Welcome to the Power Squad of the San Francisco Model Yacht Club. We power boaters are extremely proud to call Spreckels Lake our “Home Waters.”
The majority of the scale power boats operated by San Francisco Model Yacht Club(SFMYC) Members are either steam or electric powered. The Club also has a special category for internal combustion(IC) scale models called 'Classical Gas'. As dedicated model boat builders, who are interested in realism in our modeling activities, we operate our model yachts, regardless of their motive power, at the appropriate scale speed and well within the sound(decibel) and actual speed limits posted at our Home Lake. Our members do not operate gas-powered, high-speed model boats at Spreckels Lake. If they desire to operate such models, they must do it away from Golden Gate Park, on larger bodies of water, designated to handle the noise and speed of such craft.
To prevent model boats from losing control as a result of radio frequency interference, the Club uses a Frequency Control Board and Electronic Transmitter Monitors. This insures that only one member at time can use a specific transmitter frequency for safe model operation. San Francisco's Recreation and Parks Department controls the use of Spreckels Lake for model boating operation. Therefore, in accordance with Park Code 3.02, the maximum legal Speed Limit for model boats, of all types, on Spreckels Lake is 15 Miles Per Hour; and the maximum noise level for internal combustion(IC) boat engines is 60db, measured 50feet from shore. Additionally, all IC powered models(operated by SFMYC Members) must have an electronic 'Fail Safe' installed, in the onboard radio compartment, to prevent any unforeseen loss of control issues by the boat operator.
Additionally, the SFMYC has a specialty class of IC powered model yachts that are called 'Classical Gas'. This class runs on the last Sunday of each month, in conjunction with the scale steam and electric powered yachts. These are scale model boats(or replicas thereof), that were originally built in the 30's, 40's and 50's, and constructed by past SFMYC Members to run at Spreckels Lake. The rules for operating these historic models strictly conform to the speed and noise regulations adopted by the SF Recreation and Parks Department; and like all of the Club's other power yachts, they operate as scale models that cruise on the Lake at safe and scale speeds. The Members of the SFMYC observe all Local and State Laws pertaining to the operation of their model boats, and do so in the interests of overall safety.
Each year the Power Squad hosts special events. You’re invited to participate or just sit back and watch these unique shows. They include:
Tug Boat and Barge Pull: An entire weekend of individual and team events, demonstrating the skilled driving required as these high powered tugs and pusher boats navigate intricate maneuvering courses and obstacles just like the real ones.
All Fishing Boat Regatta:; A fun day devoted to San Francisco’s long and colorful maritime history. You can see regional classic models such as Monterey Clippers, east coast Lobster Boats and many other working riggers and trawlers. Participants and spectators are amazed at the exquisite details of these craft.
Springer Limited Competition: It’s non-stop action as these teams of little push boats go head to head in water polo and figure-8 competitions. Hulls and power systems are all identical, so this competition is a true test of driving skills.
Classical Gas Group: This is an opportunity to see vintage craft such as cabin cruisers and runabouts powered by gasoline engines. Many of these models are exquisite, scratch-built mahogany boats. It’s a must see for all “woody” fans.
Click here for an article on the history and restoration of Margie,a Gas Powered Wooden Boat.
Wooden Boats On Parade: Held every other year, this is the largest model boating show on the West Coast. It is a non-competitive exhibit, open to all static and radio-control models, power and sail. The show provides a relaxed atmosphere for craftsmen to come together to learn and expand their modeling talents. It’s an event for beginners just getting started in the hobby and for talented master craftsmen. Hundreds of boats are displayed at lakeside and in the clubhouse. Many of these models are highly detailed museum quality, so it’s a show you do not want to miss.
These fun events are open to all model boaters, so check the schedule on the website for dates and times.
While enjoying Spreckels Lake, here are some of the “Rules of the Road” as required by the city:
Aquatic birds and wildlife always have the right of way. Be careful.
The lake has a continuous pedestrian walking path around it. The water level of the lake is even with the walking path. Pedestrians always have the right of way, so be careful about getting your boat too close to shore at high speeds.
Power models run on the South side of the lake. Be sure to check your frequency with other boaters on the lake before turning your transmitter on.
Spreckels Lake is shared by all classes of boats. Below are the running times:
Slower Electric and Steam Power Models run on Mondays, Wednesdays and Sundays from 9:00am to 1:00pm. (You can run on Tuesdays Thursdays and Saturdays with gas and fuel boats, but only in non-used areas of the lake close to shore. Gas and fuel boats have the right of way on these days, so be cautious and courteous.)
Fast Gasoline and Fuel (nitro-methane) Power Models run only on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays from 10:00am to 1:00pm. Spreckels Lake has residential neighbors to the north, and both gas and fuel boats must be muffled to meet the city’s noise requirement of 60dcb at 50 feet from the meter on shore. Because the walking path surrounding the lake is level with the water, it is not advisable to run very high-powered speed boats. With this risk, if your personal insurance (homeowners) does not cover accidents caused by model boats, it may be advisable to obtain specific liability insurance thru organizations such as the North America Model Boating Association (NAMBA).
Sailboats run from 1:00pm to 4:00pm every day. Sailboats always have the right of way over power boats when on the water.
Power Squadron 
