Sea Lions Need a Lift—Can You Help?

We have received an urgent call for help from the Pacific Marine Mammal Center, in Laguna Beach. A harmful algae bloom—Pseudo-nitzschia—has been detected off our coast, producing a dangerous neurotoxin called domoic acid. This toxin is causing widespread illness and, tragically, death among local marine life, especially California sea lions and dolphins.

The Marine Mammal Center, works tirelessly to rescue, treat, and rehabilitate these affected animals. Due to the overwhelming number of cases, they have asked the boating community for assistance.

They are looking for power boat owners with large transoms to help transport rehabilitated sea lions 4 to 5 miles offshore for safe relocation. Each animal will travel in a secured kennel and be accompanied by a trained technician from the Center, who will ensure the safety and well-being of both the animal and the boat operator.

This is a way for the boating community to directly support marine wildlife during a time of crisis. While sea lions can be a nuisance in the harbor when nothing is done to keep them off the docks, they are a natural and important part of the coastal ecology.

📞 Interested in helping?

Please contact Glen Gray at the Pacific Marine Mammal Center for details:

(949) 322-8590 “Bring the love, and we’ll bring the kennel.”

Boaters of the Month: Phil & Robin — Riding the Wind, On and Off the Water

This month, we’re celebrating a dynamic duo who prove that you don’t need to own a boat to be a true boater. Phil and Robin are active sailors and loyal crew members in the weekly Pharkle races. Their dedication, enthusiasm, and sense of humor make them standout members of our harbor community.

Phil, a retired medical doctor, and Robin, an action photographer with a background in competitive dressage, bring a lifetime of passion, precision, and adventure to the water. Before sailboats became their mainstay, they owned two horses and a donkey. Robin has also taught skiing and horseback riding, sharing her love for movement and mastery on both snow and saddle. She’s quick to remind us: “Horses may be cheaper than boats... and they’re definitely more affectionate!”

Their transition from four-legged companions to wind-driven racing has only deepened their bond with nature and each other. Whether trimming sails or swapping stories, Phil and Robin bring joy, skill, and great spirit to every outing. We’re proud to highlight them as this month’s Boaters of the Month—a reminder that the heart of boating lies not in ownership, but in participation, camaraderie, and love for the water.



Know someone who deserves the spotlight? Let us know—your nominee could be our next Boater of the Month!

Boater Rights Under Fire: Two Appeals, One Fight for Justice

As previously advised, Plaintiffs in the Class Action lawsuit against Dana Point Harbor Partners’ (DPHP) excessive slip rates have filed a Petition with the California Supreme Court asking it to overturn the decision finding boaters do not have standing to enforce the contract requirement that DPHP charge only reasonably determined market rates for slip fees. Further, an appeal has been filed as to the Superior Court ruling that shockingly granted an attorney fees award against the three individually named Class Action Plaintiffs. These Plaintiffs are fellow boaters, doing their civic duty to challenge unfair and illegal violations of the DPHP’s obligations under the lease with the County. They stood up and spent many hours of their time to represent all slip renters.

Soon, we will make a special appeal for boaters’ assistance to help the brave Plaintiffs/boaters resist the attempt to intimidate those who challenge DPHP’s arbitrary and capricious actions.

Your support matters. The legal battle to protect fair slip rates has unexpectedly burdened the boaters who defended us all. These Plaintiffs acted in good faith, representing the collective voice of our harbor community. Now, they face not only legal obstacles but also personal costs. If you believe in opposing unfair practices and preserving our rights as boaters, please consider contributing to the legal fund. Every dollar helps defend a few individuals and the boating community. Stand with Fellow Boaters – Donate Now