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The top 50 most exclusive yacht clubs in the world honored with platinum status.

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Royal Yacht Squadron in England

The rich and famous are not merely looking for the best place to anchor their yachts; they are also seeking out exclusive memberships in stunning destinations, all offering luxury amenities and, of course, bragging rights. These exclusive yachting clubs with often outrageous initiation fees, provide luxurious clubhouses, and provide accommodations for yachties who want to get their land legs. Most of them provide high-end concierge service to its members as well as Michelin-star quality restaurants and more.

Yacht Clubs have been recognized in the Platinum Clubs of America elections for more than 20 years. According to the Platinum Club, “Recognition in the following categories is important in the selection of Platinum status; Tradition, history, and heritage, a respected membership, excellence in amenities, exceptional service, adapting to changing times, and overall experience.

I spoke with the President of Club Leaders Forum, David V. Smith, about the selection, and he says, “we created an alphabetical selection this time as opposed to by rank because we felt that it was challenging to compare a yacht club in Ireland with a yacht club in Singapore, as amenities, location and facilities do vary quite a lot. The yachting and boating world is a different and unique culture, typically a little more relaxed and not as formal as country clubs and golf clubs. However, many of the world’s finest yacht clubs have wonderful history and traditions, with a great sense of camaraderie among their members. Certain yacht clubs were selected by the Panel not necessarily for their facilities and amenities but in their recognition of hosting world class sailing regattas and events.”  

Here are the top 50 most exclusive yacht clubs worldwide being awarded the ultimate Platinum Status for 2021.

Annapolis Yacht Club

Surrounding the Spa Creek Bridge in Annapolis, the Club boasts over 75 wet slips and dry dockage. The club began in 1886 as an informal canoe club, and today has 1600 regular members active in social, racing, and cruising programs.

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Aerial view of Beach Point Club

Beach Point Club

Beach Point Club is a member-owned, family-oriented private club. The elegant and spacious clubhouse was built in the 1890s by an industrialist as a private home. In 1925 the property was purchased by the founding members with the purpose of establishing a club on the water. The club now has more than 600 members with a full service marina.

Chicago Yacht Club

Founded in 1875, Chicago Yacht Club is one of the oldest and most respected yacht clubs in the world. The Club is home to more than 1,400 members, including a winning America’s Cup skipper, and Olympic medalists.

The stunning Grosse Pointe Yacht Club

Grosse Pointe Yacht Club

Grosse Pointe offers a 261-slip certified Clean Marina, state-of-the-art Marine Activity Center, newly renovated Bowling Recreation Center and Family Recreation Center, new Fitness Center, and Olympic-sized pool. The 75,000-square-foot Clubhouse features Italian Renaissance architecture and has been listed on the National Register of Historic Places since 2015. Initiation fees can go as high as $12,500 with $650 monthly dues

Larchmont Yacht Club

Located in Westchester County, New York, the Club has been in existence since 1880 when it was purchased by Benjamin A. Carver, a railroad magnate. The original Carver residence was much smaller than the present clubhouse – the east and west wings were added following the purchase. The Junior Clubhouse was the Carver stable: the basement was the cow barn, while the first floor housed the horses.

Lauderdale Yacht Club

Founded in 1938, Lauderdale Yacht Club is invitation only and host to 65 dock slips that wrap around the marina. The club is also home to one of the most elite junior sailing programs in the nation.

Naples Yacht Club

Founded in 1947 and situated on Naples Bay, the Club has the proud distinction of being the city’s first and oldest private club and its marina has 75 concrete floating docks. Membership has grown from three founding yachtsmen to over 530.

Newport Harbor Yacht Club

Established in 1916, the club is located on the Balboa peninsula in Southern California. A newly remodeled clubhouse was also created to replace the original building. Initiation fees range upwards of $20,000

Palm Beach Yacht Club

Palm Bea ch Yacht Club

Founded in 1890, the marina has 45 slips to accommodate boats up to 150 feet. All annual dockage contracts (from $1 per foot per day), include a membership to the prestigious Yacht Club.

Pelican Isle Y acht Club

With 190 wet slips and direct access to the Gulf of Mexico, the club can accommodate vessels up to 55 feet. Equity social membership is by invitation only with an initiation fee as high as $15,000, and annual dues at $5,500.

Royal Palm Yacht & Country Club

Founded in 1959, the club has been part of the Boca Raton landscape for over 50 years with membership by invitation only. The state-of-the-art Marina boasts a TimberTech floating dock system, accommodating vessels up to 130 feet. 

