Hi, Dana Point Boater,

Welcome to this edition of our Boaters Association newsletter—your go-to source for the latest developments shaping our harbor community. In this issue, we plan to spotlight a new appraisal study to determine fair market rates, bring you important news about the Coastal Commission’s recent decision against raising mooring fees in Newport Harbor, and sound the horn about upcoming Regatta events on February 15^th and 16th, hosted by the Dana West Yacht Club, and February 22^nd and 23^rd, sponsored by Dana Point Yacht Club. We also await the decision on a pending appeal that could influence the outcome of the boaters’ class action lawsuit. Finally, we’ll shine a light on our Boater of the Month. So, grab a life jacket—we have plenty of valuable information on deck to keep you afloat and informed! Enjoy the read, and as always, thank you for being part of our boating family!

Fair Market Appraisal Underway: Boaters’ Voices Reach County Supervisors

In response to the outcry over steep slip fee increases in Dana Point Harbor, the County of Orange has commissioned an outside appraisal to determine fair market rates. Thanks to concerned boaters and county residents, officials want to examine existing costs more closely to ensure they reflect actual market conditions.

Click here to view the official subordinate contract for the Real Estate Appraisal Services Fair Market Rental Value Study for Dana Point Harbor Boat Slip Rates by R. P. Laurain & Associates. This development marks a significant step toward transparent and equitable pricing for our boating community.

Continue to voice your opinion and write to your local county Supervisor.

#dpboaters

Set Sail at the 95th Annual SCYA Midwinter Regatta

Races hosted by Dana West Yacht Club on February 15^th and 16^th for the Nonspin classes events and by Dana Point Yacht Club on February 22^nd and 23^rd for the PHRF Spinnaker classes are open for registration. All sailors may join the DWYC’s casual event by racing in the Beginner, Intermediate, or Advanced division. A short white-board talk on Saturday morning precedes the race, with radio communications on the water and the option to use your engine if needed. Mark your calendar and join the fun! For more information and registration, visit the race websites: Dana West Yacht Club events here: https://www.regattanetwork.com/event/28907 and Dana Point Yacht Club events here: https://www.regattanetwork.com/event/28907. While registering, remember to order your regatta gear for you and your crew!

News from Our Neighbor: Newport Beach Mooring Fees Increase on Hold

Up the coast, Newport Beach recently sought to raise mooring fees to better match market rates and recoup harbor maintenance costs. However, the California Coastal Commission rejected the proposal, placing any potential changes on hold until the State Lands Commission can review the plan further. If you’d like more details about the happenings in our northern neighbor, check out the Orange County Register article published on February 7.

Sea Smarts: Essential Boater Know-How

Beginning in 2025, every California boater must hold a valid CA Boater’s License. Not certified yet? On March 1, Eric Gritzmacher, Public Education Officer for the USCG Auxiliary in Dana Point, will host a one-day class granting you the California Boaters Card upon completion. Mark your calendar, and click here for details and registration. It’s the perfect opportunity to stay safe and compliant on the water!

Pending Appeal Update: Your Support Matters More Than Ever

We’re on the verge of a critical ruling in boaters class action appeal—anticipated within the next 45 days—and we remain hopeful for a favorable outcome. Meanwhile, legal costs continue to rise. Your contribution to our legal fund is needed to sustain our efforts and secure fair treatment for boaters everywhere. Click here to donate now and help keep our cause afloat!

Closing Remarks

As we wrap up this edition of At the Helm—Stay Afloat & Informed, remember that even when tides shift, and winds change, our boating community remains anchored in camaraderie and determination. We hope these updates spark new ideas, keep you informed, and remind you of the uniqueness and beauty of our harbor. Thank you for being part of our maritime family, and we look forward to sharing more stories, insights, and fun events in the months ahead.

“The pessimist complains about the wind; the optimist expects it to change; the realist adjusts the sails.”

Adjust your sails, enjoy the journey, and we’ll catch you on the next wave!

Dana Point Boaters Association thanks you for your help and dedication to improving our home port marina experience. Feel free to fly your I'm All In Flag (special class legal fund donation.

In the meantime, please continue to submit your comments on slip rate increases and other subjects by Click Here.

All donations are private, and your identity will never be shared

Your Dana Point Boaters Association Directors, Advisors, and Advocacy Members Thanks You For Your Support!

From: Victoria Winters, Secretary | (949) 485-5656 | Email Us! | #DPBA Website