yacht in a pond

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Mission Bay Park Facilities

Model yacht pond.

The Model Yacht Pond is located on Vacation Isle, between Vacation Isle East and Vacation Isle West, just south of the Paradise Point Resort & Spa. The Pond itself is used for both sail and power model boats in races and regattas. The turf area south of the pond is a lovely area with plenty of shade trees and a fairly large grass area. The grass area is permitted for up to 100 people for picnics with no more than 1 inflatable. Food is allowed but no glass containers. Alcohol is not permitted. There are restrooms available on site.

The Model Yacht Pond Area is open from 4:00 a.m. to 2:00 a.m. From I-8 to the Sports Arena Blvd. exit, make a right onto West Mission Bay Drive and continue straight to Ingraham Street. Cross over 1 bridge then make a left at the stop light to West Vacation Road. Parking is free.

South Shores Park

South Shores Park is the closest park to SeaWorld. It is a small park mainly for boating purposes with a boat ramp and RV Dump. There is a small grassy area with a few picnic tables around the comfort stations. Park Patrons may park their vehicles at South Shores for 72 hours while they are out in their boats, but overnight camping is not allowed. There is only a handful of parking for vehicles with no trailers since the lot is mainly for vehicles with trailers. Food is allowed but no glass containers and alcohol is not permitted. There is also a bathroom on site.

South Shores Park is open from 4:00 a.m. to 2:00 a.m. From I-5, take the Sea World Drive exit and head southwest. The park is located before SeaWorld and has a large parking lot.

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What Is a Pond Yacht?

A pond yacht is a small, radio-controlled version of a large sailing vessel. Often built from the original drawings of a full-size ship, the pond yacht is a scale replica of a wind-powered ocean-goer that can provide hours of fun at a local park or backyard pond. Typically patterned after a single-mast vessel, there are occasionally two-masted pond yacht designs that can take a more skilled operator to effectively sail the small schooner across the water. Commonly built by the owner, these down-sized sailing vessels are equipped with electronic servos that operate both the rudder as well as the sail components and rigging.

Popularized in the 1920s and 1930s, pond yacht racing was a common sport in many city ponds and parks. The sport offered the participants a chance to display their sailing skills without requiring expensive sailing crafts, slips and maintenance fees. Unlike the original versions of the pond yacht that required the sailors to read the wind and set the vessel for a straight line run across the pond, the modern boats incorporate a remote-control option to adjust course as necessary. Some competitions require the boats to navigate through an obstacle course marked by buoys and floating flag stands.

While there are no specific measurements that must be adhered to when building a pond yacht for personal amusement, there are stringent dimensional requirements on both hull and sail size for those boats intended to compete in sanctioned races. Much like the Soap Box Derby®, organizations offer racing activities and pleasure sailing activities with points and seasonal trophies awarded to paid membership holders of specifically-built boats. Many clubs will allow the owner of a larger boat to sail with smaller boats, however, the larger pond yacht is not able to win prizes.

There are non-remote controlled versions of the pond yacht available to owners who prefer a more nostalgic boat as well as younger and entry-level boaters. The hand-control system uses a handle and strings attached to the boat to operate the vessel in a straight line from the shoreline. This type of boat requires the owner to walk the shoreline beside the boat as it sails along the pond. One of the primary advantages of the hand-line control is the ability of the owner to retrieve a boat that has succumbed to a no-wind situation. The hand-controlled pond yacht is often able to be upgraded to a remote-controlled boat with little work and expense.

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• By: Alexandr Vasilyev A pond yacht is a small, radio-controlled version of a large sailing vessel.

HOW TO START SAILING

Well done for visiting the Britannia Pond Yachts website. It is a good place to begin your journey of discovery into the world of model yachts.

How to find a model sailing yacht.

Starting out with sailing model yachts is easier than you think, there are plenty of second hand Star, Bowman and Skipper yachts available on auction sites like ebay or vintage sites like Etsy, there is even a Facebook Marketplace where yachts come up from time to time. Prices vary according to their condition, and vintage yachts are becoming very collectable with J. Alexander of Preston yachts commanding very high sums .

However the Star SY range are still reasonably priced and appear on ebay regularly the SY range are solid hull yachts that sail very well indeed for their size. The Star MK range are hollow and therefore lighter yachts these sail impeccably well. Bowman had a complicated range of yachts but their solid range of Admirals was the most commonly available and they do come up for sale from time to time, be prepared to pay a little more for a good Swift, Aquaplane, Gull or Heron.

Skipper yachts are still relatively modern and very good boxed examples appear from time to time these were made in Suffolk originally and range from 8 inches to 32, with a very nice 21 inch Yawl available for around the £100 mark. There are plenty of older vintage yacht types available but remember their sails and rigging may be delicate and need replacing. You may be lucky to stumble across a vintage racing yacht fitted with steering gear but whatever yacht you own it is true to say  the more you sail the more you will love the art of sailing.

Since the demise of Skipper there has not been another quality mass produced model yacht range available. However a small number of British artisan makers like Britannia Pond Yachts are out there, producing ranges of high quality yachts to sail.