Sailfish Club of Florida

The Sailfish Club of Florida was built in the early 1900s. It is the oldest continuously operating private club in the town of Palm Beach.

San Diego Yacht Club

In June of 1886 a group of local boating enthusiasts joined together to found what has become this cornerstone yacht club. The racing history of SDYC is as significant as the history of its location. Several members were winning races all over the country in the early to mid-20th century, however, SDYC reached a turning point starting in the 1980s when Dennis Conner won the America’s Cup. In the early 1980s, Dennis Conner won the cup once and then lost it the next time to New York Yacht Club. In 1987, Dennis won again on behalf of San Diego Yacht Club. The America’s Cup was won a third time by SDYC in 1992 by Bill Koch on the yacht,  America .

With 600 wet slips and 100 dry slips, initiation fee is upwards of $24,000 plus $200 monthly dues.

Aerial view of the San Francisco Yacht Club

San Francisco Yacht Club

In the summer of 1869, a group of active, local yachtsmen formed the San Francisco Yacht Club. The oldest yacht club on the Pacific Coast, it’s one of the most elegant and exclusive yacht clubs in the U.S. The harbor consists of 190 berths and 50 dry-storage spaces, as well as a large youth sailing dock. Membership is by sponsor referral only.

Sarasota Yacht Club

Saraso ta Yacht Club

Sarasota Yacht Club was organized in the summer of 1907 and located on the north end of Siesta Key. Facilities include a 110-slip marina, fitness center, heated pool, two indoor bars, a pool bar, multiple meeting rooms, a grand dining room, waterside terrace, and lunch dock. Membership is by invitation only.

Savannah Yacht Club

The Savannah Yacht Club was originally organized on June 14, 1869. The private, members only club is by invitation only with only 1,000 members. Amenities include a figure 8 pool, an Olympic size swimming pool, as well as floating docks.

St. Francis Yacht Club

This club was founded in 1927 when the members of the San Francisco Yacht Club decided to move their clubhouse out of San Francisco to Belvedere, California. The 2,300 member club is considered to be the most prestigious yacht club in the western U.S. and has hosted over 40 regattas on San Francisco Bay. The Mediterranean Revival-style clubhouse is in close proximity to the Golden Gate Bridge and enjoys views from the Bridge to Alcatraz Island and beyond.

Tampa Yacht & Country Club

Founded in 1904 as a place to race sailboats, ride and show horses, the marina now holds 31 covered slips and 50 open slips. Membership is sponsored and by invitation only.

Yacht Club Costa Smeralda

Circolo Canottieri Aniene

Circolo degli Esteri

Compagnia della Vela

Playing host to 10 prestigious regattas this year, including the Maxi Yacht Rolex Cup, the Yacht Club Costa Smerelda has been tied to the Italian Sailing Federation since the 1960s. Offering a wellness center and spa, the clubhouse overlooks the Marina and the Italian coast. The club has a panoramic pool terrace, al fresco dining, and a member’s lounge and bar. There are also 24 residential suites, including the popular Presidential suite that opened in 2016.

Yacht Club Italiano

Royal Prince Alfred Yacht Club

Cruising Yacht Club of Australia

Royal Freshwater Bay Yacht Club

Royal Melbourne Yacht Squadron

Royal Perth Yacht Club

The Royal Prince Alfred Yacht Club

Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron

Royal Sydney Yacht Squadron

Raffles Marina

Republic of Singapore Yacht Club

Real Club Nautico de Vigo

Royal Bermuda Yacht Club

The Royal Bermuda Yacht Club has its marina close to the bustling Front Street at the heart of the historic city of Hamilton. It began as a meeting place for British military officers and Bermudian sailing enthusiasts.

Membership in the club extends to over 850 resident and non-resident members. The 130 berth marina has a full-service staff and can accommodate vessels of up to 150 feet in length.

Nassau Yacht Club

Royal Bombay Yacht Club

Royal Canadian Yacht Club

Royal Vancouver Yacht Club

Royal Victoria Yacht Club

Royal Cork Yacht Club, the oldest yacht club in the world.

Royal Cork Yacht Club

Sometime in the early 1600s, sailing for private pleasure started to to become popular in the Netherlands. Later that century, during the Cromwellian years, King Charles II of England was in exile in the Netherlands and while there he became aware of this new and exciting pastime. According to Royal Cork Yacht Club, “By 1720, interest in the sport had progressed so much that his great-grandson, the 26 year old William O’Brien, the 9th Lord Inchiquin, and five of his friends got together to formalize their activities and in so doing established ” The Water Club of the Harbour of Cork.”

