Royal Palm Yacht Club

Change of Watch

September 29th 2007

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Mother Nature has her way, but the RPYC Fleet adapts!

Traditions Ashore & Afloat

By Ellen Schneider

The last weekend in September is celebration time at Royal Palm Yacht Club, when its traditional Change of Watch takes place. This weekend-long event is when members say thanks to the outgoing commodore and directors, and welcome the new “watch.” The installation ceremony takes place on Saturday evening, and the traditional Fleet Review by the new commodore and his officers is the culmination of events on Sunday.

A highlight of the weekend is the Fleet Review, a parade of decorated boats along the Caloosahatchee, which is much anticipated by members. Planning for the Fleet Review begins early, and it is a precisely planned and orchestrated event – moving more than 20 boats of various types and sizes in and out of the club harbor is a task not to be taken lightly!

The traditional Installation Ceremony itself followed age-old naval traditions. After the JRROTC Color Guard presented the colors, the outgoing commodore and officers were thanked for their efforts during the past year, and the incoming commodore and officers were given their new insignia and flags of office.

But by the end of the evening, the winds were already rising. What would tomorrow bring? It was on the shoulders of the new officers to make a decision: to parade, or not! .. check out the 61st Inaugural Fleet Review for the answer and photos ..