Santa Cruz and East Bay Kick Off 2023 Lighted Boat Parade Season

By Monica Grant | December 4, 2023 | San Francisco Bay Area |

Each year, at around this time, we scan the Bay at night for the colorful lights that sailors string up through their rigging. And we’re never disappointed. To add to the fun, yacht clubs throughout the land organize their members into parades that bring the lights to everyone within reach of the waterways. This year’s Lighted Boat Parade season has kicked off in Santa Cruz and the East Bay!

Edward Stancil from Santa Cruz was watching the parade on Saturday night and managed to get some photos and video of the lighted boats.

Now, that’s a lit boat!
© 2023 Edward Stancil

Heading out to join the fleet.
© 2023 Edward Stancil

Doesn’t matter where you sit, the show is everywhere!
© 2023 Edward Stancil

Here’s Edward’s video:

Saturday was also the night of the 47th Annual Lighted Yacht Parade hosted by Encinal and Oakland Yacht Clubs. We reached out to Steve Ingram and Allie Hawkins from Bay Lights Charters, who dressed up their boat, Gaslight, and took 35 guests aboard for an evening of merriment and fun.

*Gaslight* waits patiently for her guests ahead of the parade.
© 2023 Allie Hawkins

Frosty, Santa, and the Gingerbread Man had the best view from aboard this classic Bay Area scow.
© 2023 Allie Hawkins

Dressing up was encouraged for all the guests aboard, among whom was the Alameda Chamber of Commerce president. (Not saying they’re the ones in the bunny suit …)
© 2023 Allie Hawkins

It was a great family night for all!
© 2023 Allie Hawkins

Are you joining one of the upcoming lighted boat parades? Send us your pics: [email protected]

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