The first issue of Pacific Yachting was published in July of 1968. The editor was Don Tyrell, a veteran newsman who later became publisher and editor of the well-known newsprint tabloid Boating News. The first cover showed Paul Côté’s 35' Brandlmayr-designed and Spencer-built sloop Jeneusse under spinnaker during that year’s Swiftsure Lightship Classic.

 In Don Tyrell’s editorial comment, he stressed the need for more mooring facilities in B.C., noting: “Pacific Yachting Journal [as it was originally known] will do all in its power to help in the fight for new marinas and facilities. We welcome any comments or suggestions on how the buck-passing politicians can be goaded into acting instead of talking on marinas.” Ironically, here we are 40 years later facing the same battle.

The premier issue also featured an in-depth article on cruising Howe Sound (by Doug Sutherland), boating safety, Ferro cement yacht construction, the Vancouver Power Squadron’s piloting competition, photography tips from then photo editor James A. McVie and more. New boat reviews were the Peter Hatfield-designed Discovery 47 and a 31' Grenfell Sports Fishermen. Wood was still the preferred boatbuilding material, but fibreglass was making inroads.

New products included a handheld “Seafix” radio direction finder and a Sportyak dinghy for $135. Eno’s Custom Boats, Geoff Coleman Yacht Sales, Calgan Marine, Miller Sails and Spilsbury & Tindall were among the advertisers. In the classified section, Otter Cove Marina on North Pender Island—including floats, four acres of waterfront, gas float and tanks—was for sale for $65,000.