Who we are

York Sail & Power Squadron (YSPS) is one of 450 squadrons that make up the United States Power Squadrons® (USPS). YSPS is located in York, Pennsylvania and is one of 38 squadrons in District 5, which serves the east central states in the vicinity of the Chesapeake Bay. The national USPS organization that has over 60,000 members was organized in 1914. USPS is a non-profit educational organization dedicated to making boating safer and more enjoyable by teaching classes in seamanship, navigation and related subjects. Our members are boating families who contribute to their communities by promoting safe boating through education. We enjoy participation with our fellow members on the water and in the classroom. USPS is America’s largest non-profit boating organization and has been honored by three US Presidents for civic contributions.

York Sail & Power Squadron (YSPS)

The York Power Squadron began in the spring of 1965 with 20 members and three past Commanders. Members from Susquehannock split and the York Power Squadron was formed with Ray Melato, AP as the unit’s first Commander. At the time of the York Power Squadron’s formation, most of the members both nationally and in York were power boaters. Over the years the emphasis has shifted, and now about ½ of the members are sail boaters, so the name was changed to the York Sail & Power Squadron. YSPS now has approximately 100 members who meet once a month for meetings and/or social functions throughout the year.

We offer safe boating courses on a regular basis to boaters in the York area. These courses are open to the public and there is no age limit for participants. Successfully completing a USPS boating safety course meets the educational requirements for boat operation in most states.

In cooperation with the US Coast Guard Auxiliary, squadron members who are trained Vessel Safety Examiners conduct courtesy Vessel Safety Checks of boats at the request of their owners.

Why Join York Sail & Power Squadron?

    > To continue your boating education

    > To participate in civic activities that contribute to boating safety

    > To enjoy the fellowship of other boaters

As a USPS member you are given the opportunity to save on boat insurance. And there are many marine insurance companies that provide discounts to those who complete advanced boating courses offered to members of YSPS/USPS.

As a member you will automatically receive the District’s "Mark 5" and the national publication, "The Ensign," giving you more information on the district and national level.

As a USPS member, you and your family can enroll in a great variety of advanced grades and elective courses that are only available to USPS members. These courses include: Seamanship, Piloting, Advanced Piloting, Junior Navigation, Senior Navigation, Cruise Planning, Engine Maintenance, Marine Electronics, Sail, and Weather.

Our social events include: a family picnic and auction, navigation contest, crab feed, holiday party, dinner meetings, an annual frostbite cruise, plus various rendezvous and cruises.