What yacht to choose.

Firstly you need to consider how you are going to transport your yacht, if you use a motorcycle or the bus you will need a compact yacht that is easy to fold away and carry under the arm anything much over 18 inches becomes too hard to handle. If you use a small car then anything up to 25 inches is probably going to be alright but if going away on holiday this size of yacht may be too big to take. If you own a medium sized car then a 36 inch yacht is going to be about the biggest you will want to risk. For Marbleheads and 10 raters you are going to need an estate car and some help to get them in and out of the car let alone in the water. 

Yachts are not all designed to be racers with high aspect Marconi riggs that shoot across the yacht pond, although that is fun. There are plenty of other graceful yachts to choose from fitted with bowsprits and gaff rigs these yachts are classed as cruisers and they do everything in the utmost style and flamboyance.

When choosing a yacht think about where you are most likely to sail, a small pond like the one at Aldeburgh is only really suitable for smaller craft upto about 18 inches, whereas ponds like the round pond in Kensington is more suitable for much bigger yachts. Also think about the depth of water you will sail in, yachts with deep keels will need you to walk out into the pond wearing waders to launch them, whereas cutters with long shallower keels allow you launch them right at the water's edge.

A 1990's Suffolk made Skipper 12 inch Deben Estuary Pond Yacht

A 1930's 30 inch AJ Fisher type self steering racing yacht.

Where to sail, free sailing.

Yacht Ponds and boating lakes.

Where to sail can be a problem, safety should be paramount especially with young children who should be supervised at all at times. When introducing very young children to sailing model yachts it is best to find a raised pond like those at Aldebur gh near the Moot Hall and in the Croft, Sudbury, here you can free sail quite easily. Many parks have ponds and lakes but maturity of overhanging trees and shrubs often dictates that these ponds are only suitable for radio control or sailing using a tether. Some sites like Wicksteed Park in Kettering however do have speciall y designed yacht ponds where you can free sail small and large yachts alike. It is a question of going to look before hand to check the suitability of the yacht pond.

Village and town duck ponds are of course very handy some are in beautiful locations and are perfect for sailing  but only if they do not have steep banks and are not choked with bullrushes, using a tether is advisable if some of the banks are inaccessible. One renowned duck pond is Consols pond near St Ives in Cornwall this pond hosts an all comers sailing event every Good Friday this is a tradition that dates back over a hundred years!

The Seaside

Some seaside resorts provide outdoor swimming pools that fill when the tide comes in, the attraction with these pools is that the concrete edges act like break waters reducing the effect of crashing waves creating a virtual harbour providing a calm sailing experience. Smaller toy yachts can be sailed in rock pools or lagoons, but if you want to sail in the sea then you need to find a coast with a long shallow beach, such a beach will reduce the strength and height of the waves. It is best to find a section of tidal estuary like that near the car park in Kingsbridge, Devon. Your yacht should be washed down using tap water immediately after use as the corrosive action of sea water will cause the metal fittings to corrode.

Lakes are usually very overgrown with the water only accessible from swims made for anglers, they often have steep slippery banks, so they are usually best suited to radio controlled sailing they can be very large, with many obstructions that will impede free sailing, Such dangers are overhanging tree branches, tree roots, thick reed beds, thick Lily beds and islands. It is advisable to sail with a tether then you can at least pull your yacht from danger. Some lakes in parks do a hard standing and Tarmac paths at the water's edge the waters edge is sometimes better maintained, these lakes are more suitable if you are lucky enough to live near one.

Mill ponds can be accessible for sailing model yachts but be sure to ask the land owners permission some can be choked with cabbage weed and be too shallow, but you are certain of a beautiful location. Access may only be available from one bank so tethering your yacht would be sensible.

Sailing in a canal can be difficult if the water is difficult to reach and full of  narrow boats, however there is usually very little current and the banks are free from overhanging trees and bullrushes.

Sailing on rivers can be difficult not only can they have steep banks, but the banks can be unstable and slippery. Some rivers are too fast flowing and are too shallow to sail on, however some rivers like the Great Ouse flow very fast and are also very deep. If you fell in you would be swept away. If you do find a suitable river your yacht will of course have to contend with a current, a tether would be very advisable.

Swimming Pools

Swimming pools either outdoors or indoors provide a super place to sail at home the water is clean and blue, you can access the water from all points round the pool, indoor pools are  perfect for sailing in winter keeping you dry and warm, with added bonus of heated water.

Garden Ponds

If you are lucky enough to have a garden pond you can sail your yachts in the tranquility of your garden, just be careful not spook your goldfish. Garden ponds come in a variety of sizes some are ornamental whilst other have been made to support wildlife, either pond is suitable.

Paddling Pools

Paddling pools are usually inflatable, come in various sizes and some are often deep enough to sail small to medium sized yachts. Just be careful not to puncture the pool. 

