In 1956, a few local boaters were looking for training. The closest they could find was the Canadian Power Squadron in Vancouver . With the help of Squadron members, a class was organized in Nanaimo for that winter, with local Master Mariner Captain “Bert” Davis as the first instructor.
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15 people passed the exam in the spring of 1957 sparking more interest in a local CPS squadron. The group applied and the official launch of Nanaimo CPS took place April 12, 1957. Ours was the first Power Squadron on Vancouver Island and the third in BC.
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By 1959 Nanaimo Squadron membership had grown to 35 and by the end of 1960 we boasted a membership of 70. Over the next 6 years our membership grew rapidly, hitting the 100 mark in 1967. Today we have more than 500 members.
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There are many milestones in our history. In 1960 members set up the first measured mile in Northumberland Channel. 1961 saw the start of the Lubber Line – the newsletter we still enjoy today. Howard Tyrell was the first editor.
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Our burgee is set on a blue background with a red stripe representing the bright red wooden walkway between the lighthouse and shore that existed at that time. In those days it was a well-known symbol for Nanaimo .
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Over the short years of Nanaimo CPS history, hundreds of boaters have taken training courses provided by our very experienced and skilled volunteer trainers.
We are proud to have helped so many people stay safe on the water and our primary goal today is still training boaters so they have fun – and get home safely.
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