new york yacht club initiation fee

How Much Does a New York Yacht Club Membership Cost?

The New York Yacht Club, said to be the best club in the world by sailors, is located in New York City and New Port, Rhode Island.  It was founded in 1844 by a group of yachtsmen at the time.

The club was established in 1844, making it one of the oldest clubs in New York.

To date, the club has more than 3,000 members, and membership to the club is by invitation only.

How much does a New York Yacht Club membership cost?

Being a private club, the fees are not publically known, but from our research from third-party sources, we found the membership fees are said to be said to be low $xx,xxx annually and the initiation dues are said to be less than $25,000.  These are estimates given by a third-party source and cannot be deemed accurate.  Refer to the club for more information on the exact pricing.

To join the club, a potential member has to be nominated by a current club member, and as a requirement, the applicant needs to have applicable boating experience and three letters of recommendations.  If approved for membership, the new member is allowed to attend a reception ceremony at the Harbor Court, weather permitting in spring or at the clubhouse at 44th street in the fall.  To read more about the club’s application procedure and by-laws, you can refer to this official PDF.

New York Yacht Club overview

The headquarters offers high-end dining options, patios and libraries filled with books from floor to ceiling, according to Investopedia .  As per BusinessInsider.com , the primary clubhouse also features the  Model Room , which is a room featuring a massive display of model ships.

Tips to know

The club’s headquarters, a six-story stone-front building, is located on 44th street in Manhattan.  Aside from this location, as mentioned, the club offers a located on the water in Newport, Rhode Island.

The club is known for starting the  Americas Cup  yacht race.

54 percent of the members are yacht owners as per the official brochure.  Of these, 1,116 are sailboards and 614 are powerboats.  The rest are yachts ranging from 22 to 289 feet long.

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How Much Does a New York Yacht Club Membership Cost?

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If you are thinking about joining the New York Yacht Club, you are probably wondering how much it costs to become a member. The answer is that it depends on the type of membership you are interested in and the initiation fee, which varies depending on factors such as age, military service, and connections to existing members.

The New York Yacht Club offers several types of membership, including regular, intermediate, junior, and honorary. Regular membership is the most expensive, with an initiation fee of $150,000 and annual dues of $12,000. Intermediate membership has a lower initiation fee of $7,500 and annual dues of $6,000, but is only available to those between the ages of 21 and 39. Junior membership has an initiation fee of $1,000 and annual dues of $1,000, but is only available to those under the age of 21. Honorary membership is by invitation only and does not require an initiation fee or annual dues.

Membership in the New York Yacht Club comes with a number of benefits, including access to the Club’s facilities, which include dining rooms, bars, meeting rooms, and sailing centers. Members also have access to the Club’s extensive library, archives, and art collection. In addition, the Club organizes numerous social events throughout the year, including regattas, dinners, and receptions.

The process for becoming a member of the New York Yacht Club begins with a nomination by an existing member. The nomination must be supported by at least four other members and include a statement of the nominee’s qualifications. After the nomination is received, the Membership Committee reviews it and determines whether to invite the nominee to submit an application. The application must be accompanied by letters of recommendation and other supporting documents. The Membership Committee then reviews the application and makes a recommendation to the Board of Directors, which has final approval.

The dress code at the New York Yacht Club is formal, especially in the dining areas. Men are expected to wear jackets and ties, while women are expected to wear dresses or suits.

The minimum age for regular membership in the New York Yacht Club is 40. However, there are other types of membership, including intermediate and junior memberships, that are available to younger individuals.

Membership in the New York Yacht Club requires a significant time commitment, particularly for those who are involved in sailing activities. Members are expected to participate in regattas and other events, and to contribute to the Club’s activities and programs.

Yes, there is usually a waiting list for membership in the New York Yacht Club, particularly for regular membership. The length of the waiting list varies depending on the type of membership and other factors.

To be eligible for intermediate membership in the New York Yacht Club, an individual must be between the ages of 21 and 39 and have a sponsor who is a regular member of the Club. Intermediate members have full access to the Club’s facilities and events, but are not eligible to vote or hold office.

Memberships in the New York Yacht Club are transferable, but the transfer process is subject to approval by the Board of Directors. The transfer fee is based on the current value of the membership and is paid by the new member.

Membership in the New York Yacht Club is a binding commitment, and cancellations and refunds are not generally available. However, there are some circumstances under which a member may be released from the commitment, such as a move to a distant location or a significant change in financial circumstances.

