There may be a waiting list for boat slips at Belle Haven Marina, but there is plenty of room for people who want to rent sailboats and kayaks or take a sailing class.
People found this out last weekend, when George Stevens, owner of Belle Haven Marina, hosted the second annual National Marina Day. Guests enjoyed free sailboat, canoe, kayak and rowboat rides. They got to watch a sailing class in session and watch a group prepare to embark for the beginning of its two-day sailing class.
Chip Johnston has run the sailing program for years and, with the help of his assistants, Jotis Brown and James Gaffney, had several Flying Scot sailboats ready to go.
Over by the boat ramp, a group of Young Marines were waiting to go fishing with bass guide Steve Chaconas.
Before they left, they received boating safety lessons from Northern Virginia Sail and Power Squadron volunteers Elwood Sheetz and Elaine Colen, and Suzanne Malone. When they were done with their lesson, they boarded bass boats manned by Rob Grike, Nickie Buckley, Mike Branham, Derek Moyer, Lee Blount and Steve Chaconas.
These fishermen and women represent Regent 1 and 9 of the Virginia Bass Federation; John Odenkirk from the Virginia Department of Game of Fish was also there to lend a hand.
For more information about Belle Haven Marina, call 703-768-0018.