Worth It To Join A Cruising Association?

[TheCruisingKitty]

I just wrote a post summarizing info I can find online about a few of the bigger cruising associations. They all seem to have amassed and made very accessible amazing amounts of cruising information.

I've talked to members at the Cruising Association (UK) who say you can cover the cost of membership just on the discounts you get at marinas etc if you are cruising in the Med and a CA member. From what I can see in some sailing forums, people who have joined the SSCA are happy they did too. I am planning on joining the Cruising Association at Limehouse in London, UK...

Is there anyone who has actually joined a cruising association who does NOT feel it was a good investment?

Here it is: The Cruising Kitty: Cruising Associations Compared

[Ascalon]

It depends which one you join, where you are planning to cruise, and how much cruising you're planning to do.

A lot of the 'great value' provided by these associations is subsidised by members who pay their dues for services they never use. Always worth bearing that in mind when you decide whether to become a member.

[centaursailor]

I am a member of the Cruising Association of Ireland and the Westerly Owners Association.
Both organise cruiseing events and have great info on their websites.
CAI and WOA both have a small annual subscription.
Havn,t used the discounts but did get 2 free nights with the WOA rally to St Mary Port in 2010.
I reckon they are great value for money.

Safe sailing

[rfhtf3]

I think that several of them offer a wealth of knowledge for the members. I only belong to an owners association right now and the cost of the membership has already paid for itself with the great info I've gleaned from the membership.

[killarney_sailor]

I belong to the Seven Seas Cruising Association and think it is money well spent. Joined the Cruising Association when I thought I was taking my boat to Europe. Didn't take the boat there, but did stay at the Cruising Association headquarters in east London very cheaply - something like 22 pounds including a light breakfast.