Yes, military veterans are eligible for a discount on the initiation fee for regular membership in the New York Yacht Club. The discount is based on the individual’s length of military service.

The New York Yacht Club is one of the most prestigious and influential sailing clubs in the world. The Club has a long history of promoting excellence in sailing and has been involved in many important events and initiatives in the sailing community, including the America’s Cup and the U.S. Sailing Team.

The New York Yacht Club Foundation is a charitable organization that is dedicated to supporting sailing and marine conservation initiatives. The Foundation provides funding for a variety of programs and projects, including youth sailing programs, sailing education, and marine science research.

The New York Yacht Club was founded in 1844 and quickly became one of the most influential and prestigious sailing clubs in the world. The Club has played a significant role in the development of sailing as a sport and has been involved in many important events and initiatives in the sailing community. The Club’s facilities, which include its iconic clubhouse in New York City and several sailing centers throughout the United States, are among the finest in the world.

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How Much Does New York Yacht Club Membership Cost?

Founded in 1844 by a group of yachtsmen of the time, the New York Yacht Club is one of the oldest clubs in New York. Sailors say that this is the best yachting club in the world. It is located in New Port, Rhode Island, and New York City.

By now, the club has more than three thousand members and the membership is available only by invitation.

 How Much Does New York Yacht Club Membership Cost?

The costs for joining the New York Yacht Club are not publicly available because this is a private club. However, based on our research, the initiation fee is less than $26,000 , while the annual membership fees are pretty low as well. These are just some estimates offered by a third-party source and can not be considered accurate. You should contact the club directly to find out more information about the exact costs.

According to several websites, the cost of membership depends on the one you choose as the club offers multiple options, including honorary, regular, junior, and intermediate membership. For instance, the Regular Membership is the most expensive one, with annual dues of $12,000 and an initiation fee of $26,000 .

The Intermediate Membership is only available for those who are between 21 and 39 years old and has annual costs of $6,000 and an initiation fee of $7,500. The Junior Membership is available only if you are under 21 years old. The annual costs for this membership level are $1,000 and the initiation fee is $1,000 as well. The Honorary Membership is available only by invitation and does not require annual dues or an initiation fee.

About the New York Yacht Club and Clubhouse

According to the Investopedia.com website, the headquarters provides high-end dining options, libraries filled with many books, and patios.

You might also like our articles on the cost of membership at the Freedom Boat Club , Ocean Reef Club , or Carefree Boat Club .

Also, according to BusinessInsider.com, the primary clubhouse has a Model Room, that features a very large display of model ships.

The New York Yacht Club is known for starting the Americas Cup yacht race.

The headquarters of the New York Yacht Club is located on 44 th Street in Manhattan, in a six-story stone-front building. As we mentioned above, aside from this location, the club has one more location on the water in Newport, Rhode Island.

Important things to consider

Also, you will be required to have three letters of recommendation and applicable boating experience. If you are approved for membership, you will be allowed to attend a reception ceremony organized at the New York Harbor Court, in spring if the weather permits it, or in the fall at the Clubhouse at 44 th Street.

Usually, there is a waiting list for the New York Yacht Club membership, particularly for the Regular Membership. The length of the waiting list would vary depending on the type of membership and other factors.

As a member of the New York Yacht Club , you will have several benefits such as access to the facilities of the club, which include sailing centers, dining rooms, meeting rooms, and a bar. Also, you will get access to the Club’s art collection, impressive library, and archives. Moreover, the Club organizes several social events throughout the year, including receptions, regattas, and dinners.

You can transfer your New York Yacht Club Membership to somebody else, but the transfer process must be approved by the Board of Directors. There is a transfer fee that is based on the current membership value and must be paid by the new member.

In general, refunds and cancellations are not available as membership in this club is a binding commitment. However, in some specific situations, such as a significant change in a member’s financial situation or a move to a distant location, the membership can be canceled.

The club has a formal dress code, especially in the dining areas. Women should wear suits or dresses, while men should wear ties and jackets.

According to the official club’s brochure, 54% of the members own a yacht. 614 out of these are powerboats and 1,116 are sailboards. The rest of these are yachts with a length that ranges from 22 to 289 feet.

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PRESENTING: 9 Exclusive Clubs That Wall Streeters Are Dying To Get Into

Sometimes even the Masters of the Universe need their own sanctuary from the high-flying world of Wall Street.

