harbor yacht club nantucket

Open Daily 10am - 5pm | 365 Thames Street, Newport RI, 02840 Plan Your Visit

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Yacht Clubs

Great Harbor Yacht Club

The first yacht club built on Nantucket in over 100 years, Great Harbor Yacht Club (GHYC) commenced in 2003 with sailing programs and social events for its early members. GHYC celebrates Nantucket and her bountiful offerings – beautiful waters and rich maritime history, unspoiled natural beauty, and the innumerable opportunities for carefree recreation.

Stories from Great Harbor Yacht Club

The club has a fleet of boats – including thirteen Optimists and several Beetle Cats, Lasers, Sunfish, Club 420s and Rhodes 19s, and offers an array of sailing programs for beginner to advanced children and adults. The Jobson Sailing Center was named after Gary Jobson, who has been instrumental in developing the GHYC sailing program. As far back as the 1600’s, when Nantucket was an international maritime and whaling capital, its main port was known as “Great Harbor.” Taking its name from the island’s early maritime history, Great Harbor Yacht Club (GHYC) is a celebration of everything Nantucket.

The GHYC Clubhouse is modeled after the old Nantucket Steamship building and will provide some of the most stunning views on the island. Set on the harbor’s waterfront, overlooking the GHYC docks and a spacious lawn, the Clubhouse offers its members an inviting and comfortable gathering place complete with exceptional dining, incredible views and a vibrant social scene.

GHYC affords club members abundant deep-water access and stunning views – all within walking distance of downtown Nantucket. GHYC’s exceptional waterfront amenities range from sailing at the Jobson Sailing Center to kayaking and fishing off Nantucket Sound. GHYC partnered with Grey Lady Marine to provide complete marina services to members and the public. Club members also enjoy GHYC’s state-of-the-art recreational facilities, including the GHYC Tennis & Swim Center and The Sports Barn, featuring a fitness center and spa services.

Peter Barrett

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Great Harbor Yacht Club

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Discover the Magic of Great Harbor Yacht Club

Welcome to great harbor yacht club.

Welcome aboard! If you're looking for a slice of paradise in Nantucket, Massachusetts, then look no further than the Great Harbor Yacht Club. Nestled on the stunning shores of Nantucket Island, this premier marina offers an unparalleled experience for boating enthusiasts and vacationers alike. From its luxurious facilities to its breathtaking views, Great Harbor Yacht Club is the ultimate destination for those seeking relaxation, adventure, and everything in between.

As soon as you step foot into Great Harbor Yacht Club, you'll be greeted by a warm and friendly staff who are dedicated to ensuring your stay is nothing short of extraordinary. Whether you're a seasoned sailor or a first-time visitor, you'll feel right at home in this vibrant and welcoming community. So, grab your sunscreen, put on your captain's hat, and get ready to embark on an unforgettable journey at Great Harbor Yacht Club!

Unparalleled Facilities and Amenities

Great Harbor Yacht Club boasts a wide range of world-class facilities and amenities that will make your stay truly exceptional. The marina features state-of-the-art docking facilities, ensuring that your vessel is safe and secure during your visit. With a variety of slip sizes available, accommodating boats of all shapes and sizes is a breeze.

Once you've settled in, take advantage of the club's luxurious amenities. Dive into the sparkling swimming pool for a refreshing dip or relax in one of the poolside loungers while soaking up the sun. If you're in the mood for some friendly competition, challenge your friends to a game of tennis on one of the club's well-maintained courts. Afterward, unwind with a soothing massage at the on-site spa, where skilled therapists will help you melt away any stress or tension.

Endless Adventures Await

At Great Harbor Yacht Club, adventure is just a stone's throw away. Set sail on the open waters and explore the stunning coastline of Nantucket Island. Whether you're an experienced sailor or a novice, the marina offers sailing lessons and charters for all skill levels. Feel the wind in your hair and the salt on your skin as you navigate the pristine waters surrounding the island.

If you prefer to stay on land, hop on a bike and discover the island's hidden gems. Nantucket is known for its picturesque landscapes and charming villages, and there's no better way to explore them than on two wheels. Pedal along the scenic bike paths, stopping along the way to admire the stunning ocean views or indulge in some delicious local cuisine.

