Hi, and Happy Holidays, Boater,

Boat Parade of Lights

The holiday season sparkled brighter than ever during this year’s Dana Point Boat Parade of Lights, where creativity and camaraderie illuminated the harbor. Among the many dazzling entries, one captured the harbor’s attention with its exceptional spirit and participation.



Join us in celebrating vessel number #93, this year’s Dana Point Boaters Association Spirit Award winner, who brought pure joy to the holiday season aboard their small powerboat. Though modest in decorations, their vibrant enthusiasm and sheer delight illuminated the harbor, reminding everyone that the true magic of the season lies in the joy we share. Congratulations, and thank you for making this season exceptional!

Meet our Boater of the Month: Sue



This month, the Dana Point Boaters Association proudly celebrates Sue Griesbach, a remarkable woman who embodies skill, perseverance, and passion both on and off the water. As captain of her sailboat, Tomol, since 2013, she commands her crew with precision and determination. She races weekly in the highly competitive Thursday afternoon regattas, called the Farkle, and until recently, on about 25 weekends a year, from Santa Barbara to Ensenada.

Sue’s connection to sailing runs deep, beginning her racing journey with her father as a young teen in Madison, Wisconsin, over 50 years ago. She mastered her skills and developed a lifelong passion for the sport by competing on a small boat in a lake. Her dedication and expertise led to the prestigious Yachtswoman Excellence award (“Yachtswoman of the Year”) from the Yacht Racing Union of Southern California in 2018, honoring her performance as a regional racing skipper. Serving on the executive board of PHRF SoCal since 2017, Sue plays a vital role in governing sailboat racing for recreational boats in Southern California. As a licensed U.S. Coast Guard captain, she navigates leadership and competition confidently and skillfully. Now taking on the role of 2025 Race Chair for Dana West Yacht Club, Sue’s influence continues to inspire and elevate the local sailing community.

But Sue's talents extend far beyond the water. As a competitive cyclist in the late 1980s and early 1990s, she set three American records and captured four national championships as a member of the U.S. Cycling Team. Simultaneously competing as a professional triathlete, she placed third in the U.S. Long Course Championships (one-half Ironman distance) and received All-American status from a leading triathlon magazine. Sue shares her life at home with her husband of 43 years, Bob. Together, they create a partnership as enduring as her love for racing.

Sue continues to surprise and charm off the racecourse with her curiosity and creativity. Known for her adventurous spirit, she experiments to find her favorite mixed drink as a mixologist, proving that her quest for discovery and fun knows no bounds.

Sue Griesbach embodies a beacon of excellence, inspiring all who know her or watch her compete. Her journey reminds us of the power of passion, discipline, and a willingness to embrace new challenges. Applauds to Sue, our Boater of the Month, whose story adds a vibrant sail to the tapestry of Dana Point’s boating community!

Boater Tales - Harbor Serenade: A Sea Lion, Lights, and Laughter

What Do a Sea Lion, Harbor Lights, and a Kiss Have in Common?

One serene evening in the harbor, the gentle lap of water against hulls and the occasional clink of a halyard created a perfect backdrop for what unfolded. The harbor lights twinkled like stars reflected on the water, painting a fairy-tale scene.

As we strolled along the dock, hand in hand, something unusual caught our attention. A boisterous sea lion claimed the bow of a nearby sailboat as its stage, barking enthusiastically to an audience of none. Its performance radiated an unexpected charm, almost... romantic.

Meanwhile, the harbor lights flickered just enough to give the illusion of winking at us, hinting at some grand, cosmic joke.

Just as we leaned in for a spontaneous kiss, the sea lion unleashed an ear-piercing ARR-ARR that shattered the stillness and sent us stumbling back in surprise. Laughter burst forth, replacing the kiss. To our amazement, the sea lion dove into the water and swam in a perfect heart-shaped arc around the bow of our sailboat before disappearing into the depths. The playful display felt like a sign, a reminder that love and laughter intertwine, even in the quirkiest moments.

So, what connects a sea lion, harbor lights, and a kiss? A magical night in the harbor—where anything can happen and surprises wait just around the corner.

During the holiday season, may your days sparkle with laughter, your nights shimmer with magic, and your hearts overflow with love. Throw a kiss to the wind, let your spirit set sail, and shout out a cheer!

Happy holidays from all of us at the Dana Point Boaters Association!

P.S. The Dana Point Boaters Association works tirelessly to advocate for boaters, share valuable stories and information, and assist with questions to ensure your time on the water remains enjoyable and hassle-free. Your support helps us continue this vital work for our boating community. Please consider donating today to keep these services afloat—every contribution makes a difference!

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From: Victoria Winters, Secretary | (949) 485-5656 | Email Us! | #DPBA Website