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Chesapeake Boating Club at J/Port
Sailing Sharing Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)



What is the J/Port Sailing Club?

The Chesapeake Boating Club was originally created in 1992 and was called the J/Port Sailing Club. It was conceived as a way to provide easy access to sailboats for the graduates of the J World Sailing School and other sailors who needed an affordable way to go sailing on short notice and at a fraction of the cost of ownership. Within a short time it evolved to its present form as the area's most innovative way to GO SAILING!

How does the club work?

Annual membership of the Chesapeake Boating Club’s sailing program consists of 2 levels. Level 1 gives you unlimited sailing on the club’s 8 J/80 26-foot daysailor. Level 2 gives you access to the club’s 3 J/32’s, 3 J/105’s and 8 J/80’s. Level 2 allows you to enjoy unlimited sailing on short notice and 14 days of guaranteed reserved times. 

 Try our Demo Member Account to see how the flex scheduler works.

Why should I join the club?

JPSC works because we have great Club Members, great boats, an easy format, and, economical pricing when compared to boat ownership. We are committed to making the Club grow and change according to the needs of its Members. As a member, you have access to our fleet of boats for your personal use, as well as Racing opportunities (as skipper or crew), Cruise/Rally events, Frostbite Racing (November-March), and lots of other Club Social events.

Is the Club like a timeshare?

Sort of… the Club allows you access to our fleet of 14 J/Boats. But, unlike a real estate timeshare you share the use of the boats with other members instead of being a part owner of just one boat giving you much more availability and variety.

How much does it cost to join the club?

SAIL AND POWER SHARING CLUB GENERAL INFORMATION

INITIATION FEE (FOR ALL MEMBERS): $800

This orientation fee is a one-time charge.
SECURITY DEPOSIT: $200
SEA TOW INSURANCE: $65
Mandatory annual fee. Member coverage while onboard Club boats.

MEMBERSHIP IS LIMITED: As more boats are added to our fleet, more memberships become available. Our ration is 10 members per boat figured on a yearly average.

All memberships are valid for one (1) year from contract date.

CHECK OUT RIDE: Every member must be checked out on each boat type and prove to be proficient, prior to being allowed to make a reservation. Additional training is available.

DISCOUNTS: Graduates of the J/World Performance Sailing School qualify for special discounts when joining the JPSC. Ask us about our current offer
 
CHESAPEAKE BOAT CLUB
ONE YEAR MEMBERSHIP FEE: $5,840
TWO YEAR MEMBERSHIP FEE: $10,460
Partial-Day, Full-Day and/or Multi-Day use.
Member receives 100 Points per year toward the scheduling of use of an Albin 28.

FUEL CHARGE: $Current market rate per engine hour used.
The points calendar and details of the powerboat rules can be found at www.jportannapolis.com
 
J PORT SAILING CLUB
LEVEL 1 ANNUAL FEE: $2,665
Unlimited use of J/80s.
LEVEL 1 MIDWEEK FEE: $2,090
Unlimited use of J/80 Monday through Friday.
LEVEL 2 ONE YEAR MEMBERSHIP FEE: $5,840
LEVEL 2 TWO YEAR MEMBERSHIP FEE: $10,460
Unlimited standby use of all sailing club boats plus 14 days per year of guaranteed reserve time aboard a J/105 and/or J/32.
 
COMBINATION SAIL & POWER OPTIONS
OPTION 1: $5,840
75 Points on Albin 28 and unlimited use of J/80s - weekday only
OPTION 2: $6,995
100 Points on Albin 28 and full Level 1 Membership.
OPTION 3: $8,730
100 Points on Albin 28 and full Level 2 Membership.
* Additional check out fee will apply for each boat added if not already qualified.

Who are the club members?

Our club members are from the tri- state area with varying sailing experience ranging from J/World learn-to-sail alumni to cruising world travelers. We would be happy to provide with a list of members that you can speak with.

How many members do you have?

MEMBERSHIP IS LIMITED: We have limited membership per Membership Level. Our ratio is 10 members per boat figured on a yearly average. As more boats are added to our fleet, more memberships become available.

When is the best time to join the club?

