The blessing of the fleet was held in Newcastle on Sunday to make the start of the boating season.
The maritime tradition was historically held to protect vessels and wish them safe passage.
At the Newcastle Cruising Yacht Club event, participants wore Hawaiian-style leis, adding colour to the occasion as yachts and motorboats were blessed.
The 22-vessel fleet then sailed up the harbour and back.
"They got a good reception from all the walkers along the promenade," club chief executive Paul O'Rourke said.
Mr O'Rourke said the blessing was an "old tradition that most yacht clubs do".
"It's to open the boating season. People dress their boats in flags up and down the mast and invite family and friends out on the water," he said.
"The members love getting out on the boats."
The fleet blessing concept began centuries ago in Mediterranean fishing communities.
It's also linked to stories in the gospels of Jesus enacting two miracle catches of fish.
"The boats are blessed by the local padre. In this case, it was Reverend Garry Dodd, of the Mission to Seafarers Newcastle," Mr O'Rourke said.
"Everyone comes back to the club after and celebrates. It's a nice day."
The club's yacht racing season runs from now to Christmas, then February to April.
John Burrows, who participated in the event with his 32-foot sailing vessel named Betty D, said it was about "community spirit".
"It's an introduction to the sailing season for the crew to get back on the boat and back in touch with each other," Mr Burrows said.
He enjoyed the racing and social aspects of sailing culture.
"It's good being out on the water and hanging out with other people," he said.
"I like a bit of competition and team spirit."
As for the history of blessing boats to wish them safe passage, he said "I'm not a religious person".
"But it's always good to believe we'll do well in future," he said.
