Sailpast

Commodore Danny Foster & the Board of Directors Invite You to the 2026 Sailpast

Sunday, June 28, 2026 (Registration Required)

What is Sailpast?

Sailpast is one of Kelowna Yacht Club’s longest-standing traditions and one of the few formal events on the Club calendar. Each year, members gather to honour the Commodore as the Club’s fleet passes before the Commodore’s flagship, exchanging a traditional salute.

This tradition is celebrated by yacht clubs around the world and is a proud part of KYC’s history.

Sailpast Attire & Etiquette

Traditionally, skippers and crew wear Club blazers and whites, although neat and appropriate yachting attire is acceptable.

The Sailpast Salute

As your vessel comes abeam of the Commodore’s flagship:

• The skipper renders a salute to the Commodore.
• A crew member dips the vessel’s flag by lowering it or gathering it to the staff.
• Sailboats briefly luff their foremost headsail.
• The Commodore returns the salute.

Who Can Participate?

All Kelowna Yacht Club members are invited and encouraged to participate, whether by boat or by attending the morning ceremonies and breakfast.

If you are unable to attend, tradition suggests that your regrets be sent to the Commodore through the registration process.

Schedule of Events

8:30 – 9:30 AM : Complimentary Breakfast Buffet | Member Lounge

9:30 AM : Flag Raising Ceremony | Flagpole

9:35 AM : Board Procession & Sailpast Ceremony | Member Lounge

10:00 AM : Proceed to Boats

10:30 AM : Sailpast Begins

Breakfast & Ceremony

All members are welcome to join us for a complimentary breakfast buffet before the event. Registration is required; however, seating will be open and available on a first-come basis.

Following the Flag Raising Ceremony, the Board of Directors and visiting dignitaries will be led by bagpiper to the Member Lounge for the official Sailpast Ceremony. Members are encouraged to attend and take part in this longstanding Club tradition.

Before You Leave the Dock – Vessel Dress

Sailing Vessels

• KYC Burgee on the starboard spreader
• Squadron or club flags beneath
• National flag at the stern

Power Vessels

• KYC Burgee on the bow staff or pilothouse staff
• Squadron or club flags on a separate staff
• National flag at the stern

On the Water

• Monitor VHF Channel 6
• Maintain approximately two boat lengths between vessels
• Pass approximately 30 feet from the Commodore’s flagship
• Maintain approximately 5 knots
• All vessels should proceed under power and sail to keep the fleet moving safely and consistently

Fleet Order

Vessels will proceed in the following order:

Sailing Fleet

• Fleet Captain
• KYC Past Commodores
• Visiting Dignitaries
• Sailing Fleet
• Junior Sailors

Power Fleet

• Staff Captain
• KYC Past Commodores
• Visiting Dignitaries
• Power Fleet

Vice and Rear Commodores follow immediately behind their respective Fleet Captain or Staff Captain.

Sailpast Trophy

The Sailpast Trophy is awarded annually to the fleet with the highest participation. Every vessel participating in Sailpast counts toward its fleet’s total.

Following Sailpast, fleets traditionally gather and raft together on the lake to continue the celebration.

Sailpast Program: Coming Soon

Questions?

Please contact Member Services:

📧 info@kelownayachtclub.com
📞 (250) 762-3310 ext. 200