Enter Manhattan's exclusive members-only clubs.  

No, we're not talking about the ones behind the velvet ropes, but instead the ones you might not even notice when you walk by.

These hideaways, which tend to come with steep fees and require an invite to join, usually offer members a place to dine, relax and hangout.  They also have some pretty sweet amenities, too.  

What's more is many of these clubs prohibit business meetings and the use of cellphones offering a reprieve from the work day.  Others, however, aren't so strict on conducting business.     

So we've decided to select ten of the city's most exclusive clubs and detailed why they would be ideal for the Wall Street crowd.

Getting into the club is up to you. 

Angler's Club

Location:  101 Broad Street (Financial District)

About:   The club was established in 1906 by members of the fly-fishing community.

Amenities:   The 2,500-square-foot downtown club headquarters features a private 65-seat dining room. The club serves lunches daily for members and guests Monday-Friday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.   According to  Forbes ,  the club has "perhaps the best angling library in the world."

Dress code:   Jackets required.

For The Street:   Not only is the club's headquarters located in the heart of the Financial District just blocks from the exchange, but some pretty impressive Wall Streeters have been spotted there including hedge fund legend Paul Tudor Jones , Blackstone's president Hamilton "Tony" James and Silver Lake Partners co-founder Glenn Hutchins . 

Membership:   In 2011, DNAInfo reported that the club has ~600 members from around the world.  Those fly-fishing enthusiasts who want to join have to be invited to the club through introduction of a current member.  While women are allowed to visit and be employed by the club, they're reportedly not allowed to be card-carrying members .

Source: DNAInfo  &  Forbes

The Core Club

Location:  60 East 55th Street 

About: As   The New York Times  put it  "At the Core Club, members have things more unusual in common than Mayflower bloodlines or shared memories of freshman year at Deerfield." Basically, the Core Club is for the ultra-wealthy.

Amenities:   The Core Club has its own restaurant, terrace, bar, lounge and private dining room.  As a member you can have access to speakers, rare art and artists, a satellite office that you can expense, a spa, salon & barber, fitness studio and a screening room.   You also get the keys to some sick sports cars the club rents for its members every year.

Dress code:  While most other clubs maintain strict dress codes, the Core Club allows its members to wear jeans if they choose.   

For The Street:  Chances are at the Core Club you'll be able to rub elbows with the likes of Steve Schwarzman and you  might get the chance to meet the best financiers in the world, like  George Soros, Woody Johnson, and Carl Icahn , who spoke to club members last year.  The late Bruce Wasserstein and the late Ted Forstmann were both members.  Perhaps another reason it's ideal for the Street is unlike most other dining/social clubs you can actually use your electronic devices and hold business meetings.

Membership:  The cost is a $50,000 initiation fee and $15,000 a year to join. 

Source: NYTimes Source: Business Insider   Core Club

The Down Town Association

Location:  60 Pine Street, between William and Pearl Streets (Financial District)

About:  The DTA is the fifth oldest private club in Manhattan and it was initially opened as a luncheon club catering toward the brokers and financiers crowd and later the legal community.  Today the DTA focuses on a younger generation, too. 

Amenities:    In addition to lunches, today the DTA offers breakfast, dinner service and evening drinks, a wine cellar, pool tables and a fitness center.  

Dress code:  Coats and neckties are required in the main dining room and for Wednesday and Thursday dinner.  Otherwise it's business casual.  

For The Street: Location. Location. Location. For the finance crowd, this social club is conventient because it's close to Deutsche Bank's New York offices and it's near the New York Stock Exchange.  It's also not a far walk for those at the World Financial Center or Goldman Sachs. 

Membership:   Both men and women can be members.

Source: The DTA

The New York Yacht Club

Location:  37 West 44th Street (Midtown)

About:  The New York Yacht Club was founded in 1844 by a group of yachtsmen.  The club is also known for starting the Americas Cup yacht race .

Amenities:  The primary clubhouse features what is called a  "Model Room," which features a massive display of model ships  as well as a library and a grill room . Apart from the NYYC's beautiful nautical-themed clubhouse in Midtown, the group also has a base called "Harbour Court" in Newport, Rhode Island. 