This club is known today as the Royal Cork Yacht Club and it is the oldest yacht club in the world. It was originally located on Haulbowline Island before moving to the town of Cobh and finally establisged in it's current location in Crosshaven.

Royal Irish Yacht Club

NEW ZEALAND

Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron

Royal Southern Yacht Club

Royal Thames Yacht Club

The Royal Thames Yacht Club is one of the oldest yacht clubs in the world, founded in 1775. The exclusive Knightsbridge Clubhouse has two bars, an acclaimed restaurant, and accommodations for those staying overnight. Anyone looking to join must be recommended by current members.

The Royal Western Yacht Club of England

Royal Yacht Squadron

Royal Yacht Club Moscow

Société des Régates du Havre

Monaco Yacht Club

Yacht Club de Monaco

Founded by Prince Rainier III in 1953, the Yacht Club De Monaco is a prestigious club that holds a unique position on the international yachting scene with more than 1600 members drawn from 66 nationalities.

The reigning Club President since 1984 has been His Royal Highness, Prince Sovereign Albert II, and a suitably formal dress code for day and evening wear is enforced at all times. Membership is limited and very, very exclusive: prospective candidates must submit an application form to the club committee and be introduced by two sponsors, both of whom must be existing members. The successful applicant will be welcomed with an ice-breaking cocktail party and gala dinner in their honor.

The futuristic clubhouse was redesigned in 2013 and overlooks Port Hercules, it offers up very popular cocktail bar and Mediterranean restaurant.

Yacht Club Santo Amaro

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What Is A Yacht Club? 8 Interesting Facts (For Beginners!)

Yacht clubs can seem intimidating but they don’t have to be. The purpose of a yacht club is to celebrate boaters and the sport of yacht racing, sailing, and cruising.

What Is A Yacht Club? A yacht club is a social membership sports club for boaters. Yacht clubs are typically located near lakes or the sea with local members that are boat owners or people, leasing or renting boats. There’s a monthly or yearly membership fee.

Here’s everything you need to know about yacht clubs.

Table of Contents

1. What is the purpose of a yacht club?

Yacht clubs are a type of sports club which is centered around boating. They are located seaside, but you can find the occasional yacht club near a river or lake, depending on your area. They are normally located in a building on the water, with a section of the water delimited for club activities, normally roped off with buoys.

Clubhouses often have cafes, bars, or a restaurant so members can socialize in an informal setting. At certain clubs, the restaurant can be open to the public for certain hours of the day but are closed during yacht club festivities.

They are generally run and operated by memberships and are used to promote cruising, racing, and socializing for yacht aficionados.

People refer to yacht clubs by their initials.

The New York Yacht Club is colloquially referred to the abbreviation NYYC. Just like that, another name for the Kamini Yacht Club is the KYC. Some yacht clubs have been established under royal patronages, like the Royal Yacht Squadron or the Yacht Club de France .

Some clubs are focused more on memberships (meaning that they have more of a commercial focus). Others provide a service for the community. Others are associated with particular ports or marinas. However, while the objectives might vary, one of the common themes in all yacht clubs is their emphasis on socialization with one another.

2. Why join a yacht club?

Yacht clubs are great ways for you to be able to learn about various yacht expeditions, trips, destinations, and events. If you are planning to go on an adventure on your yacht, a club is a great way to find details for your trip, from experts or veterans who have made many of those trips in the past.

Other yacht enthusiasts and experts like to brag about their adventures. This is a great way to find out about things you may want to try in the future.

In addition to that, there are other, more tangible advantages, such as:

• Getting access to planned activities and cruises organized and planned out by the board members.
• Having access to the facilities of the yacht club, like the exercise room, dining rooms, and the meeting rooms.
• You will be able to have your children join the youth or junior programs. These are often at a reduced price or even free for yacht club members.
• You can get a boat slip for your yacht on the premises, or if not at the marina, then at a dry storage area.
• You can race under their US sanctioned burgee (the flag of the yacht club). Often, racing at national or international competitions requires membership to a qualifying yacht club.

3. Do you have to own a yacht to be in a yacht club?

While it isn’t always mandatory to own a yacht, boating and sailing knowledge is a must when joining a yacht club. Some clubs offer yacht rentals (or you can rent a yacht from a marina).

After all, one of the ways that a yacht club can attract new members is by getting in touch with new boaters and with fledgling yacht owners.

If you are interested in joining a yacht club, consider going to yacht racing events and socializing with some of the regular faces there. You may find that they will invite you to their yacht club as a guest.

Most yacht clubs leave it up to the members to figure out what the club’s objectives are when it comes to satisfying membership regulations and attracting other likeminded individuals.