Indulge in Culinary Delights

Prepare your taste buds for a culinary journey like no other. Great Harbor Yacht Club is home to a world-class restaurant that offers a delectable menu featuring fresh seafood, locally sourced ingredients, and innovative dishes that will tantalize your palate. Whether you're in the mood for a casual lunch or an elegant dinner, the restaurant's talented chefs will ensure that every bite is a memorable one.

After your meal, head over to the bar and enjoy a handcrafted cocktail or a glass of fine wine. The bar offers a cozy and inviting atmosphere, perfect for unwinding after a day of adventures on the water. Sip your drink while taking in the breathtaking sunset views over the harbor – it's a truly magical experience.

Unforgettable Events and Entertainment

Great Harbor Yacht Club is not just a marina – it's a vibrant community that hosts a variety of events and entertainment throughout the year. From live music performances to themed parties, there's always something exciting happening at the club. Join in the fun and make memories that will last a lifetime.

Whether you're attending a regatta, a charity event, or a holiday celebration, you'll be surrounded by fellow boating enthusiasts who share your passion for the sea. The club's social calendar is filled with events that cater to all ages and interests, ensuring that everyone can find something they love.

Unwind and Rejuvenate

After a day of excitement and exploration, it's time to relax and rejuvenate. Great Harbor Yacht Club offers a variety of wellness activities that will help you find your inner peace. Take a yoga class on the beach and let the soothing sound of the waves wash away your worries. Or, treat yourself to a meditation session in the club's serene garden, surrounded by lush greenery and blooming flowers.

If you're in need of some pampering, indulge in a luxurious spa treatment. From rejuvenating facials to invigorating body scrubs, the spa offers a range of services that will leave you feeling refreshed and revitalized. Let the skilled therapists work their magic and melt away any tension, leaving you ready to take on whatever adventures await.

A Home Away from Home

Great Harbor Yacht Club offers more than just a place to dock your boat – it's a home away from home. The club's warm and welcoming atmosphere will make you feel like part of the family from the moment you arrive. Whether you're a member or a guest, you'll be treated with the utmost care and attention.

From the friendly staff who are always ready to assist you to the fellow boaters who are eager to share their stories and experiences, you'll find a sense of camaraderie that is truly special. Great Harbor Yacht Club is a place where lifelong friendships are formed and memories are made.

Explore the Beauty of Nantucket

While Great Harbor Yacht Club offers an abundance of amenities and activities, don't forget to venture out and explore the beauty of Nantucket. This charming island is known for its pristine beaches, historic lighthouses, and quaint cobblestone streets.

Take a stroll through the town's charming shops and art galleries, where you'll find unique treasures and one-of-a-kind souvenirs. Visit the Whaling Museum and learn about the island's rich maritime history, or simply relax on the sandy shores and soak up the sun.

Plan Your Visit to Great Harbor Yacht Club

Are you ready to experience the magic of Great Harbor Yacht Club? Plan your visit today and embark on an unforgettable journey in Nantucket, Massachusetts. Whether you're seeking relaxation, adventure, or a little bit of both, this premier marina has it all.

From its unparalleled facilities and amenities to its vibrant community and breathtaking views, Great Harbor Yacht Club is the perfect destination for boating enthusiasts and vacationers alike. So, pack your bags, set sail, and get ready to create memories that will last a lifetime at Great Harbor Yacht Club!

Nantucket Harbor North Anchorage

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Nantucket Moorings

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Old North Wharf

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Nantucket Town Pier

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Nantucket Yacht Club

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Great Harbor Yacht Club

96 Washington Street, Nantucket, MA 02554

Nantucket Climate Change Summit

Presented by Linda Loring Nature Foundation at Great Harbor Yacht Club

Sep 4, 2024

Geschke Lecture: Max Holmes (Environment) - Moderated by Kitty Pilgrim

Presented by Nantucket Atheneum, free public library at Great Harbor Yacht Club

Jul 25, 2024

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Nantucket Land & Water Council’s 8th Annual State of the Harbor Forum

Presented by Nantucket Land & Water Council at Great Harbor Yacht Club

Jul 18, 2024

Artists Association of Nantucket Gala

Presented by Artists Association of Nantucket at Great Harbor Yacht Club

Jul 13, 2024

Presented by Linda Loring Nature Foundation and ReMain Nantucket and Nantucket Conservation Foundation at Great Harbor Yacht Club

Sep 6, 2023

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    96 Washington Street, Nantucket, MA 02554

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© 2024 - Nantucket Cultural District - All Rights Reserved.

