Boothbay Harbor Yacht Club gears up for exciting winter projects

Sat, 02/03/2024 - 10:00am

As winter winds sweep across the harbor, the Boothbay Harbor Yacht Club (BHYC) is a hive of activity, with a flurry of winter projects underway to prepare for the upcoming sailing and tennis seasons.

At the forefront of these endeavors is Chris Liberti, dedicating his expertise to the repair and revitalization of the sailing fleet. Liberti is meticulously working on the repair and maintenance of the 420s, Tech Dinghies, Optis, and RS Fevas. These vessels are destined to set sail with the spring high school sailing team and the eagerly anticipated summer Junior Sailing program. Liberti's commitment ensures that the nautical adventures at BHYC will be met with safety and excitement.

On the tennis front, the club welcomes a familiar face as Michael Mills assumes the role of tennis director. With years of experience as a tennis instructor, Michael is poised to lead all Junior and Adult tennis activities at the club. His appointment comes as Chantalle Arsenault, who has been at the helm of the BHYC tennis program since 2016, steps down. Chantalle’s mentorship will ensure that the tennis program will continue to thrive and improve under Michael's leadership.

While the focus is on preparing for the upcoming seasons, the BHYC is not neglecting essential repairs and renovations. The Pond House, which houses many of the seasonal employees, has undergone a complete interior renovation, with exterior painting soon to follow. Club members can also anticipate upgraded facilities, as the clubhouse bathrooms are slated to receive new floors.

Structural enhancements are also in progress, addressing crucial areas of the club. Blake’s Boatyard will soon begin repairs to load-bearing beams beneath the clubhouse, ensuring the stability and longevity of the building. Additionally, joists are being added under the deck to reinforce its structure, a necessary precaution in the wake of recent storms that have swept through the area.

As BHYC buzzes with activity, members eagerly anticipate the unveiling of these improvements, ready to embrace another season of sailing, tennis, and camaraderie along the picturesque shores of Boothbay Harbor.