Southport Sail & Power Squadron

04/10/2026

https://www.facebook.com/share/p/18XQk2Pepz/?mibextid=wwXIfr

Take this weekend to prep your boat.

Blessing of the Fleet is next weekend Sunday April 19th at 2:00 pm.

04/09/2026

Understanding Ship Navigation Lights – A Mariner’s Language at Night

At sea, ships don’t rely on signals or horns alone—navigation lights tell the full story of a vessel’s position and movement, especially in darkness or poor visibility.

🔴 Red Light (Port Side)
Positioned on the left side of the ship, the red light covers an arc of 112.5° from dead ahead to the port beam. If you see this light, it means you are viewing the vessel from its port side.

🟢 Green Light (Starboard Side)
Located on the right side, the green light also covers 112.5° from the bow to the starboard beam. Seeing green indicates the vessel’s starboard side is facing you.

⚪ White Light (Stern/Masthead)
White lights are used to indicate direction of travel—either from behind (stern light) or forward (masthead light).

How to Read the Situation:

Red + Green visible → Vessel is coming directly towards you

Only Red → Crossing from your right to left

Only Green → Crossing from your left to right

Only White → Vessel moving away from you

These light sectors are defined under International Maritime Organization rules and part of COLREGS, ensuring safe navigation.

In simple terms, these lights act like “traffic signals of the sea,” helping mariners avoid collisions and navigate safely through the night.

03/19/2026

https://www.waterwayguide.com/knowledge-center/news-post/12663/boaters-guide-to-north-carolina?utm_source=iContact&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=news&utm_content=News+2%2F25%2F2026

All Waterway Guide members are eligible to browse waterwayguide.com without ads. Simply log in to your Waterway Guide account to remove our ads from your browsing experience.

03/04/2026

https://www.facebook.com/share/18hV9qhDpv/?mibextid=wwXIfr

April 18, 2026 • RIDE THE TIDE

It is that time of year again for the annual Ride the Tide Community Float. This is such a fun community event. You don't want to miss out this year. The float starts at 39th Place West. Make sure to register to come paddle with us!

To register visit www.OakIslandNC.gov/PROGRAMS

02/16/2026

02/13/2026

District Attorney Jon David and DA candidate Jenna Earle

02/13/2026

SSPS hosted an engaging and informative evening featuring District Attorney Jon David and DA candidate Jenna Earley. DA David, who was elected in 2010 and serves the 13th District – comprising Brunswick, Bladen and Columbus Counties – is not seeking re-election. He has endorsed his assistant DA, Jenna Earley, expressing complete confidence in her ability to effectively step into the role and thrive.
DA David affirmed that Ms. Earley possesses exemplary prosecutorial skills, sound judgment and unwavering integrity, Earing has widespread respect within the DA’s office the courthouse and the broader judicial system. Ms. Earley also played a pivotal role during the American Fish Company incident in Southport, underscoring her expertise and commitment.
Ms. Earley emphasized that her extensive knowledge, proven track record and dedication set her apart from her opponent. Her goal is to transform thorough investigations into successful prosecutions.
A big thank you to JoAnne Klug for organizing such informative and engaging speakers for our monthly social meeting.

"Holly Hutchins"

02/13/2026

Southport Sail & Power Squadron has certified Vessel Safety Examiners can conduct the same safety check of your vessel that is performed by the Coast Guard Auxiliary or state maritime police and will be happy to discuss additional safety considerations with you. Successful completion of the safety check gives you a report and a decal that shows you passed the safety check and are safety conscious. This is not a boarding or a law enforcement issue. No citations will be or can be given as a result of this interaction between you and the Vessel Examiner. We will supply you with a copy of our vessel safety check so that you may follow some of the suggestions given. Vessels that pass will be able to display a distinctive VSC decal. This does not exempt you from a law enforcement boarding, but you can be prepared to make this a positive encounter.

Getting ready for a Vessel Safety Check (VSC)? 🚤
Make sure these 5 items are ready before your inspection so you’re set up for success. ✅

01/16/2026

Annual Meeting

The 2026 America’s Boating Club Annual Meeting agenda is now available. From education sessions to special events, there’s something for everyone in Myrtle Beach.

👉 Check out the agenda now and start planning your week! �https://portal.americasboatingclub.org/common/Uploaded%20files/NMC/OnAgenda26AM.pdf

01/16/2026

Southport Sail and Power Squadron’s Monthly Meeting
January 2026. This month the Southport Sail and Power Squadron (SSPS) hosted a delightful dinner and business meeting at the Southport Gourmet and Sushi Bar.

10/09/2025

October’s Monthly Social Meeting