FROM THE HELM

By Mike Benjamin, SV Exodus, President SDSA

FLY YOUR BURGEE

One of the best parts about being a member of the Salty Dawgs is the camaraderie of fellow members.  I’ve written in the past about our amazing community and how interacting with fellow cruisers is not just fun, but is critical when you need help, both technically and emotionally.  This life can be frustrating at times, (think, breakdowns, broken moorings, ciguatera, breakdowns, bad weather, breakdowns…) and Ronna and I find that when we are at our lowest, the support of fellow cruisers gets us through.  

So, how do you build your community?  I think being seen by fellow Dawgs is a good first step.  Although I urge everyone to branch out and befriend fellow cruisers who are not Dawgs, it’s certainly easier to break the ice with fellow members.

That’s why I’ve begun an initiative to encourage and motivate all Salty Dawg members to always fly their Burgees, to be seen by other members. 

My goal is for every member to fly their Burgee.  So, to get started, when you sign up for a rally, you can simultaneously purchase a Burgee at a $10 discount.  In addition, very soon, we will have a group of roving “Ambassadors” who will each have a supply of Burgees aboard their boats.  This group will include board members, rally and port captains and other leaders.  You will be able to identify these members in two ways.  First, they will be flying an Ambassador Burgee that is distinctive from our regular Burgee which will look like this:

Second, when you view your member map or rally tracking map on your laptop or on the mobile App, Ambassadors will be shown with this unique icon designating their boats:

If you see either, you will know that he or she will have a supply of Burgees aboard for purchase (no cash needed) and will be able to answer your membership questions and assist you with any issues or questions relating to the Dawgs.  You are guaranteed that they will greet you, welcome you warmly, and assist in any way they can.  Of course you can also purchase your burgee through our online store.  Click here.

Now there is no excuse not to proudly fly your membership Burgee and be recognized by fellow members, whether you are cruising the Caribbean or the Maritimes or anywhere in between or sailing on other continents.  I hope that this initiative will be a significant contributor to building our community and promoting friendships and camaraderie.   See you out there!

Return to Newsletter Landing Page