The Foundation is dedicated to promoting and preserving Nantucket Harbor and its marine ecosystem.

The great harbor yacht club foundation was formed in 2018 with an urgent goal in mind that affects the entire nantucket community..

The Foundation identifies and funds projects that meaningfully improve the health of the harbor and its marine ecosystem.

Improving the quality of our Harbor’s water and marine habitat is possible.

We are supported by scientific advisors with experience in eel grass, water quality, and shellfish population rehabilitation. With their guidance, we are focused on a healthier future for Nantucket Harbor.

Ready to take the next step?

There are so many ways to get involved with the Foundation. Click below to make a donation, volunteer, attend one of our events, or enroll in our community outreach programs. Nantucket Harbor needs your help today.

“The harbor is the vitality of the Club. On Friday night we gather for drinks by the harbor. We eat oysters from the head of the harbor. We look over the harbor as we dine from our decks. We race our boats in the harbor. Our kids fish in the harbor. In the fall we scallop in the harbor. Without a doubt, we are the direct beneficiaries of a clean and vibrant harbor.”

— Elliot Gewirtz, President of GHYCF

Join us in ensuring a healthy and beautiful Nantucket Harbor for generations to come.

Sign up to be the first to know about Great Harbor Yacht Club Foundation’s upcoming projects and events.

Great Harbor Yacht Club Buys Nobadeer Farm Road Property

Jason Graziadei • Sep 19, 2023

The Great Harbor Yacht Club has added to its real estate portfolio with its recent acquisition of 19 Nobadeer Farm Road, a deal that will impact several island businesses.

The yacht club closed on the property last Friday for $2.7 million, purchasing the one-acre parcel from island resident Dylan Wallace. The dwelling on the property - located behind the Small Friends early childhood education center - includes a two-bedroom, two-bath unit on the second floor, and a commercial kitchen on the first floor that is currently utilized by the Slow To Rise Bakery and Sushi Sean 11:11, along with Wallace’s Eat Fire Pizza.

The property is located a short distance away from Great Harbor Yacht Club’s existing tennis and swim club at 23 Nobadeer Farm Road. The club’s general manager Stephen Creese confirmed the acquisition but said it’s not yet clear how it will be used in the future.

“We have no definitive plan for the property and are exploring potential club-related uses,” Creese told the Current .

The Nantucket Land Bank held a right of first refusal to purchase the property but voted not to exercise the option, according to a waiver filed with the Nantucket Registry of Deeds.

Wallace said the sale was motivated by several considerations including his growing family, but that he intends to stay on-island and continue both Eat Fire Pizza and Eat Fire Farm. Wallace and his partner Caroline Borrelli have operated Eat Fire Farm since 2019 at the Land Bank’s Mount Vernon Farm property off Hummock Pond Road. The couple has found another property on-island that they will close on in the coming weeks, Wallace said.

“We feel very fortunate and very lucky,” Wallace said. “Everyone has been so gracious to us.”

The Great Harbor Yacht Club has agreed to lease the property at 19 Nobadeer Farm Road back to Wallace through September 2024, which will allow both Slow To Rise Bakery and Sushi Sean another season to operate there if they choose to. The bakery’s owners, Tucker Puljic and Katrina Newfrock, stated they are evaluating all their options now.

“Yes, 19 Nobadeer Farm Rd has sold but the buyer will be renting back the property to Dylan Wallace until October of 202,” they said. “So we theoretically have one more season to rent there, though we’re also keeping an eye on the 5 Amelia (Drive) space (being converted into a commissary kitchen and business incubator), and looking for an eventual retail location.”

Sean Durnin, owner of Sushi Sean, said he would be moving on when his lease at 19 Nobadeer Farm Road expires this fall, but planned to continue to operate around the island.

