🚤 Events & Activities

As a boating organization, we host a wide variety of on-water and social events for our members to enjoy throughout the year. From formal traditions to casual raft-ups, there’s something for everyone.

🌸 Spring Brunch

We kick off the boating season with our Spring Brunch, typically held at one of the fine restaurants along the South Shore. Members arrive by both boat and car to enjoy good food, fellowship, and the start of another year on the water.

⚓ Blessing of the Fleet

Each spring, boaters gather in the Connetquot River or Bay Shore Marina for a non-denominational blessing of the fleet. The event is free and open to the public, drawing participation from the U.S. Coast Guard, Suffolk Police, Harbor Patrol, and other agencies. Our largest blessing welcomed more than 150 boats in procession.

🏖️ Spring Picnic on Fire Island

Held in June at rotating venues between Watch Hill and Cedar Beach, the Spring Picnic is one of our most popular events.

• Friday night: Tent setup, casual burgers and hot dogs.

• Saturday: Fresh clams, the Commander’s Liquor Locker, piña coladas, homemade chili, catered lunch or BBQ, plus a community potluck dinner.

• Sunday: Tent takedown, with most marinas allowing discounted day-stays for our members.

🤝 Summer Raft Ups

A raft up is the simplest of gatherings—boats tied together to form a floating community. These are casual overnight events with no set schedule. Everything is BYO, though members often pool resources for food and drinks. A quiet-hours policy ensures a peaceful night for all.

🚨 Squadron Emergency Response Assistance Team (SERAT)

Our SERAT Unit supports the Coast Guard, law enforcement, and fire departments with on-water emergency response. Members volunteer their skills and knowledge of local waters to assist with rescues, patrols, and safety operations whenever called upon.

⚓ Dockside Raft Up

Launched just a few years ago, the Dockside Raft Up offers the same easygoing spirit as our on-water raft ups, but at marinas without electric or water service, such as Robert Moses Boat Basin. With special permits, members enjoy rare overnight stays at locations that are normally off-limits.

🎯 The P/C Warren Alber, JN Rodeo

Named for Past Commander Warren Alber, this boat-handling competition puts captains’ skills to the test in a timed buoy obstacle course. Challenges include docking maneuvers, backing into slips, and precision turns. It’s a test of finesse and accuracy—and a fun way to show off your seamanship.

🌊 District III Rendezvous East

Each summer, Squadrons from across Long Island make the voyage east—sometimes even to Connecticut—for a three-day gathering.

• Friday Night: District Commander’s Cocktail Party with food, drinks, music, and dancing.

• Saturday: Social picnic atmosphere with food, open bar, and entertainment.

• Saturday Night: District Dinner, ranging from casual BYO tent events to formal sit-down meals depending on the year.

Get Involved

Our events blend tradition, fun, and camaraderie. Whether you’re rafting up with friends, competing in the rodeo, or sharing a cocktail at Rendezvous East, there’s always a place for you in America’s Boating Club of Great South Bay.