Cruising Club of America
The Cruising Club of America (CCA) issues the Blue Water Medal.
History
It was launched in the winter of 1921-1922 by a handful of experienced offshore sailors interested in cruising and the development of the cruising type of yacht.
The Club's more than 1,200 members personify the interests, achievement, experience, and love and respect for the sea of the Club's founders. Now in its 85th year, the CCA continues to use the collective wisdom and experience of its members to influence the "adventurous use of the sea" through efforts to elevate good seamanship, the design of seaworthy yachts, safe yachting procedures and environmental awareness.
The Cruising Club of America has no clubhouse or shoreside base, and no paid staff. Rather, the Club is structured around national committees that conduct mission-related work and manage the administrative operations of the organization, and around geographical Stations that provide regional focus for the membership.
Primary mission-focused committees include Safety at Sea, Offshore Communications, Technical, Environment, Cruising Guides and Charts, Bermuda Race, and Awards. The Club is managed by a Governing Board of Officers and elected members, and operated by standing committees including Finance, Audit, Nominating, and Membership, to name but a few.
There are eleven Stations within the Club, each of which has its own Rear Commodore and officers, and which organize annual activities. Membership is by invitation.