"I haven't really heard too much about it other than it's been sold," Durnin said. "My lease is up at the end of October. I have had a great business relationship with Dylan and wish him well. Our friends at Yummy's (off Surfside Road) are leasing to us to continue our pop-up for the fall and into winter and then spring. Whatever next year brings, we will keep it thriving and exciting.

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Nantucket Yacht Club

Nantucket, massachusetts.

Located in the historic downtown harbor of Nantucket, this 100 year old Nantucket Yacht Club is a place where “traditions are honored and the past is respected.”  To uphold the glory of this notable club, a large-scale renovation project was required.  Working closely with the membership and the town’s Architectural Review Board, MPFA utilized a master plan and phased construction timeline to infuse extensive changes into the existing structure.  From all-encompassing infrastructure retrofits and new support facilities (kitchen and bath) to rehabilitated dining areas and new member spaces, the heart of the design is a renewed facility that maintains the historic nature of traditional Nantucket architecture.

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One Design Fleets

The Nantucket Alerions are 26-foot cold molded sloops that are largely based upon the 1913 design of Nathaniel Herreshoff's personal boat called "Alerion". His design was modified by Club member Alfie Sanford, who founded Sanford Boat works and from 1977 to 1983 built 22 of these beautiful and iconic Nantucket sailing craft on Nantucket. Since then construction of hulls has continued under license from Sanford Boat Works. The Nantucket Alerion Fleet Association represents a vast majority of the current owners of the over 20 Alerions currently on island.

The Nantucket Alerion with its keel/centerboard design is an ideal boat for Nantucket waters capable of navigating our harbor's shallows all the way to Wauwinet, but at the same time easily capable of an exhilarating offshore sail on Nantucket Sound.

Herreshoff 12 1/2

The first H 12½ footer boats were built in 1914 by Herreshoff Mfg. Co, of Bristol, RI, from the original design of Nathanael G. Herreshoff. In 1914, the 15 footers had grown into a sizable class, but were found to be a bit too much to handle by youngsters. Emmons and a group of friends approached Mr. Herreshoff to create a smaller boat suitable for their children to sail, especially in chal­lenging Buzzards Bay wind and sea conditions and to become familiar with the characteristics of the type of larger sailboats to which they might graduate later on. The resultant boat was the Herreshoff 12½ footer, and our great class was born. It is unlikely that in 1914 or 1915 the genius of Nathanael G. Herreshoff or the inspiration of Mr. Emmons could have foretold the unique popularity and longevity of the design we have now seen for more than 100 years. As was his custom, Mr. Herreshoff designed the 12½ by making a half model of the hull and then recorded measured offsets from the model. The offsets were used to build a series of skeletal mold frames in the build­ing shop, and the framing and planking of the hull were then formed on and around the skeleton. The hulls were thus fashioned in an upside-down position, then removed from the mold frames, turned right-side up on their keels and completed. The mold frames were re-used to build successive hulls with the same con­trolled procedure, assuring the desired uniformity from boat to boat. No lines drawings or construction plans were necessary. Mr. Her­reshoff would specify, in detail, the sizes and types of all the materials to be used, and the workmen assigned to the job would repeat their process in each stage of construction under Mr. Herreshoff’s supervision, right down to all the special hardware, designed by Captain Nat and cast in the shop foundry. Today, H Class boats can be found all over the United States, as well as Canada (Nova Scotia, Ontario, and Vancouver), Europe (England, France, and Norway), New Zealand, Bermuda, St. Barth’s, and Saudi Arabia.

- From www.herreshoff12.org/

The Indian has a long history on Nantucket. An Alden centerboard knockabout with an interesting underwater configuration is the Nantucket One-Design, Number 398. Designed for use not only on Nantucket Sound but also at Kennebunkport, Maine, Number 398 was a development of the earlier Number 135, called the Jamestown Class, and Number 148, the first Indian class. Indeed, the Nantucket boats were also called Indians. Number 148, in turn, was a refinement of the round-bottomed dory type of daysailer. The Nantucket One-Design was conceived by Buell P. Mills and other members of the Nantucket Yacht Club. Mills, who was then rear commodore of the club, presented Alden with the basic requirements, and between them they worked out the specifications. Most of the boats were built by George L. Chassion of Swampscott, Massachusetts, between 1929 and 1931.

