Public Events, Lectures & Educational Classes
We run a lively calendar of public lectures and classes — many free and open to the community — taught by experts and club members. Topics include:
Boating Safety, Navigation & Weather (in partnership with the US Coast Guard Auxiliary - Flotilla 708)
Lighthouses, autonomous sailboats, and local maritime history
Sailing and seamanship
Race Ambassador Program: classroom and on-the-water mentorship to help new racers learn rules, strategy, crew roles, and gain hands-on experience. A fun way to meet fellow members and jump into a proud 150+ year racing tradition.
See What's Happening
Boys & Girls Club of Northern RI Day of Boating!
Back for a second year after a hugely successful debut, we are again partners with the Boys & Girls Club of Northern RI to give camp kids a safe, memorable day on the water. Volunteers with boats will provide brief, supervised bay rides for campers—who loved the experience last year—followed by lunch on the RIYC lawn. Join us to help make this year even better.
July 24 from 11-2
FREE Vessel Safety Check
A Vessel Safety Check (VSC) is is a free, 15 to 30 minute safety check-walkthrough of your boat, paddle-craft, or personal watercraft which will be conducted by our friends from the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary.
100% Free & No Penalties!
If your vessel fails, you are simply given a written list of corrections without any fines or reports.
Why Receive a Vessel Safety Check?
Safety! The peace of mind that your boat meets federal safety standards and that in an emergency you will have the necessary equipment to save lives and summon help.
–AND successful inspections earn you an official USCG/Auxiliary decal. Displaying this often reduces the likelihood of random on-water boardings by Harbor Patrol or the Coast Guard.
Paddle Craft Essentials & Safety
An interactive session for kayakers, paddle boarders, and small craft enthusiast.
Navigation Rules Refresher
Practical review of the Rules of the Road to keep navigation skills sharp. Free; registration required — April 16, 6:30–9:00 PM.
Race Ambassador Program
Spring race mentorship program—classroom and on‑water coaching to help new racers gain skills and confidence. $25 suggested donation; registration required.
Weather & Boating — Forecasting for Safer Decisions
Learn to read marine forecasts and turn weather info into safer go/no‑go decisions. Free, in-depth session with the RIYC Educational Foundation & USCG Auxiliary — registration required.