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Some thought the owners of classic yachts had lost their marbles to want to own an original yacht or launch a few years ago but now they are some of the most admired and recognisable boats in New Zealand.
The Classic Yacht Association of New Zealand will celebrate their 25th anniversary on August 22 and all members, both past and present, are welcome.
It was meant to be in May last year but Covid-19 dealt to those plans so a celebration lunch, to be hosted by Peter Montgomery, will be held at the Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron.
In the early 1990s the 'old clunkers' were changing hands for very little money. The friends of these wannabe custodians looked at them as if they had lost their marbles and were busily counselling them to enjoy recreational sailing on some other vessel, any vessel other than a tired old yacht.
But the efforts of a determined few saw the establishment of the CYANZ at a meeting at the Ponsonby Cruising Club on May 8, 1995.
Twenty-three custodians of old yachts gathered that night and, within a very short time, there were 50 expressions of interest in participating in an association. There are now 360 members.
Tickets cost $55 per person and include a complimentary glass of wine and a two-course lunch. Please RSVP with numbers to admin@classicyacht.org.nz by August 13 or buy tickets here
