I have forgotten my password. How do I get logged in?
- On the logon screen click on the button with “Forgot my Username/Password”
- You will be asked for the email and first name associated with your membership.
- You will be sent an email containing your user name and a temporary password.
- Logon using the temporary password and then you will be required to change it.
- You can also contact treasurer@venicesailingsquadron.org but I can only verify your email address as listed and send a password reset email.For security reasons, administrators do not have access to anyone’s password.
What is the Venice Sailing Squadron?
A comic once said, "If the sea calls, hang up! In 1973, a group of Venice area sailors didn't hang up - they organized the Venice Sailing Squadron (VSS) to promote sailing, seamanship, and navigation. Today, with nearly ninety memberships, the Venice Sailing Squadron is among one of the most active sailing organizations in the Southwest Florida area.
What are the goals of the organization?
The goal of the Venice Sailing Squadron is to promote sailing, seamanship and navigation. Sailing is all about having fun!
What activities are available?
The Venice Sailing Squadron sponsors many activities including racing, cruising, day sailing, and social activities.
Do I have to own a boat to be a member?
No. You do not need to own a boat to be a member of the Venice Sailing Squadron. Many of our members that have boats are very gracious in providing an opportunity for other members to come aboard their boats for various activities such as cruising, racing or day sailing.
Do you offer sailing instruction?
Sorry, the Venice Sailing Squadron does not offer sailing instruction. You don't have to know how to sail to be a member. Many of our members that have boats will gladly show you the "ropes" to get you started.
Private sailing lessons are offered by the Venice Youth Boating Association (VYBA). For more information see their website at veniceyouthboating.com.
The Bitter Ends and the Sarasota Luffing Lassies are women only programs that teach sailing to women. They sail small boats, mostly Optis and Sunfish for the Ends and mostly Sunfish in Sarasota.
If you are interested in learning something about operating a cruising type keel boat, then Sara Bay (sarabaysailing.com) or more casual instruction from someone local might do. Sara Bay offers certificates which can help if you plan on chartering in the future.
If you are interested in youth sailing, The Venice Youth Boating Association (VYBA) is a non-profit sailing organization that has been teaching young sailors in the safe waters of Roberts Bay for over 50 years. You can get more information at their website at: veniceyouthboating.com.
Do you have a racing program?
Yes. We have a highly active racing program. We sponsor buoy races and distance races every Saturday. In between our racing program, some of our members participate in other races in Sarasota and Punta Gorda.
Do I have to know how to race to participate in the racing activities?
No. It would be nice to have everyone know how to race, but we realize that not everyone has had an opportunity to enjoy that aspect of sailing. We encourage everyone to participate, and we always have room on race days for anyone who wants to either pull a line or go along for the ride.
How about cruising?
We have an active cruising program. Southwest Florida is a great cruising location and Venice is a jumping off point to many cruising grounds to the North or South. During the cruising season, October through May, we typically have an organized cruise of 2,3,6,10 days once a month. Several of our members are long-range cruisers that go to the Bahamas from Venice.
Do I have to have a boat to participate in the cruising program?
No. During the season, we usually have several cruise destinations that can be reached by car within a 1-2 hour or less driving time. These cruises afford members without boats to attend the dock/land activities during the cruise. And, of course, there are those cruisers that take other members along with them.
How much does it cost to be a member?
Dues are $100.00 annually. Club member benefits include organized cruising, racing, potluck dinners, newsletters, web site communications, various parties, and club/inter-club activities. Some of the social activities such as the "Steak and Sail" in October, and our Change of Watch (COW) in May are provided at little additional cost above the $100 annual family dues.
How often do you meet?
The Venice Sailing Squadron meets every 2nd Wednesday of the month from September through May.
Where do you meet?
The Venice Sailing Squadron meets at Harbor Lights, 167 N. Tamiami Trail, Venice, FL 34282.
How do I sign up?
Click the New Member Signup tab on the Home page. Fill in the necessary information and pay immediately using a credit card or pay later by check or cash. If choosing to pay later, membership becomes active once an administrator receives payment and updates the site.
How can I get more information?
Click the membership tab on the Home page to join.