Tin Baths and Butler Sinks

Some of us are not able to access a local pond suitable for sailing, but if you have a tin bath or an old Butler sink you can at least float your smaller yachts, in fact on Float Your Boat Day   you are encouraged to sail anything on or in anything that comes to hand whether a bucket or the bath. Float Your Boat Day is held on the 30th June each year and is held to remember the closure of the Star Yacht factory in Birkenhead near Liverpool. 

Sailing a Britannia Polestar on a Loch using a tether

Model Yacht Clubs.

If you are a beginner you could join a local model sailing club, you are then joining a support group of like minded experienced people that will help you get the best from your yacht, there are many model boat clubs up and down the country. Members have varied interests some are into radio control others just power boats but there will be someone that like you that just wants to free sail for fun.

The Vintage Model Yacht Group is also worth joining, you will then receive The Turning Pole ,  this publication is issued monthly you can read other members articles on racing yachts down to clockwork and rubbered powered toy boats. Along with latest news and items for sale. They have an excellent web site that is full of information.

A beautiful long keel 25 inch 1920's Suggs Cutter in as found condition, suitable for sailing in shallow water.

Sailing Your Yacht.

An in depth explanation of of this subject would cover many pages but here is a general outline of how to sail your new model yacht.

To sail your yacht successfully windward (into the wind) you will first need to trim your yacht, to do this you will need to haul the sails in on the horses/travellers or screw eyes by adjusting the bowsies on the sheeting cords. You should not tighten them so that the sails are not pulled dead flat but instead but a little loose so that they are able to fill with air and hence provide nice air flow over the sails.

Your model should sail to windward with both booms parrallel to each other when viewed from aft (stern). The luff of your sails should be as tight as you can get them as your model will not sail windward with a slack luff.

To run before the wind you will need to open up the sails so that the boom is allowed to swing almost square the mast, this is not possible on a lot of model yachts due to the way they are constructed, but let the boom swing as far as it will go. If your yacht has a rudder you can set less helm to help stop the yacht running off wind. With steering gear you can set the quadrant pins nearer to the centre of the quadrant or haul the sails in a little. If  your yacht turns or broaches into the wind then more helm must be given or you will need to ease the sails off a little. 

If your yacht self tacks (sails swing freely across the deck from side to side) then a turning pole is a handy addition to your outing as you can flick the bow of the yacht to turn and sail back across the pond. Older gaff rigged yachts will require you to lift the yacht out of the water before turning and swap around the sheeting holding the header sails, they usually have clew hooks fitted to help with this.

It will take several attempts before you learn how to get the best from your yacht, as we know from experience our weather  is never the same on any given two days, this challenge is in part what makes the art of sailing pond yachts such a rewarding and absorbing hobby. 

Cool San Diego Sights!

Colorful photos of San Diego places and events.

Fun sailing on Mission Bay’s model boat pond.

A silvery sheet of water near the center of Vacation Isle is where dreams take sail. Tiny dreams with tiny sails.

Today I took a long meandering walk about Mission Bay, and spent a fair amount of time lingering around what is simply called the model yacht pond. Connected to the bay with an underground pipe, the pond rises and falls with the ocean’s tides. The tranquil sheet of saltwater, surrounded by grass, trees and the many picnic benches of Vacation Isle Park, has been enjoyed by model boat hobbyists for over half a century.

A very cool club called the San Diego Argonauts utilizes the model yacht pond for radio control model boating and racing. Every Saturday morning, their Scale Boat Division runs electric and steam-powered craft on the pond. Many of the tiny vessels are remarkably detailed, even museum quality. One tiny tugboat even blew its horn at me while I took some photographs!

Saturday afternoons is when the wind-driven sailboats come out to compete or practice. The Sail Division of the San Diego Argonauts has many skippers who’ve won National Championships!

Today I saw so many sails at once, I could hardly believe it! The model yacht pond was the scene of a glorious regatta. These model boat sails tack by remote control, so racing around the tiny floating buoys requires many of the same strategies as racing a full-size sailboat!

On Sunday the pond features model power boats, which can reach speeds of 60 miles per hour! I’ll definitely have to check that out one weekend! I’ll take pictures!

Model boating is a fascinating, beautiful hobby to watch. I’ll bet it’s a lot of fun building a boat and watching it float across this magical pond!

Join me for more cool sights on Facebook and Twitter !

Do you like to read inspirational, thought-provoking fiction? Visit my Short Stories by Richard writing blog!

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Richard Schulte

Downtown San Diego has been my home for many years. My online activities reflect my love for writing, blogging, walking and photography. View all posts by Richard Schulte

15 thoughts on “Fun sailing on Mission Bay’s model boat pond.”

Well that is really cool! 🙂 ♥ ❤

Like Liked by 1 person

I’ve walked past the pond before, but this is the first time I’ve seen the boats on it!

Oh? That’s great you’re still discovering new cool sights in your city! San Diego seems like such a fun place to live 🙂 ♥ ❤

That’s amazing that they could adjust the sails to catch the wind, and steer…all from remote control.

It was really cool. All from a hand-held controller like people use for RC planes.

I don’t think I have been there since I was a little girl. I had completely forgotten that the pond existed. Thanks for the reminder!

You’re welcome! Did you see model boats there when you were little?