What is a commodore at a yacht club?

Like most clubs or organizations, yacht clubs often have committees, chairmen, directors, and other forms of leadership. However, because of the nautical focus in activities, the chairman or the CEO of the yacht club is known as the Commodore.

4. What is an example of the different roles of officers in yacht clubs?

Yacht clubs are run differently. An example of that is how each officer does things differently depending on what club you are in.

Generally speaking, a breakdown of the roles is as such:

• Committee (General) – Each member of a committee is elected and–together–they fill these following roles:
• Commodore.  A commodore sets the direction which the club will follow and manages the club. This person also chairs the committee meetings
• Vice Commodore.  This person is second in command and organized and manages either the sailing or land activities of the club.
• Rear Commodore.  This is the third person in command and manages what the vice commodore does not (either sailing or land). Whoever manages the land activities, manages the social events (dinners, galas, mixers, and other gatherings).
• Secretary. Port captain or fleet captain is another name for a secretary in a yacht club. They are officers who handle the club records and maintain all of the legal documentation in accordance with the law. This might include licenses, rules, rates, health and safety certificates
• Treasurer. P ort captain or the fleet captain can be another name for the treasurer, depending on the title of the secretary. Treasurer handles all of the finances and also submits legal documentation in accordance with the law. They are required to keep the committee apprised of the financial situation of the club.

In the United Kingdom, there is also an Admiral , who is ranked above a Commodore. He is the senior officer and makes sure that everything within the club runs smoothly.

Depending on the club, other members of the committee might include the titles of:

• Sailing secretary
• Training principal
• Sailing yacht coxswain
• Powerboat coxswain
• Harbormaster
• Class captains
• House secretary
• Bar secretary
• Catering secretary
• Club welfare officer

5. What is the difference between a marina and a yacht club?

The difference between a yacht club and a marina is the purpose in which it operates. A yacht club is a private club. It is organized and assembled to aid in the support of the sport of sailing/racing. It also supports its members in various ways.

Boaters will dock and house their yachts in Marinas.

The marinas themselves are either privately or publicly owned.

6. What are the best or the top 10 yacht clubs in the world?

There are hundreds of organizations in the United States alone. With as many harbors or seaside towns are in the world, just imagine how many yacht clubs there are on earth.

Each of these clubs has its own target members and specialty. Some clubs specialize in racing. Others in sailing education programs.

Some clubs focus on cruising. While others focus on rentals. Because of the differences, it can be difficult to rate yachts on a “top ten best” list.

Of course, that’s why the Platinum Clubs of America lists exist.

7. What are the top ten Platinum Yacht Clubs in America?

The Platinum Clubs of America chooses clubs based on their recognition and excellence. The people on the committee give the title of “Platinum Club of America” to clubs based in the US, which meet each of the seven criteria:

• Universal recognition
• Excellence in amenities and facilities
• The caliber of staff and professional service levels
• Quality and commitment of membership
• Governance and prudent fiscal management
• Adapting to changing times
• Overall experience

Based on those criteria, here are the top ten yacht clubs on their list:

• Francis Yacht Club (out of San Francisco, Cali, rated at 83.55/100 points)
• San Diego Yacht Club (out of San Diego, Cali, rated at 81.82/100)
• Grosse Pointe Yacht Club (out of Grosse Pointe Shores, Mich., rated at 74.23/100)
• Annapolis Yacht Club (out of Annapolis, Md., rated at 70.18/100)
• Chicago Yacht Club (out of Chicago, Ill., rated at 69.86/100)
• Naples Yacht Club (out of Naples, Fla. rated at 67.49/100)
• Pelican Isle Yacht Club (out of Naples, Fla., rated at 63.57/100)
• Sailfish Club of Florida (out of Palm Beach, Fla. 68/100)
• Beach Point Club (out of Mamaroneck, N.Y., rated at 59.41/100)
• The San Francisco Yacht Club (out of Belvedere, Calif., rated at 59.37/100)

8. What are some of the oldest yacht clubs?

The ten oldest yacht clubs are the:

• Royal Nova Scotia Yacht Squadron, based out of Halifax, Nova Scotia (and established in 1837)
• Detroit Boat Club, based out of Detroit, Michigan (established in 1839)
• The New York Yacht Club, based out of Newport, Rhode Island (and established in 1844)
• Mobile Yacht Club, based out of Mobile, Alabama (established in 1847)
• Biloxi Yacht Club, based out of Biloxi, Mississippi (established in 1849)
• Southern Yacht Club, based out of Louisiana (established in 1849)
• Springfield Yacht & Canoe Club, based out of Springfield, Massachusetts (established in 1850)
• Royal Canadian Yacht Club, based out of Toronto, Ontario (established in 1852)
• Carolina Yacht Club, based out of North Carolina (established in 1853)
• Maryland Club, based out of Baltimore, Maryland (established in 1857)

Final Thoughts

There are some major advantages to joining an organization like a yacht club. The tangible benefits of being a club member include boat slips, access to facilities, discounts on services, etc. In addition, there are social benefits like the sense of community which comes with the club.