All memberships are valid for one (1) year from contract start date. That means anytime is the best time to join and start having fun.

Do I need to know how to sail?

All members must have at least a Basic Keelboat certification or equal experience. Level 2 members must have some cruising experience to include navigation, etc. Many members have taken advantage of J/World and scheduled private lessons on our J/105s and J/32s.

How do I get checked out on a particular boat?

CHECK OUT RIDE: Every Member must be checked out on each boat type and prove to be proficient, prior to being allowed to make a reservation. Only those Club Members who prove, through an interview and an on-the-water demonstration, to be immediately, independently seaworthy may qualify to take boats out without further training.

Can I get sailing lessons?

J/WORLD ANNAPOLIS: J/Port is also home to J/World Annapolis Performance Sailing School, named 'Best' sailing school in America! We have introduced many new sailors to the sport and have grown to encompass corporate sailing programs as well as local racing teams. The Club is a perfect opportunity to keep up and expand your sailing skills after you complete one of J/World's certification courses.

Who can I bring? Do I have family membership?

You can bring your own crew or use the on-line Member or Crew List Directory to find a sailing partner. Whoever signs the contract and completes the boat checkouts is the official member and must be onboard at all times.

Can I charter a boat for a whole day?

No. The Club works because we have limited membership and all our members have been checked out on our boats. Our members also take pride in the condition of the fleet and are courteous to other club members to help maintain the boats…Practice the Golden Rule.

Does the club provide an opportunity to race?

The Chesapeake Boat ing Club offers racing programs so that members can meet each other and become better sailors. Racing is a great way to improve your skills, learn about the spinnaker and meet other club members. Here are some opportunities the club offers: 

Summer Thursday Night racing is the most popular and competitive racing series of the year. The series runs from May thru August. The boats leave the dock around 6PM for a short sail out to Horn Point. Three short races are scheduled, with spinnakers, and the racing is usually very exciting. The club organizes crews and Skippers. And you can plan to return by sundown to a social at J/Port sponsored by us and J/World. 

Friday Night races are sponsored by Eastport Yacht Club. This series is a good time to try skippering a boat for racing as practice for the Thursday Night series. EYC schedules about 10 evenings in this summer series. Members pay EYC registration fee and schedule their own boat and crew. 

Non-J/Club sponsored racing events require permission and skipper qualification to participate. Paul or Kevin will make the final decision. An additional 'Race' fee and security deposit is required. Other conditions may apply.

Does the club offer social events in addition to sailing?

The Club organizes year round social activities open to all Club members and their family and friends. J/Port is an excellent meeting place to make new friends, find a crew, skipper or drinking partner, and expand your sailing knowledge. All activities whether on land or on the water are publicized thru the website 'Recent News' Updates and emailed directly to all members. Most events are free of charge to all current members. Here is a list of past and future events to look forward to: 
• Open Houses & Demos
• Sunset and Full Moon Cruises
• Clinics and Seminars (Spinnaker Handling, Rules seminars, Racing and Cruising seminars)
• Holiday parties and parade participation
• Flotilla Vacation Cruises in islands

Where is J/Port?

J/Port is conveniently located on Back Creek on Eastern Avenue between 2nd and 3rd Street in Eastport…just a stones throw from the Severn River/Chesapeake Bay and great local watering holes for after sailing activities!

What boats will I have access to?

J/Port maintains a fleet of high quality J/boats. 

Level 1 members have unlimited access to eight J/80's which is a 26'sport boat equipped with outboard engine , roller furling jib and asymmetrical spinnaker. It is great for family casual day sailing or one-design racing. 

Level 2 members also have unlimited access to fleet of J/80's in addition to three J/105's - J/Boat’s legendary fast and responsive 34'er perfect for day sailing or over-nighting on the Chesapeake; and three J/32's - the ideal cruising "J" for couples and families with exhilarating performance and ease of sailing. For more information on specifications lick on to http://www.chesapeakewebgroup.com/CBC08/Sail/JPort_Fleet/Index.html

What is a "Check Out" ride and how long does it last?

Before members have access on-line to boat in reservation calendar all members are scheduled for a 'Check Out'. This process covers all the systems of the boats, docking procedures and policies as well as gives you some expert pointers in boat use and sail performance.

