Overview

Cerritos Bahia Yacht Club (CerBYC) is a hidden gem located behind the Golden Sails Hotel on Pacific Coast Highway. Established informally in 1965 and officially in 1968, the club offers a unique marina experience for boating enthusiasts. Accessing the marina requires navigating under the Joan Von Blom memorial bridge, making it essential for members to either have a power boat or the ability to step their mast.

Life member and staff commodore Lenny Arkinstall resides at the marina with his pet chicken, Nugget. The club has a rich history and a close-knit community where members share stories and camaraderie.

Key details

  • Cerritos Bahia Yacht Club is located behind the Golden Sails Hotel on Pacific Coast Highway.
  • Access to the marina requires navigating under the Joan Von Blom memorial bridge.
  • Boaters need to own a power boat or be able to step their mast to enter the marina.
  • Lenny Arkinstall, a life member and staff commodore, lives aboard the marina with his pet chicken.
  • The club was informally founded in 1965 and officially established in 1968.
  • The idea for the club originated from a group of men gathered around a fire pit.
  • The first commodore was Scoot Sooner.
  • CerBYC has approximately 200 members, with 95% being power boaters and 5% sailors.
  • The club features a dining area, bar, and kitchen facilities.
  • New members are welcomed with sponsorship from a current member and must own a boat.
  • The initiation fee is $150, with annual dues also set at $150.
  • The club has a reputation for winning awards in the Naples Boat Parade and was featured in Life Magazine in the 1970s for rescuing sky divers.

Context

CerBYC is described by Arkinstall as a “Red Neck Yacht Club,” emphasizing its historical significance and the friendly, informal atmosphere that fosters lasting friendships among members.

What happens next

The club continues to welcome new members, encouraging those interested in joining to reach out to current members for sponsorship and to enjoy the community spirit and activities that CerBYC offers.

What we don't know yet

Details about the specific activities and events held at the club, as well as the current membership demographics beyond the power/sail ratio, are not confirmed.