- From the ITCH Report

Born in the halcyon days post WWII, the Rhodes 19 evolved during the next fifty years in response to advancing technology. Adaptability has enabled the boat and its class organization to enter the twenty-first century as a successful, exciting one-design sailing racer, day boat and cruiser, supported by a strong national following. available with centerboard or keel, Rhodes 19s have provided countless hours of enjoyment to thousands of owners, charterers and novice sailors, in and out of structured programs. This all-purpose one-design boat has proved an ideal platform for national championships, the sears cup, the Adams cup the Mallory cup, the Prince of Wales match races and their elimination series.

Marshall Cat 15

The Sandpiper (Marshall 15) is a scaled down version of the Sanderling (Marshall 18). She is the Club's newest fleet and its most rapidly growing. Since her introduction to the Club's racing program in 2013 the fleet has grown from three to an anticipated seven this current season.

The Marshall 15 was designed for ease of handling and dependability. With an optional hinged mast, lifting bridle and pad eyes, she is relatively easy to launch and take out at the club hoist. There is a Sandpiper Class Association and in 2012 she was made a one-design class member of US Sailing. Racing fleets are established in Florida, New Jersey and New England.

The first boat was built in 1972. Hull #1 is still owned by Geoff Marshall and was sailed competitively in the nationals the past two years. As an introduction of the fleet 12 boats were then built for an invitational regatta with, among others, Ted Turner, Gary Jobson, Robbie Doyle participating.

The Sandpiper fills a niche for club sailors that want to race in an easy to sail boat that at the same time is relatively dry and capable in the varying wind conditions of Nantucket Harbor. With her shallow draft, and ease of rigging she is a wonderful family boat and ideal for a picnic on Coatue.

Marshall Cat 18

Catboats have had a long history sailing out of Cape Cod and the Islands dating back to the Late 1800's. Designed originally of wood, they were relied upon as spacious workboats to withstand strong winds, variable shoals and tides. In the early 1960's, Breck Marshall introduced the Sanderling, an 18 ‘, shoal draft, fiberglass interpretation of the best original catboat designs. He developed a simple and dependable family sailing vessel popular for those who enjoy day sailing, cruising or racing.

The Sanderling is perfect for the waters of Nantucket as its simplicity, large cockpit and shoal draft make it the perfect cruising and one design racing class. Ease of handling in most weather conditions, low maintenance and classic beauty appeal to cruisers and racers of all ages and abilities. The consistently popular Sanderling One Design Class has been racing Saturdays actively for over 20 years at the Nantucket Yacht Club as it is ideally suited to our harbor and the comradery of our Club!

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Weddings & Events

Special events.

Nestled in picturesque Nantucket Harbor, the Great Harbor Yacht Club's unique style of relaxed luxury, combined with its extraordinary waterside setting, creates a special event experience like no other. Perfect for intimate occasions to grand affairs, both our indoor and outdoor venues offer a range of possibilities for unforgettable Nantucket events.

From hosting a fairy tale wedding to a business meeting, our professional events staff will handle all the details for you. Inquire about hosting private events by contacting Sabrina Norton, Director of Events at [email protected] or filling out the form below.

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Member Testimonials

Wow!!! I am just blown away � this event was all I could have ever hoped for. The food was tremendous. I had heard nothing but positive comments throughout the evening, and the wines and food worked so well together

Many thanks for such a fabulous event. Everything was perfect. Our members are very fortunate to have such terrific GHYC staff!

Many many thanks to you and to your staff!!! Our group loved the club and the fabulous party we threw at GHYC. Thanks again for all your attention to detail and assistance!

Thank you so much for making our Starry Night (Boat Barn Ball) such a stellar success. It was your attention to detail and incredible follow through and unparalleled equanimity that made it happen in such a fun, wonderful, professional way.

You were very kind to my special guests. Thank you for your great attitude and attention to detail.

Meet Our Event Team

Sabrina norton, event director.

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