Can I single-hand or solo sail the boats?

The J/80 fleet is rigged to solo sail. The roller furling jib and steady helm allow members to sail short-handed. Also, the J/80s sail great with just the main when windy or your hands are busy with cheese and crackers!! New members take advantage of 'Sailing Partner' Directory to find willing and capable crew.

Can I learn to use a spinnaker on the boats?

The Summer Race Series is a great opportunity to learn and improve your spinnaker skills. Our talented staff is ready and available to check out you and your crew when you're ready to try it on your own. Any spinnaker damage is not covered under the insurance policy and member is 100% liable for repair or replacement.

Are there different levels of club membership?

J/PORT offers two different levels of membership to fit your skill level, sailing intentions and budget. Level 1 Membership is designed for daysailing and racing J/80's. Level 2 Membership gives you access to our larger cruising boats; J/32's and J/105's and J/28 as well. 


* LEVEL 1: Year round unlimited sailing 
* Reservations are divided in to 3 slots per day, 7 days a week. 
* Session Sailing times are: 


Slot 1 (Dawn to 1pm), 
Slot 2 (1pm-5pm), 
Slot 3 (5pm to Dusk) 
* On midweek days you can choose 1, 2 or all 3 slots. 
* On weekends and holidays only 1 slot can be reserved each day. 
* Reserve boats up to seven days in advance 


* LEVEL 2: Unlimited Sailing, Plus Members have the option of using their 14 days of 'Advanced Reserved' time on Level 2 boats to plan cruises to further explore and enjoy the Chesapeake. 


* Unlimited Standby days (reservations made within 24 hours of sailing for full day reservation or by Monday of same week for J105 midweek session). 


* Level 2 Members also have access to J/80's, (Level 1 reservation policy for J/80's applies). 


* Level 2 members should have Basic Cruising certification or equivalent training/sailing resume. 




Check-outs are required on each class of boat, for all Members, Level 1 and Level 2 (included in one-time Orientation Fee).

Are discounts available for J/World Annapolis alumni?

DISCOUNTS: Graduates of the J/World Performance Sailing School qualify for special discounts when joining the JPSC. Ask us about our current offer!

Can I start a membership at mid-season?

All memberships are valid for one (1) year from contract start date/check out. L2 Members 14 reserve credits days are valid for full year contract. Credits do not roll over into next renewal contract period.

When is the sailing season at J/Port?

J/Port operates all year long. 

• Winter hours (December thru March) are Monday thru Friday, 10am - 4pm. All reservations must be made during office hours so staff is alerted to boat re-winterization and weather conditions can be assessed for safety.

• J80s and J105s are in the water throughout the year. The J105s' water and head systems get winterized generally December thru March.

• There is a re-winterization fee of $25 for utilization of J105's after the engines have been winterized for extreme cold temperatures.

• J32s are winterized and off-the-schedule generally December thru March as weather permits.

• Any damage to boats during off season is the members' responsibility. Cold weather sailing is not normal wear and tear on boats and equipment.

• The J/Club fleet will be limited to the dock if there is any ice on the Creek. Contact the office if you have any doubts.

• For your safety, J Port Sailing Club boats will not be released if the wind chill factor is below 35 degrees. Check the wind chill online at weather.com or contact the office before you go sailing.

Are there any fees beyond the club dues?

There are no other usage fees other than your annual membership fee for usage. 
* See offseason sailing. Members are just responsible for running expenses (such as, fuel, pump-out, food, pilotage, port charges and provisions and supplies for himself and crew). 


* All disposable items on the boats are your responsibility - Paper towels, toilet paper, etc. is not supplied by the Club. Plan to bring your own. 
Fuel usage on Level 2 boats is based on the Honor System - Please fill the tank after substantial consumption. No Level 2 boats' fuel tank should be returned left under ½ full. 

Can I cruise for more than two weekends per year?

Level 2 Members can use the boats more than 2 weekends. The 2 weekend limit is for reservations made more than a week ahead of time. If a Level 2 Member reserves a boat for the weekend, anytime starting from the Monday preceding that weekend, then it will not count towards the 2 weekend restriction. (It will count as one of your 14 days of reserved time.)