For The Street:  The New York Yacht Club's prominent members (past and present) include JP Morgan and Mayor Michael Bloomberg. Oh, and convicted ponzi schemer Bernie Madoff was a member, but he has since resigned.  Another perk of membership is that big names might come to speak.  For example, bond god Jeff Gundlach, the founder DoubleLine Capital, recently gave a presentation to investors at the New York Yacht Club.

Membership:   Invitation only.

Sources: New York Travel Trips ;  New York Yacht Club

The New York Athletic Club

Location:    180 Central Park South

About:  It's a private social and athletic club founded in 1896 as a place for accomplished athletes.  

Amenities:  The club boasts training facilities including a fitness center, swimming pool, basketball courts, boxing rings, squash and racquetball courts and places to practice fencing and judo.  There's also a library, card room and billiards room in addition to dining areas.  There's also a clubhouse on Travers Island located in Westchester County. 

Dress code:   Business casual attire, with jacket and collared shirt, is required in public areas from Monday through Friday.  Women are expected to dress in a similar formality. 

For The Street: Wall Street has a reputation for employing the super competitive people, many of whom happen to be  stellar athletes , which makes the NYAC an ideal place for them to exhibit their athleticism.  

Membership: It costs a reported $8,500 to join and more than $3,000 a year for a membership.   Both men and women can join.  Members (there's about 8,600 ) are top notch athletes from disciplines such as track & field, lacrosse, basketball, swimming, wrestling, rowing, etc.  What's more is the club's members throughout its existence have won 119 Olympic gold medals, 53 silver medals and 59 bronze medals. (Impressive)

Source: NYAC 

The Union Club

Location:  East 69th Street and Park Avenue (Upper East Side)

About:  The Union Club, which was established in 1836, is the oldest private club in New York City.  

Amenities:   The historic Union Club building offers five dining areas, squash courts, a card room and a backgammon room.  

Dress code: Jackets and ties are required for men and women have to dress in a similar formality. Those who wish to play squash are supposed to wear white clothing and collared shirts on the courts. 

For the Street:  As the oldest private club in New York, the Union Club has been described as "an old boys club," so if that's your style it might be an ideal place to join. 

Membership:  Annual membership fees are reportedly $5,000.   

Source: New York Times ;  Page Six Magazine   Union Club  

The Metropolitan Club

Location: 60th Street and Fifth Avenue 

About: Famed financier J.Pierpont Morgan, the club's first president, founded the Metropolitan Club in 1891 after one of his friend's was denied membership to the Union Club.  

Amenities:    One of the highlights of the Metropolitan Club is the rooftop dining offering views of Central Park. 

Dress code:   " Gentlemen are required to wear jackets and ties at all times (turtlenecks and ascots are not acceptable). Appropriate attire for ladies is dresses, skirts, dressy pant suits and business pant suits. Jeans, shorts, stirrup pants, leggings, stretch pants, tight pants, sweats and T-shirts are absolutely not acceptable," according to the club's website.

For The Street: It was founded by J.P. Morgan, 'nuff said.

Membership:  It's open to both men and women.  The private social club is said to cost a reported $5,000 a year.

Source:  Page Six Magazine ,  Metropolitan Club  

Union League Club

Location: 38 East 37th Street between Madison and Park (Murray Hill)

About:  The Union League Club, which was formed in 1863, is rich in history.  The club was founded by a group of men who wanted to preserve the Union.  They were  instrumental in establishing The Metropolitan Museum of Art in 1870 as well as the Sanitary Commission -- a predecessor organization to the American Red Cross.

Amenities:  There are overnight rooms, squash courts, a gym, dining facilities and pool tables on site.  According to a Yelp reviewer, there's a golf simulator on the fourth floor (How cool is that?).   

Dress code:   Business attire, jacket and tie for men and equally formal attire for women, is required throughout the Union League on weekdays between Labor Day and Memorial Day. It's a little more casual during the summer.  

For The Street:  Who doesn't want to get out of the office? Members can go on  outings outside the club such as theater, golf, shooting and wine tasting,  according to a Yelp review .   The Union League Club also offers speakers and events, both of which can be great for networking.    

Membership:  Fees unknown.

Source: The Union League Club

The University Club

Location:   1 West 54th Street

About:   The club was chartered in 1865 and its origins go back to 1861 when a group of college friends, mostly Yale alumni, wanted to form a group to extend their college ties.