Yes, but they weren’t nearly so high tech. Just little wooden boats that (mostly) kids sailed.

When I was little I made tiny boats using a bottle cork, toothpick, square piece of paper, and a penny!

• Pingback: Photos of RC boats racing for San Diego Cup! – Cool San Diego Sights!
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Your article is such an inspiration! I feel like sailing again. Thanks! I bought a new Century boat last week and just can’t wait to go sailing on it. Would you mind if I add your article to my web directory? It would be a pleasure for me.

That would be fine! Have fun!

Hello Richard. I have many rc sailboats for the children to use their skills to race around the marks. I can send you some cool rc sailboat photos.

Sail fast, Louis C. A. Porro

Let me know next time you’re out there and I’ll try to come by and catch some of the action!

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Model Yacht Pond

Hello everyone! This is a friendly reminder that any of these fun places we may visit, we are a guest at. Please treat both businesses and trails with the utmost respect. We here at Hidden San Diego follow the 'Leave no Trace' mantra, meaning whatever you bring with you comes back with you. If you see trash on a trail, please do your part to help remove it. Remember, we are not picking up trash from another person but instead cleaning up for Mother Nature. Happy adventures!

2800 Ingraham St. San Diego, CA 92109

32.773184731, -117.237467799

Dog-Friendly:  Yes     Kid-Friendly:  Yes

Website     HOURS: 4AM-2AM daily

About Model Yacht Pond

I discovered Model Yacht Pond after stumbling upon a public body of water via Google Satellite one day. Determined to visit as many ponds and lakes as I can in San Diego County, I set out to visit it!

Everyone was friendly and happy to have me hang out and watch. This pond is located within a beautiful little nook right next to Vacation Isle.  This is a great starting point for a beautiful walk.  So many scenic points of interest in such a small area.

History of Model Yacht Pond

It turns out this pond has quite an extensive history, dating back to 1939! The pond was originally built into the Mission Bay master plan in 1939 as a continuation of a long standing program with the City Schools of San Diego of building Model Boats and competing between schools on the pond.

Once the club was formed the program was eventually cut off, by the Argonauts continued their gatherings.

In the 50’s both radio-controlled model boats at the Model Yacht Club shared the pond. With the demise of the San Diego Model Yacht Club, the Argonauts became the only organization using the pond and today considers the pond its home water.

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Important Registration Information - 2024 Registration

Build Your Own Plank Constructed Pond Yacht

A vintage marblehead-class pond yacht designed for radio control..

While growing up in western Pennsylvania, Bruce Richter spent countless hours in his dad’s workshop learning the ropes, building models, and making sawdust before getting sidetracked with garage bands, sports, and college. The urge to build returned around the time he and his wife Jan moved to New York City, although he quickly realized apartment living wasn’t exactly conducive to woodworking. The planets aligned when he discovered WoodenBoat School and Kerbs Boathouse in Central Park, home to over one hundred radio-control sailboats. Since then, Bruce took WoodenBoat School’s pond yacht construction course six times and served as former instructor Thom McLaughlin’s assistant before taking over as lead instructor a few years ago. Bruce has earned several national craftsmanship awards for the Vintage Marblehead RC sailboats he built at WBS. He is former Commodore of the 100-plus-year-old Central Park Model Yacht Club, has served as Class Coordinator of the US VMYG Vintage Marblehead fleet, is designer/art director of the vintage group’s publication The Model Yacht, and occasionally builds guitars. Following a career as a writer/creative director in major New York City advertising agencies and as president/executive creative director of his own marketing services firm, Bruce and wife Jan are beginning their next chapter in life as Blue Hill, Maine transplants.

This course is appropriate for students with some knowledge and experience. Basic knowledge and use of hand tools is required for most shop courses. Basic knowledge and ability to sail is required for most waterfront courses.

This course involves a low level of activity throughout the week including: occasional standing and working, seating is usually available, working on your own project at your own pace is common.

This is a six-day course ending Saturday

Other Sessions: September 1-7

Pond Yacht I: $385 (Includes CNC cut molds, strongback, keelson, planking, fin, and rudder.) Pond Yacht II: $169 (Includes materials to finish the boat other than sails, fittings and electronics.) Pond Yacht III:  $35 (Shop supplies to help you continue your project.)

In this course each student will begin the construction of his/her own pond sailboat using the plank on frame process. This practice is similar to those used in building full-sized boats and allows for a flowing hull form that is beautiful on display and swift on the water. The course boat NORUMBEGA was designed by former instructor Thom McLaughlin. The class of this boat is known as Vintage Marblehead (VM) and is still actively sailed today under the guidance of the U.S. Vintage Model Yacht Group. The Marblehead class of small boat originated in 1932 using minimal design requirements of 50″ LOA and 800 square inches of sail. When fully rigged the boat is over 7′ tall, which makes it quite impressive from shore. The boat can be easily dismantled for transport. Construction of this pond yacht will pleasantly challenge and inform the builder. While group and one-on-one instruction will take place daily, students will also make decisions based on blueprints and developing an eye for form. During this week, the boat will be planked, faired, and the fin and rudder will be fabricated. Bruce will also discuss the steps that follow to complete the boat—decking, rigging, electronic installation, and painting.