Am I covered by insurance while sailing?

J/Port, Inc. agrees to provide the following insurance: JPSC yachts, charter boat owners, its' agents, members, guests, officers, directors, employees and volunteers, shall be insured against fire, marine, and collision risks with $1,000,000 protection and indemnity coverage. MEMBER agrees to indemnify and save J/PORT ant its' agents harmless for any liabilities occasioned by the negligence or default of the MEMBER except to the extent that such liability is covered by insurance. 


Watercraft and Equipment. Coverage for damage to the yacht and its equipment. The deductible amount is: J/80 & J/28 - $500, J/105 - $1,000, J/32 - $1,500 and Albin 28 - $1,000. 

Liability. The MEMBER is liable for the full amount of the deductible toward which the security deposit will be applied, and agrees to pay damage in excess of the security deposit up to the deductible amount within fourteen days of the insured loss. In the event of loss, accident, breakdown, or disaster the MEMBER shall give immediate notice to J/PORT. The MEMBER is responsible for the consequences of any unauthorized repair.

Can I talk to existing members?

Feel free to check out some testimonials from club members listed on our website. We can arrange for you to contact some of our members.

Can I upgrade to a Level 2 membership at mid-season?

Yes. You will be refunded for your unused portion of your L1 membership which can be credited to your upgrade membership fee. Your new membership will start at this time and reserve days go into affect for the new year's contract.

I have never used an outboard engine...

No problem. Most new L1 members do not have motoring experience. Our staff will work with you and your team to assure your confidence under power. L2 members can schedule private auxiliary power helmsmanship lessons with J/World or a private captain.

How do I reserve a boat?

The club has a very extensive on-line reservation system that is very easy to understand and allows you to have complete control over when you want to sail. 

• To Access Reservations: Check out "Demo a Club Account" to enter your personal user name and password.

• Click Member Log-In in left navigation, use login button, click to continue.

• Go to J Port Sailing Club Page for your personal information and reservations.

• Check your information for accuracy - especially the number of weekends and days on your account, renewal date, boats that you are checked out on, and any future reservations. Personal bios and pictures help other members get to know you and find crew.

Here are some helpful hints: 
• Some answers to Frequently Asked Questions about making reservations and boat use: The system is programmed to block out any reservation or procedure that is not legal for your membership level or contract.

• If your membership is not current you will be locked out. You will start getting a warning that your membership renewal is coming up 30 days prior to that date.

• In order to make reservations ahead of your current year; you will have to make your payments current through that time period.

Members looking for sailing partner or to share sailing time should take advantage of the Member Directory and Crew List.

Can I reserve a boat over the phone?

Give us a call at 410.280.8602 and one of our full time staff will be at your service.

What if I need crew?

Take advantage of the Member Online Sailing Partner Directory (for members only). Both Level 1 and Level 2 members have been finding crew to 'play hooky', practice spinnaker handling, and even share cruising experiences. Whether you are a skipper looking for another hand and/or member looking for an opportunity to learn, the online Partner Crew List is your answer. 

It is an easy way to find a sailing partner quickly via emailing the entire Crew List with one click and a simple message: Let's Go Sailing! 

You make the boat reservation 
• Send email with details/time

• Interested crew respond via email or phone

• Review respondents bios and select your crew

• Meet at J/Port

Go sailing with willing AND capable crew!

How do I join the Club Sailing Partner list?

In your Membership Manager: Click on 'Edit my Information' 
1) Fill out Bio. Make it appropriate for others to know your availability, skill level, etc. 
2) Check 'Add me to the Crew List Directory' 
3) Need Photo of yourself 

• Download picture file yourself (approximately 320x240 pixels), or

• Email picture file to Kevin@jportannapolis.com

• Send photo to J/Port via mail, or

• Get digital picture taken at J/Port on your next visit.

** You need all three items for the website to post you on the List.

Can I cancel a reservation? Will I lose points?

The Web reservation system takes a look at each reservation and either credits or debits your "account" accordingly based on when you cancel. You can cancel your reservation at any time online from your 'Membership Manager'. Just click on the trashcan next to the reservation to cancel your reservation. 
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