Over the weekend of February 24-25, the Gordon’s Bay Yacht Club (GBYC) enjoyed their anticipated ‘raid’ weekend, cruising to Simon’s Town with 14 yachts. They were hosted by the False Bay Yacht Club (FBYC). This tradition, spanning many years, involves social activities and a playful "liberation" of items from the host club's clubhouse, to be returned during future raids. GBYC returned an artwork taken during a previous raid.

The fleet, ranging from a 7m Holiday 23 to an 11m Tosca 36, comprised 41 sailors, with additional members joining in Simon’s Town. Departing before dawn on Saturday, they encountered moderate north-westerly winds, sailing directly or enjoying a scenic coastal route past Seal Island, Swartklip, Muizenburg, Kalk Bay, and Fish Hoek.

Despite some rain, festivities at FBYC included a braai and live music by saxophonist Gary ‘The Lips’ Sletcher, alongside exchanging raided items. Sunday’s southerly winds made for a smooth return, with sightings of common dolphins on both legs.

Arriving on schedule at high tide on Sunday, the successful voyage underscored challenges faced by Gordon’s Bay Harbour, increasingly tide-bound due to a lack of dredging maintenance. Read full article here: https://www.news24.com/news24/community-newspaper/districtmail-helderberggazette/sailing-gordons-bay-yacht-club-raids-simons-town-20240305