It is always best to sail, race, and cruise with experienced, like-minded people. Now, this doesn’t mean that you should sail with a big group all the time. Sailing with a limited crew, out on the open water can be quite relaxing. The sense of community is a great experience that everyone should be exposed to, no matter what their hobby is.

Yacht clubs focus on different things, find the one which best speaks to you on a personal level. Why did you start boating? What do you enjoy about boating? What are you looking for in a yacht club?

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Long Branch Ice Boat & Yacht Club

Boating, Fishing, Ice Boating, and Social Events on the Shrewsbury River

Welcome to the homepage of the Long Branch Ice Boat & Yacht Club .

The Long Branch Ice Boat & Yacht Club maintains an active fleet on the Shrewsbury River in Long Branch, NJ. Club members enjoy fishing, cruising, sailing, ice boating, and skiff and ice-boat building. The club also has a collection of historic ice boats, artifacts, and photographs. 

The club is busiest during the summer season, but the club’s active winter fleet often sails on home ice and travels to compete on “hard water.”  We hold several events like annual crab and clam feasts, our fishing contest, and the famous “Thunder on the Shrewsbury,” which attracts New Jersey Speed Skiffs and other fast boats from around the country.

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Walt Disney World® Water Transportation

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Take in the scenery and relax with welcome breezes as you sail around Seven Seas Lagoon and Bay Lake. Feel the wind in your hair and the magic in the air as you cruise Crescent Lake and Lake Hollywood. Water taxis and ferries sail to and from Magic Kingdom park. Most routes run on 15- to 30-minute intervals.

Magic Kingdom Park and Magic Kingdom Area Resorts Accessible by water launch (also known as water taxi) from:

• Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground
• Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa
• Disney's Polynesian Villas & Bungalows
• Disney’s Wilderness Lodge

Ferryboats connect Magic Kingdom park to the Transportation and Ticket Center. You can also hop aboard a water taxi to travel between the following Resort hotels:

• Disney’s Contemporary Resort

EPCOT and Disney’s Hollywood Studios These parks are accessible via the FriendShip Boat from the following locations:

• Disney’s BoardWalk Villas
• Disney's Beach Club Villas
• Disney’s Yacht Club Resort
• Walt Disney World Dolphin Hotel
• Walt Disney World Swan Hotel

Disney Springs Disney Springs is accessible via the Sassagoula River Cruise from the following locations:

• Disney's Old Key West Resort
• Disney's Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa
• Disney's Port Orleans Resort - Riverside
• Disney's Port Orleans - French Quarter

Important Information

Hours of operation vary subject to water and weather conditions. Please note that no luggage or alcohol of any type is permitted on Disney watercraft. All strollers must be folded and stowed out of the aisle. Medical strollers for Guests with disabilities will be treated as wheelchairs.

How to Use Walt Disney World Water Transportation

Getting where you want to go is easy when riding aboard Walt Disney World Water Transportation—including water launch, boat and ferryboat service to Magic Kingdom park and select Walt Disney World Resort hotels.

Simply wait at one of the convenient and well-marked pickup points throughout Walt Disney World Resort. Your ride will then arrive—usually within minutes—ready to transport you to a variety of destinations. Keep in mind that certain destinations are not direct; you may be required to take a connecting mode of transportation to reach your destination.

For more information or further assistance, just ask a Cast Member!

Find Walt Disney World® Water Transportation

Magic kingdom resort area, epcot resort area, disney springs resort area, magic kingdom park, disney's hollywood studios.

