Melissa Sopata is a liveaboard, vanner, digital nomad and small business owner.  Melissa first learned to sail in Cleveland, Ohio on a J/26 about 20 years ago. Boating was not part of her life again until 2019 when she moved to California from Chicago and purchased a 38′ Bayliner in Moss Landing on Monterey Bay.  She discovered a lively boating community and new friends that were much needed during the covid shut down.

Melissa has just been nominated for Director on the Pacific Inter-Club Yacht Association 2023 Board. She has been serving as a representative PICYA Delegate for the Elkhorn Yacht Club in Moss Landing for the past 3 years – increasing the awareness this delightful destination for boaters and more.

Established in 1946, Elkhorn Yacht Club is celebrating 75 years (when bikini’s were introduced in Paris). Located on the Elkhorn Slough in Moss Landing just 20 minutes north of downtown Monterey. Surrounded by kayak tours and related boatyard vendors the Club is right on the water – surrounded by wildlife in the waterways. Otters, harbor seals and whales are typical sightings.