Big Boat Day marks sign of spring ahead of weekend snowfall

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) – Sailors gathered at the Milwaukee Sailing Center on Friday for the annual Big Boat Day.

More than 20 boats were hoisted from their winter homes into the water by a 20-ton crane.

“This is pure joy,” Sailor Dan Wall said.

The event was held despite snow in the forecast for Saturday.

“It’s not uncommon for us to be teaching in flurries in May,” Milwaukee Sailing Center director Holly Church said. “Down here on the lakefront, you just never know. We are sailors, we’re flexible, we’ll go with it.”

Although the forecast isn’t ideal, the sailors are looking forward to a summer out on the water.

“When you clear the breakwater, it’s just you and the elements away from any other influences, it’s a beautiful thing,” Wall said.

The Milwaukee Sailing Center is holding its opening day on Saturday. Sailors will stay out on the water as long as the weather allows.