Students who have started construction of their VM model in previous years at WoodenBoat School are also welcome to participate in this course to finish their boat. This week will be an excellent opportunity for further guidance. It will also provide inspiration to those individuals just beginning their boat and to view firsthand the final steps in construction.

This course is appropriate for students with some knowledge and experience.  Basic knowledge and use of hand tools is required for most shop courses.

“Bruce Richter was an excellent instructor. He taught the pond yacht course in a knowledgeable, caring, and professional manner.”

T.S., Wilbraham, Massachusetts

“Bruce Richter taught a great course. I liked that he checked our work each evening and made note of our mistakes to correct the next day. He pulled together regular meetings to discuss theory. I especially enjoyed the pond yacht history lesson! Great teaching skills. Great personality and a sense of humor.”

J.J., Phoenix, Maryland

Register For This Course

Courses fill quickly, so don't delay if this is a course you want to take.

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Mission Bay Guide: Vacation Isle

San Diego’s Mission Bay is one of the city’s prime attractions.  There are all kinds of water-based activities and 27-miles of shoreline.  This is our guide to Vacation Isle located in the center of Mission Bay.

• Location: 1600 Vacation Rd, San Diego, CA 92109
• Parking: Large parking lots at Ski Beach. Smaller parking lots at North Cove Beach and Vacation Isle Park
• Facilities: Restrooms at Ski Beech and Vacation Isle Park
• Lifeguards: None
• Rentals: Paradise Point has a rental location. Ski Beach may have seasonal rentals.  Rental facilities also available directly across the bridge at Dana Landing by SeaWorld.

NOTE: Pictures in the original article were taken during summer 2020.  Updates include pictures taken during winter 2021 at low tide.

Jump Ahead To

Vacation Isle is a man-made island in the center of Mission Bay.  Ingraham Street runs through the middle and connects the island to Dana Landing and SeaWorld in the south and Crown Point/Pacific Beach in the north.

The island can be divided into four areas.  Ski Beach takes up the eastern half of the island with Paradise Point, North Cove Beach and Vacation Isle Park on the western half.  The entire island is less than half a mile in each direction.

As its name implies Ski Beach is a prime location for jet skiing and water skiing.  There is plenty of parking in the large parking lots where parking spaces are designed for vehicles with trailers.  Of course, there is a boat ramp.

The map here shows the water ski area .

This is also a great area for families with small children.  There are restrooms, plenty of grassy area and playgrounds.

The downside is that Ski Beach is designed primarily for motor sports.  This is not the place for swimming, paddle boarding or kayaking.  Very small children can wade into the water but that is about all.

North Cove Beach

North Cove Beach is one of the most secluded areas of Mission Bay.  The beach is located off a side street at the entrance to Paradise Point resort.

There is a small parking lot and the beach itself is fairly small.  However, it is generally not very crowded and the cove is away from the activity of Mission Bay.

Most of the horseshoe shaped beach area is part of the Paradise Point Resort beach area.

North Cove Beach is also a popular spot for fishing near the bridge that connects Vacation Isle to Crown Point.

Vacation Isle Park

Vacation Isle Park is a large grassy park in the southwest corner of Vacation Isle.  This is a great place for family picnics, but it is not a beach area.

The Model Yacht Pond or Model Boat Pond is a key feature of the area.  As the name implies it is a place to sail model boats.

Paradise Point Resort

Paradise Point Resort is one of San Diego’s most attractive lodging options.  The resort takes up much of the western end of Vacation Isle.

Paradise Point has several dining options.  The Barefoot Bar and Grill has always been a popular spot even for locals.

Additional Resources

For our full guide to Mission Bay go here .

For our guide to Mission Bay Beaches go here .

For hotel suggestions in the area check out our guide to Where to Stay in Central San Diego Beaches .

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Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve provides some of the best hiking opportunities in the city of San Diego.  This is our guide to Hiking Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve. Overview In 1959, a large area of San Diego was set aside as a 2, 000 acres state park, Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve.  This area…

Mission Bay Guide: Ventura Cove/Santa Barbara Cove

San Diego’s Mission Bay is one of the city’s prime attractions.  There are all kinds of water-based activities and 27-miles of shoreline.  This is our guide to Ventura Cove and Santa Barbara Cove area of Mission Bay. Location: 1000 W. Mission Bay Dr Parking: Free parking lot at Ventura Cove Beach and along Bahia Point…

San Diego Hikes: Lake Hodges Bicycle Pedestrian Bridge on Coast to Crest Trail

The David Kreitzer Lake Hodges Bicycle Pedestrian Bridge is along the Coast to Crest Trail.  There are many hiking opportunities in the area, but this is a short hike that crosses the bridge and provides excellent bird-watching opportunities. Starting Point:  19140 W Bernardo Dr OR 12655 Sunset Dr. Escondido, CA 92025 Length: 3 miles Elevation:…

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The classics.