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Welcome to the Greenwich Boat & Yacht Club

Tarrytown Boat & Yacht Club 41 o 04' North 73 o 52' West On the Hudson River at Tarrytown, NY on the east shore one-half mile north of the Tappan Zee Bridge Click Burgee for current Tarrytown weather or Buoy for tides The latest tarrytown weather     Click Buoy for tide information URGENT NOTICE: Coast Guard advises mariners of dangerous conditions on Hudson River Click here to read SEA TOW DISCOUNT MEMBERSHIP OFFER TBYC Members Only - Expires June 1, 2011 Click to download application INFORMATION FOR ALL MEMBERS COMMODORE'S LETTER TO ALL MEMBERS Click here to read Tarrytown Village Law Requires Your Action & Compliance Click here to read Marina slip rates TBYC 100th Anniversary Celebration News Tarrytown Marina is handicapped accessible. View TBYC 100 Year Anniversary 2006 Tarrytown Boat and Yacht Club - History Member of the Yachting Club of America Volunteer for Hudson River Swim for Life 9/9/07 Volunteers with boats are needed to assist in the 16th annual Hudson River Swim for Life. Click here for details. Welcome Train Schedules Driving Directions NOAA Storm Prediction Center Marine & Coastal Weather Hudson River Observatory from SIT Historic Tarrytown Contact Us   Marina Rate Schedule and Contract Membership & Dues Committees Boat List Winter Storage Coast Guard Auxiliary Ladies Auxiliary Links Pay Invoices On Line TBYC News & Announcements Community News & Announcements Social Events Pictures Boats for Sale Check email   236 Green Street P.O.  Box 432 Tarrytown, NY 10591 Ph: (914) 631-1300 Fax: (914) 631-4377             Click icon for "Info" or Web Master 2024 TB&YC Officers Commodore Lou Monaco Vice Commodore Jim Haggerty Rear Commodore Mike Montanaro Fleet Captain Mike Silverman Secretary Ted Tenenzapf Treasurer Rob Gramaglia House Chairman George Burns Past Commodore & Trustee Jerry Gregory Past Commodore & Trustee Ron Serafin Web Master John Nadasi Ladies Auxiliary President: Annette Leder

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Yacht and Boat Clubs of Greenwich

By Local History Librarian March 17, 2017

Originally written by Carl White.

A friend recently asked me which was the oldest yacht and boat club in Greenwich. I said I thought it was the Indian Harbor Yacht Club on Steamboat Road. After all, this was the site where ferry boats from New York City and Long Island moored. Local agricultural products (apples, potatoes, etc) were once shipped from this location. Once people from New York City began to vacation in “the country”, they began sailing on Long Island Sound.  So this was the most logical place for a yacht and boat club to pop up. My first thought was to grab Karen Jewell’s book “ A History of the Greenwich Waterfront ” (2011). She’d used the Local History vertical files and reference collection for her research.  I then checked the history section of the websites for the individual clubs. Finally, I reviewed several Oral History Project Redbooks and transcripts for more information.

The Riverside Yacht Club

Well, I was close!  It just so happens that the Riverside Yacht Club was formed on May 25, 1888. Mr. George I Tyson, a successful businessman, and yachtsman donated an acre of land along the Riverside shoreline. He wanted to organize a unique group of his friends for the purpose of sailing. Tyson even paid to have a new clubhouse built. Karen Jewell states that this was the second club to be founded in Connecticut and the eighth on Long Island Sound, despite the rise and fall of many startups.

The Victorian-style clubhouse was built in 1889. Part of it was built on pilings near a seawall. It contained a kitchen, ballroom, reading rooms, card rooms, bedrooms, locker rooms, and an expansive wrap-around porch. There was even a news article in The New York Herald about the new clubhouse! The club became so popular that it wasn’t long before the members were clamoring for more space. A new “spar loft” was added in 1893. Commodore Tyson once again funded the new addition. It included a billiard room, shuffleboard area, bowling area, staff housing, and horse sheds. The club was able to hold Midsummer Balls and Saturday Evening Hops. The 180-member club owned 10 steam-powered yachts and 52 sailboats. Eventually, the club began participating in regattas, and a Junior Sailing Program was initiated.

The club managed to flourish, despite several setbacks. On September 21, 1938, the “Great New England Hurricane” flooded the main and junior clubhouses. Amazingly, no boats were damaged. The clubhouse was back in service the next day due to a superhuman effort by staff and club members. The War Years (World War I & II) proved financially challenging for the Riverside Yacht Club. As the nation was redirecting material and financial resources toward the war, the club faced financial hardship, which it was able to overcome. As the war was winding down, another hurricane hit Greenwich from September 14 to 15, 1944. Although the clubhouse escaped damage, this time the vessels were damaged.

Indian Harbor Yacht Club

Surprisingly, the Indian Harbor Yacht Club was founded in New York City in July 1889, and incorporated in New York State on April 11, 1892.  Elbert A. Silleck and Richard Outwater were the only Greenwich members. The first clubhouse was set up on Finch’s (Tweed’s) Island. Members would travel from New York City to Greenwich. The clubhouse stayed there from 1892 to 1895. When E.C. Benedict bought the land in  1895, the club tried to get Benedict to agree to rent Finch’s Island as a “Club Station.” When Benedict didn’t respond, IHYC started a search for a new site.

