Celebrate the opening of the 2018-19 sailing season.
1.00pm: Social Sailing
2.00pm: Sailpast (see notes below which describe the Sailpast)
4.00pm: The official opening of the 2018-19 sailing season by the Commodore followed by Afternoon Tea.

The Sailpast: The Sailpast is a formal event that officially opens the sailing season. The Sailpast tradition began at the first Yacht Club that was formed at Cowes in England nearly 200 years ago. 

The actual Sailpast or “review of the fleet” is steeped in more than 600 years of Royal Navy tradition and history and was introduced in Yacht clubs as a continuation of the naval habit of having Admirals (and/or Royalty) review the fleet on special occasions. Protocol demanded that a flagship be anchored with the Admiral and staff on the quarterdeck to receive and return the salute. Vessels sailed past, dipping their colours in salute, and with their captain also saluting with the ship’s company standing at attention. The Vice Admiral would lead the fleet passing in review and the final vessel in the line would carry the Rear Admiral.

The Westernport Yacht Club tradition is almost identical, except that the salute is received by the Commodore (who will be on board a rescue/power boat) and the salute is delivered by the passing boat, if under sail, by luffing its jib, or, if under power, by dipping its ensign. All of the crew on the saluting boat stands at attention facing the Commodore, who is the only one to salute by hand.