Apr 15, 2025

In 1969, a group of enthusiasts of vintage wooden power boats decided to form an association to perpetuate their interests: the Classic Yacht Association (CYA) was born. In 2009, a group of classic boat owners organized to form our own Canadian Fleet. The CYA now consists of six fleets throughout North America with member vessels from Hawaii to the East Coast of the Canada & USA.

“We recognize the critical importance of trades in preserving our fleets. Recent research shows that almost 4,000 boats in British Columbia are over 50 years old, and 73 are over a hundred years old,“ says Commodore William (Bill) Noon. To pass on these skills, the 2024 CYA Canadian Fleet agreed to fund an annual scholarship for marine trades. This support encourages individuals to get involved in the industry and help preserve our floating heritage. “The BC Marine Service Technician (MST) Journeyperson Qualification at Quadrant Marine aligns perfectly with our goals. The award will go to a student who demonstrates academic and professional excellence throughout their training.”

This inaugural award goes to Kristi Gregory, owner of Liquid Metal Marine. “Four years ago, I enrolled in the Marine Service Technician course offered by Quadrant Marine Institute,” says Kristi. “I did so for many reasons including a curiosity about what was being taught and how the program would fit with my new employees working in a custom boatbuilding business.  The program was well done, and I enjoyed learning the foundations of so many areas outside the scope of my daily work.”

When meeting at Kristi’s boatbuilding shop for a tour. Bill and Kristi had much more in common than might be expected of a classic wooden boat enthusiast and a modern aluminum boatbuilder. “I was not surprised to learn she works closely with a couple of my friends and wooden boat enthusiasts” says Bill. “Kristi also has two young apprentices up and coming in her shop, so this year’s winner is a great fit for this award.”

Kristi had already put her funds to good use. “[When] I learned I was the recipient of the Classic Yacht Associations new bursary. I decided to use the funds to invest in a new toolbox so that general shop tools could be kept separate. This allowed me to offer one of my new apprentices the used toolbox, a fantastic way to start adding to his tool collection while learning skills within our trade.  Thank you to the members of the Classic Yacht Association.”

CYA is dedicated to encouraging the restoration, preservation and maintenance of fine old power-driven pleasure craft. The organization has a mandate to promote awareness and appreciation of classic yachts.