Initially, a Rocky Point Neck site was selected, but the deal fell through. After other considerations, a permanent home was built in 1897 on Steamboat Road. It was renovated in 1898 to include a new grill room with an adjoining café, formal dining room, storage rooms, additional storage rooms, a larger piazza, and a 278-foot jetty.

On October 3, 1919, the clubhouse was completely destroyed by a fire. The damage was estimated to be100-thousand dollars. The building was only insured for 30 thousand dollars. Fortunately, the Club was able to raise enough money to build a new clubhouse, which opened on Memorial Day 1921. Today, it remains a (navigational) landmark adjacent to Greenwich Harbor.

The Belle Haven Yacht Club

Around the same time as the Indian Harbor Yacht Club was established, the Belle Haven Land Company established “The Greenwich Casino Association.” It was hoped that this would help attract people to buy property on the peninsula. The term casino may be misleading since it was initially used to refer to a place for social interaction (i.e. meetings, entertainment, dancing but not gambling.) A clubhouse was opened on July 4, 1892. Activities included boating, swimming, tennis, horse shows, live music, and theater. In 1926, the name of the organization was changed to The Beach Club. It was only open for part of the year. Club boating didn’t become popular until 1953 when a member introduced a new fiberglass sloop. This seemed to pique interest, and more people joined the club. By 1961, the name was changed to The Belle Haven Yacht Club.

The Byram Shore Boat Club

The Byram Shore Boat Club was founded in 1938. It was formed for people who enjoyed yachting, sailing, fishing, and boating, as well as education in seamanship and navigation. The clubhouse was built in 1935 and 67 marina berths were added in 1970. Club events included a Seafood Bakeoff, St Patrick’s Day Party, movie nights, Rock the Docks concert, and New England Clambakes. There were approximately 270 members.

Greenwich Boat and Yacht Club

The Greenwich Boat and Yacht Club (GBYC) was established on Grass Island in 1938. Several businessmen formed it so that residents could enjoy boating. They also worked closely with the Town to enhance the harbor area. The current boathouse was built in 1955, and the docks provided 65 slips.

Old Greenwich Yacht Club

At the eastern end of Town, the Old Greenwich Yacht Club (OGYC) was formed in 1943. It was formed to provide sailing education and social interaction. Walter Pendleton served as the first Commodore. A boathouse was built as the first clubhouse, and a deep-water dock extended out toward Sand Island. The Town purchased Tod’s Point in 1945 and planned to convert a “three-car garage” building into a clubhouse. It had double doors that opened to a work pit for trucks and automobiles. A coal-fired boiler provided hot water heat. Future additions included a porch and shed. In 1938, the Great Hurricane destroyed the dock. Small boats had to be pulled up on shore and tied to stakes. Large vessels anchored offshore. Club boats were pulled into the clubhouse for maintenance.

Going Down To The Sea In Ships

So the Riverside Yacht Club beat out the Indian Harbor Yacht Club by a year. I’m happy to say that each of the boating and yachting clubs appears to be healthy and vibrant today. I love to take the ferry out to Island Beach and see all the boats on Long Island Sound on the weekend. It reminds me of the important role boating and sailing (and Long Island Sound) have played in the history of Greenwich. Although commercial boating has waned, recreational boating flourishes. There’s something about a sail filled with wind, carrying a boat quietly across the water. It’s somehow magical.

May the residents of Greenwich continue to “go down to the sea in ships,” and keep the spirit of adventure alive.

Jewell, K:  “The History of the Greenwich Waterfront”; History Press, Charleston SC, 2011.

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Hudson River Boat & Yacht Club Association

Maintaining a constant study of all things pertinent to the sport of boating and other recreational use of the Hudson River and improving conditions thereon.

Promoting increased inter-club activity among various clubs on the Hudson River; encouraging and furthering education relative to boating and navigation.

Cooperating with all government agencies concerned with the management and regulation of the Hudson River and with boating matters in general.

A Message from the President

The Hudson River Boat and Yacht Club Association (HRBYCA) has been the advocate for 33 local boat and yacht clubs from Raritan Bay, New Jersey to Port Ewan, New York. For 47 years, our goal has been to protect the environment of the Hudson River while encouraging the enjoyment of the river for over 5,000 recreational boating families. We ensure that our voices are represented in issues of government and we are a strong advocate of clean waters and responsible and safe boating.