RC Pond Yachts for Sale: A Beginner’s Guide

• By - Kyle Hilson
• Posted on November 14, 2023 November 15, 2023
• Posted in RC Boats

If you love sailing but live far away from the coast or a large body of water, an RC pond yacht might be the perfect solution. These miniature boats give you a taste of the experience of controlling a boat on the waves or in a lake without the need for a large body of water. They’re perfect for backyard ponds or small lakes near your home. Unlike full-sized boats, these models are lightweight and easy to transport, which allows you to take them wherever you go. RC pond yachts come in various sizes, ranging from 1 to 4 feet in length, allowing you to choose the one that suits your space and sailing needs. Some models also feature wind-powered sails to simulate real sailing, adding to the experience. If you’re new to RC pond yachts, there’s no need to worry; these boats are relatively easy to operate, and most come with simple controls that let you steer the boat around the water with ease. With the right model and a bit of practice, you can quickly become an expert skipper, mastering the wind and waves and enjoying everything that sailing has to offer.

Benefits of RC Pond Yachts

There are many benefits to owning an RC pond yacht for sale , including:

• Low maintenance costs compared to full-sized boats
• Relatively affordable price point for beginners
• Easy to transport and store
• Ability to operate alone or with friends for socializing
• Provides an excellent way to relax and de-stress

To get started with RC pond yachts for sale , there are a few models to choose from. The Pro Boat Ragazza 1 Meter RTR Sailboat is a popular choice, featuring a durable fiberglass hull and a 2.4GHz Spektrum radio system. Another great option is the Joysway Mad Flow F1 Brushless RC Boat, which offers a fast and nimble design that’s perfect for racing. RCPlanet.com and HobbyKing are popular online stores that offer a variety of RC pond yachts for sale models to choose from. Whichever model you choose, you’re sure to have a ton of fun sailing your boat in the pond or lake near your home.

How do you control a RC sailboat?

To control an RC sailboat, you need to use the transmitter channels and controls. For RC sailboat controls, the side channel typically used for throttle on an airplane controls the sails. You can draw the sail in or let it out by moving the left side stick vertically. The right-hand side stick controls the rudder on the RC sailboat. For more information on radio control, you can visit the Wikipedia page on Radio Control. Some products that can be helpful for controlling RC sailboats are the RC sailboat kits available on Amazon and hobbyist websites like Horizon Hobby.

Considerations When Choosing an RC Pond Yacht

When shopping for an RC pond yacht for sale , there are a few things to consider to ensure you find the right model for your needs. Some factors to keep in mind include:

• Size: Consider the size of the boat and the size of the pond you’ll be sailing in. A larger boat may be more difficult to maneuver in a smaller pond, for example.
• Materials: Look for boats made with high-quality materials, such as fiberglass , to ensure durability and longevity.
• Design: Consider the design of the boat and choose one that fits your style preferences. Some boats have a more classic look, while others have a modern, sleek design.
• Price: Decide on a budget before beginning your search to ensure you find a model that fits your price range.
• Accessories: Look for boats that come with all the necessary accessories like radio , receiver , batteries , and charger . Some boats also come ready-to-run (RTR) which means they are fully assembled and require little setup time.

It’s also important to note that some RC pond yachts can be customized with additional sails or graphics, so be sure to choose a model that can be modified to your liking. Additionally, there are a number of online forums and communities dedicated to RC pond yachts, where you can find tips, advice, and even meet other enthusiasts.

Below is a table comparing the specifications of two popular RC pond yacht models:

How to choose a yacht?

Choosing a yacht involves deciding the kind of motor yacht that will meet your needs, considering the amenities and narrowing down a size range. It is also important to try before you buy by conducting a sea trial. Working with a dealer or broker who understands your needs is helpful. It’s essential to set a budget and stick to it. Also, take a boating safety course before setting sail. For more information, check out yacht manufacturer websites or speak with a yacht dealer or broker.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, owning an RC pond yacht can be a fun and rewarding hobby for those who love sailing but don’t have access to a larger body of water. By considering the size, materials, design, price, and accessories of different models, you can find the perfect boat for your needs and preferences.

One great option for those just starting out with RC pond yachts is the Pro Boat Ragazza 1 Meter RTR Sailboat. This boat comes fully assembled and includes all necessary components like a 2.4GHz Spektrum DX2E radio, Li-Po battery, and charger. Plus, with its classic design and realistic sail, it provides an authentic sailing experience.

For those looking for a smaller, more maneuverable option, the Joysway Mad Flow F1 Brushless RC Boat is a great choice. This boat features a lightweight design and powerful brushless motor, making it ideal for racing and maneuvering.

Overall, there are a wide range of RC pond yachts available for purchase, each with their own unique features and capabilities. By doing your research and considering your needs and preferences, you’re sure to find the perfect model for a fun and exciting sailing experience in your local pond.

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The model yacht company specializes in buying, selling and restoring vintage model pond yachts  and model sailing yachts.

We offer a selection of restored, original and unrestored model yachts and steam boats.

We also sell marine art, maratime antiques, yachting photographs,  and broker the sale of good quality models boats on behalf of owners.

