The Cruising Yacht Club of Australia recently announced that its crew membership category has been reopened to make membership more affordable for those in the 18-29 age bracket.

Following the acceptance of a special resolution at the annual general meeting, the previously dormant crew membership category has been reinvigorated and for just $195 per annum plus a one off $1 entry fee, those between 18 and 29 can now join Australia’s premier ocean racing club.

Relaunching the crew membership category is part of the club’s overall objective to nurture and promote the sport of yachting and to address the challenges associated with finding a sustainable and qualified source of crew for yacht owners.

“The CYCA’s board of directors sees this as a wonderful initiative to introduce new members who will become active offshore and inshore sailors and eventually boat owners themselves,” said Commodore Matt Allen.

“I encourage all current CYCA members, particularly those sailing with crew in the relevant age range, to support this initiative,” added Commodore Allen.

Crew membership entitlements include;

– club entry
– ability to sign in one guest per visit
– members 10% discount on bar, bottle shop and merchandise purchases
– copy of the bi-monthly Offshore Yachting magazine and weekly email newsletter
– invitation to the new member’s cocktail party.

Conditions for the crew membership category include;

– no parking rights
– cannot skipper a yacht
– not eligible to attend an AGM or vote
– no berthing rights in the CYCA marina.

Once the crew member turns 30 they will automatically be upgraded to full membership and the joining fee for full membership will be waived.

The reopening of the crew membership category is an initiative of the club’s member services committee and they and the club’s board and staff will be actively promoting the benefits. Membership forms are available from CYCA reception and can be downloaded by clicking here.