The goal of the HRBYCA is to provide clubs with knowledge necessary to run our volunteer boating organizations. There are many challenges with growing membership, waterfront access, dredging, tax, insurance, environmental and safety concerns, and other practical issues.

General membership meetings take place on the last Tuesday of every other month. We strongly encourage and welcome any recreational boat owner, PWC owner, or paddler to attend our meetings, which offer topics that have an impact on your boating.

If you’re interested in joining a boat club on the Hudson River and would like more information, please check out our list of member clubs.

To stay current of all HRBYCA and river events please “Like” us on HRBYCA Facebook page.

Thanks, and I hope to see you on the river!

Jerry Silverman

Jerry Silverman President Hudson River Boat &Yacht Club Association [email protected]

New Cape Coral Yacht Club designs: Most on council like a coastal, Key West vibe

Given three different design options for the new Yacht Club Community Center , most of the Cape Coral City Council is leaning toward a coastal, Key West-flavor architecture.

At a committee of the whole meeting on Wednesday, the city sought direction from the council on a design direction for the outside of the community building.

"It's a concept, just like we do with anything else, and as we are designing, things may come up that we want to shift and be nimble (on)," said Cape Coral City Manager Michael Ilczyszyn.

James Pankonin with Kimley Horn, a consulting firm focusing on public and private developments, presented the information about the look of the community building.

Cape Coral's Yacht Club Community Park, which includes a yacht basin, tennis courts, a swimming pool, a ballroom, and a beach, has been a popular attraction and staple for the city since the 1960s but is set to undergo major renovations after Hurricane Ian delayed the original plans .

The current plans include a new two-story community center to replace the ballroom, removing the tennis courts, rearranging the area to accommodate a four-story parking garage, a new restaurant, and a new resort-style pool.

The city is also preparing for the demolition of the Yacht Club and its facilities in April as it awaits permits.

No estimates could be provided for the price of the new building.

"It will really come into how much of certain materials are needed and construction methods," Ilczyszyn said.

The city will have that information once they have 30% of the construction design.

Two public meetings for the designs are planned for April 2 and May 7.

After getting public input, the city will vote to amend its contract with Kimley Horn to approve all these changes.

The plan is to have these changes approved or introduced before the summer hiatus.

Previous Coverage Demolition of Cape Coral's Yacht Club slated for April will cost almost $1 million

Cape Coral community news Courtyards of Cape Coral South sets bingo fundraiser for residents still affected by Ian

New Designs for the Yacht Club building

John Bryant with Sweet Sparkman Architecture and Interiors, a Sarasota-based design firm, said the goal with the new designs was to maintain the experience of the original Yacht Club.

The majority of the council preferred option one.

Design one:

Bryant described the first option as "coastal vernacular" and similar to the park buildings at Lake Kennedy and Yellow Fever Creek.

"So it's sort of informed by the current architectural work in 2024," Bryant said. "Kinda Key West."

Councilmember Dan Sheppard and Mayor John Gunter preferred option one.

Gunter said the design was the most pleasing for him.

Councilmember Keith Long liked option one and said he liked the Key West aesthetic.

Councilmember Tom Hayden liked option one.

Design two:

Option two is more informed by the current Yacht Club and would have a stone base and mid-century feel to it, according to Bryant.

"There's certainly opportunity to kind of further develop this option to have even more of the existing Yacht Club feel, but a different vibe, feel than option one," Bryant said.

He also said option two might be more expressive the closer they try to recreate the aesthetic of the old ballroom building.

Councilmember Jessica Cosden liked design two as it incorporated design elements of the old building though she lamented how similar it looked to the first design.

"I wish we could have done more, but I know it's hard with a two-story building, to make it look the same as a very unique one-story building.

Councilmember Bill Steinke said two would be his choice as well, but was wary of additional maintenance of natural wood products used in the design.

"As long as we can bring that aesthetic and keep the maintenance down, number two would be my choice," Steinke said.

Councilmember Robert Welsh said he could go either way, but he liked the look of two.

Design three:

This would be more contemporary and modern.

"Even with a more contemporary language, you can still have warmth, incorporating some wood elements and stone elements," Bryant said.

None of the council members expressed any favorability for the third design.

Inside the new community center

The Community Center will have an additional 10,000 square feet for a total of 47,000 square feet, a history room to remember the first ballroom building on the first floor, and more rooms for civic and community use on the first floor.

Additionally, the new ballroom has shifted slightly as the balcony area on the second floor has been expanded to wrap around the top of the building.

Posted 2024-03-15 08:25

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