We undertake selective restorations of model yachts for clients.

Please contact us for further information.

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San Diego Argonauts

Dedicated to promoting radio control model boating and racing..

On March 24, 1959, a group of Model Boat enthusiasts emerged from among the customers of Lee’s Hobby Shop in San Diego. These modelers found they had a common interest in Radio Control. Some of the modelers, being Amateur Licensees, were well along in controlling their craft by radio. Others were seeking help and information. This common interest and the need for cooperation resulted in the founding of the San Diego Argonauts Radio Control Model Boat Club.

John “Doc” Hawes was elected the first Commodore on April 7, 1959. This was the first organization on the west coast devoted solely to radio control model boats. During the first years of the club, operation of the pond was shared with the San Diego Model Yacht Club on an alternate weekend basis.”

With the demise of the San Diego Model Yacht Club, the Argonauts became the only organization using the pond and today considers the pond its home water. In 1962 the field house at the pond became available and the club moved in. The original membership of the Argonauts consisted mostly of scale modelers running scratch- built and kit boats incorporating a great deal of detail, but “Plank Owner” William “Red” Blackford and a few others interested in speed provided research and incentive to the rest and now racing and speed are the primary interests. The members were competition minded from the outset, and the club was instrumental in pioneering contests and courses. These were primarily precision steering events and, for the few speed fans, the one and three lap oval speed events. Seeking a greater challenge, obstacle racing was introduced in 1961 and originally was divided into two events: Open and Cabin.

Throughout this period of development in the early 60’s, a few members insisted on running together (sometimes into each other), and by June 1964, this insistence had spread and culminated in the Argonauts first all boat Endurance Race, a one-hour event that met immediate enthusiasm and acceptance and has spread throughout R/C boating.

Model Sailing, which had been present since the beginning of the pond, was at first limited to “Vane Sailing” or Free Sailing in which the boats were prodded by a long stick from one end to the other. The original design and its east/west layout was made with sailing in mind from the beginning and proved one of the finest yacht basins anywhere. Initially Radio Control was applied to large ships and models due to the size of the radio components, but it didn’t take long for some adventuresome sailors to try them out on their model yachts. Many demonstrations took place; and in November of 1969, discussion centered on the formation of an Argonaut Sailing Team. There were five entries in the first Argonaut Sailboat Race for points held at Santee Lakes on March 29, 1970. The club alternated between Santee Lakes and the Model Yacht Basin.

As a pioneer organization in R/C boating, many of San Diego skippers have brought proud recognition to the Argonauts by achieving International and National Championship status. Let’s salute the men and women who over the past years, have given many hours of their time to make our club what it is today!

From March 1996 San Diego Argonauts’ Newsletter: History of the San Diego Argonauts-PDF

May 30th 2021

World Pond Yacht Day

A worldwide event.

Sunday, 26th May 2024

What  type of  yacht should i choose.

Firstly you need to consider how you are going to transport your yacht, if you use a motorcycle or the bus you will need a compact yacht that is easy to fold away and carry under the arm anything much over 18 inches becomes too hard to handle. If you use a small car then anything up to 25 inches is probably going to be all right but if going away on holiday this size of yacht may be too big to take. If you own a medium-sized car then a 36-inch yacht is going to be about the biggest you will want to risk. For Marblehead's and 10 raters, you are going to need an estate car and some help to get them in and out of the car let alone in the water. 

Not all yachts are designed as sleek racers with high aspect rigs that race across the yacht pond, although that is immense fun. There are plenty of other graceful yachts to choose from. Yachts fitted with bowsprits and gaff rigs are classed as cruisers and they do everything in the utmost style and flamboyance.

When choosing a yacht think about where you are most likely to sail, a small raised pond like the one at Aldeburgh is only really suitable for smaller craft up to about 20 inches, whereas ponds like the round pond in Kensington is more suitable for much bigger yachts. Also, think about the depth of water you will sail in, yachts with deep keels will require you to walk out into the pond wearing waders to launch them, whereas cutters with long shallow keels allow you to launch them right at the water's edge.

A Star Endeavour being launched at the pond edge

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Man dies after driving backward off boat ramp into Concord Pond; police investigating

A 72-year-old man from Baltimore died Monday night after his truck sank into Concord Pond near Seaford, according to Delaware State Police.

The man's name has not yet been released.

The man was backing down the Concord Pond boat ramp in a Nissan Frontier pickup truck to load a canoe at 5:29 p.m., police said. He lost control of the truck "for reasons still under investigation," according to police, and drove backward into the water.

Rescue crews were able to free the man from the truck, which was submerged in the water, police said. He was taken to the hospital, where he later died.

Police are asking anyone who witnessed the crash to contact Senior Cpl. J. Smith at 302-703-3267 or call Delaware Crime Stoppers at 800-847-3333.

MORE: Wilmington police unveil new Partners in Care program to address mental health crises

Send story tips or ideas to Hannah Edelman at [email protected]. For more reporting, follow them on X at  @h_edelman.

