the interior of the island. Plans are already laid for the President’s Weekend in February. Skipper Jim Wehan, scout leader and Sr. Captain for the Ocean Institute, reports that they will embark on the 118 foot schooner “Spirit of Dana Point” for an exploratory cruise through the Los Angeles and Long Beach Harbors, the coast off Palos Verdes, the weather side of Catalina and some of the secluded coves on the island. The 1812 war ship replica will be manned by the youth under the watchful eyes of Wehan and his regular crew. The tall ship is an ideal platform for seasoned youth to exercise their leadership skills as officers and also for the less experienced to learn the sailors’ trade as deck hands. It provides a great training ground for cooperation and team playing with life in close quarters; the young sailors will occupy twenty seven bunks in one main hold.
Immediately after the February cruise, Mariners will hold an informational meeting to learn more about this exceptional youth program. For boys and girls, ages 12 and 13, “Mariner Juniors” offers hands-on instruction in row boats, kayaks and Sabot, Laser and Capri sailboats, with emphasis on learning to sail and race. There is opportunity to be part of the crew on a “Spirit of Dana Point” day sail and an overnight cruise on a larger sailboat. Youth ages 14 through 18 may join the “Mariners” for hands-on instruction in all aspects of maritime skills related to recreational boating. The emphasis for the older youth is leadership development and community service. The Mariners compete, race, sail and cruise 12 months a year. Further membership information, calendars and events can be found at mariners936.com or email info@mariner936.com. Check out our Facebook page www.facebook.com/mariners936seascouts for updates!