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Stocking Fish in PA Ponds Now Requires Notification of Fish and Boat Commission

Stocking Fish - Photo from Flickr

The Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission (PFBC) is now required to be notified when fish are stocked in Pennsylvania. This Notice of Stocking (NOS) to the PA Fish and Boat Commission is needed for both flowing and non-flowing water on public and private property.  This includes private pond owners who plan to stock fish in their own private pond along with anyone else who wishes to introduce fish into the waters of the Commonwealth. 

The purpose of this new requirement is to help address the growing challenges brought on by aquatic invasive species and threats to fish health and Pennsylvania's waterbodies. The NOS form helps PFBC track the number, species, and location of fish being introduced to Pennsylvania's waters. Information needed to complete an NOS include applicant name and address, associated PFBC Cooperative Nursery (if applicable), stocking location name and location, size of stocking area, stocking date range, number of stocking events, fish species, fish size(s), and approximate number or pounds of fish, as well as information about where fish were obtained.  Keep in mind that fish from outside of Pennsylvania may not be stocked into a watershed of the Commonwealth without separate written permission.  Additionally, fish species are limited to those listed on the PFBC’s Species by Watershed Approved for Open System Propagation and Introduction list . 

A NOS is not needed for some activities including when using baitfish on a hook for fishing, when stocking an ornamental pond that is an aesthetic landscape feature that has closed water circulation and no risk of contacting the waters of the Commonwealth, for stocking triploid grass carp that have been allowed by the triploid grass carp permit , or for stocking waters contained within a property or premise of a propagation facility licensed under the PA Aquaculture Development Law.

At this time, there is no cost to submit a NOS, but a NOS needs to be completed prior to any stocking events.  If multiple fish introductions are planned for the same waterbody in a single calendar year, they may be documented on a single NOS form.  Forms can be submitted either online or using a paper form.  Forms, instructions, and additional information are available on the PFBC’s notice of stocking webpage .

Reviewed by Dave Nihart, Chief of the Division of Fisheries Management, Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission

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• Water testing and treatment
• Nutrient Management Planning
• Agricultural Water Issues
• Pond management
• Stormwater Management

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Planned Outage for Some Cornell Lab Services

Several Cornell Lab of Ornithology services will be unavailable beginning March 19 through 6:00 a.m. U.S. Eastern time on March 21 . This is a one-time disruption while we migrate more than 1.6 billion eBird observations and additional project data to new servers. After the move, our websites will have improved reliability, stability, and room to grow. Thank you for your understanding during this outage.

Don’t worry, your data (checklists, media, Bird Academy courses, Merlin life list, etc.) will be safe during the migration and will be unaffected when we come back online.

Unavailable: The following websites and services will be down during this period:

• eBird.org , including eBird portals, eBird Alerts, the eBird API, eBird Science, and data downloads
• Macaulay Library
• Birds of the World

Partially affected: Several Cornell Lab projects will remain up but services that require a login will be unavailable:

• Bird Academy login and store will be unavailable. Users will be able to access most course materials if they were logged in to the site before the outage. Snap ID quizzes will not function during the outage.
• NestWatch and Project FeederWatch login and data entry will be unavailable both on the website and the app. Please record your data on paper and enter it after the outage ends.
• eBird Mobile app : The Explore and My eBird functions will not work during the outage. You can use the app to create checklists and then submit them after the outage ends. Your eBird data will be safe.
• Merlin Bird ID app : Sound ID will continue to work, as well as Photo ID, Step-by-Step, and Explore, using your recent locations only. You will not be able to save sightings, refresh your life list, update your location, or log in to your account. These functions will return when the outage ends and your data will be safe.

Unaffected: The following sites will continue to function as normal:

• Cornell Lab of Ornithology institutional website
• All About Birds
• Cornell Lab YouTube channel

What Can I Do During the Outage?

Go out birding.

• If you already have Merlin Bird ID app installed, you can still use it for some purposes. Though you won’t be able to update your location, save sightings, or refresh your life list, the ID functions will still work with your saved locations, and you can still browse species using Explore Birds
• If you already have the eBird Mobile app installed on your device, you can start eBird Mobile checklists during the downtime and submit them once eBird is back online. Learn how to Enter Sightings with eBird Mobile

Explore Birds Online

• Read about science, conservation, and birdwatching on All About Birds and in our magazine, Living Bird
• Watch wild birds live on Cornell Lab Bird Cams
• Browse our natural history films on the Cornell Lab YouTube channel
• Watch recorded webinars on everything from Merlin tips and tricks, to feeding birds at home, to conversations with scientists, and more

Stay Connected

• Watch for status updates on our Facebook and Instagram channels
• Join us for two days of fun activities on the  @Team_eBird Instagram  account
• Have some fun by sharing your “life without eBird” on social media. If you’re missing your live eBird access during this outage, share how you’re coping with the hashtag #eBirdLife. We’ll be right there with you!

Join Our Email List

The Cornell Lab will send you updates about birds, birding, and opportunities to help bird conservation. Sign up for email and don’t miss a thing!

Golden-cheeked Warbler by  Bryan Calk/Macaulay Library