Amenities:   Like most members-only clubs, the University Club offers dining, overnight accommodations  athletic facilties such as squash/racquetball courts.  However, there's one thing that most others don't have (anymore) -- nude swimming.  According to a NYTimes' article, nude swimming is allowed for male-members only .  

Dress code:    Men are required to wear jackets, dress shirts and ties. Women are required to wear clothing meeting similar standards -- suits, dresses and skirts or tailored trousers with dress shirts, blouses or sweaters. 

For The Street : The club labels itself as the "premier club of New York," so what Wall Streeter wouldn't want to be seen there? Also, many finance-related panels and events are held at the club, so it's a good place to rub elbows with the best of the industry.

Membership: Both men and women can be members of the University Club.  The fees are kept underwraps. 

Sources: NYTimes  , Page Six Magazine ,   University Club

Want to see inside one of these clubs?

Check Out An Exclusive Tour Of The Amazing Club Where Billionaires Like Steve Schwarzman Hang Out >

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New York Yacht Club

Today’s New York Yacht Club is, Commodore Lawrence Huntington says, “a far cry from white-haired businessmen having lunch in February in Manhattan.” It is no longer, as it was for most of its existence, a paradox: a yacht club with no permanent waterfront presence, only a midtown address, on West 44th Street between 5th and 6th avenues. With a clubhouse in Newport, R.I., that has become a popular summer destination, the club now attracts more young sailors into its fold than ever before.

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Even before the 1988 addition of the Newport clubhouse, the 160-year-old club could argue it was the world’s preeminent yachting association. “As the yacht club was the earliest and only organization to have a national scope, thinkers and influential people in the sport tended to convene under the banner of the New York Yacht Club,” says Huntington. “It became established as the place where that influence would be wielded, and I think that persists to this day.”

John Cox Stevens, the club’s founder and first commodore, owned the schooner America, which, in 1851, bested a fleet of English competitors, caught the attention of Queen Victoria, and inspired the launch of the America’s Cup race. From 1851 through 1983, the club successfully defended the trophy 25 times.

However, after losing the America’s Cup to Australia in 1983, the officers of the NYYC realized that their organization’s identity had depended too heavily on its stewardship of the trophy. Younger sailors, especially those not living in New York, were joining clubs with waterfront properties, while the NYYC was fast becoming a creaky watering hole where Manhattan bankers would talk business rather than sailing over their cocktails.

The rejuvenation process began when the club acquired Harbour Court in Newport, once the summer home of John Nicholas Brown, of the Brown University Browns. By providing members with access to the steady winds and deep waters of Rhode Island Sound, Harbour Court quickly transformed the club’s character. “The club used to be a place where people met in the wintertime and convened for parties and dinners, and by definition, that meant an older crowd,” Huntington says.

Like its Harvard Club neighbor, the 44th Street clubhouse, which was designed by Grand Central Station architect Whitney Warren, still serves as a traditional, jacket-and-tie midtown club. It includes a full bar, leather couches, rooms for overnight guests, and a musty library full of noteworthy nautical volumes. The Model Room, the centerpiece of the West 44th Street clubhouse, contains close to 1,300 miniature ships mounted on the walls or enclosed in glass cases. Downstairs, the dining room, which is shaped like the interior of a hull, is popular for weekday lunches and pretheater dinners. Here, conversation, regardless of its initial direction, usually turns to boating.

At Harbour Court, about 200 miles northeast of midtown, the atmosphere is decidedly different. Deck shoes and polo shirts are part of the weekend dress code, and children are welcome to play outside on the sun-washed and wind-lashed grounds. As is the case at the 44th Street clubhouse, business conversations are discouraged in Harbour Court’s common areas, and cell phones are prohibited.

For decades, because it lacked an on-water facility, the New York Yacht Club was usually a member’s second club; Huntington himself, who lives in New York, belongs to the Indian Harbor Yacht Club in Greenwich, Conn. Now the NYYC has become the primary club for new members, who are continuing the annual tradition of sailing in the Newport-to-Bermuda regatta (2004 marked the event’s 150th anniversary) and the New York–to-Newport cruise. In May 2005, the club will host the Rolex Transatlantic Challenge, a race from New York Harbor to the English Channel that is open to single-hull sailboats 70 feet and longer.

Harbour Court also hosts the national championships of Optimist Prams, which are small boats used as training vessels for children as young as 3 years old. “You can’t imagine a bigger change for the New York Yacht Club than to have hundreds of 7- and 8-year-old Optimist sailors having a competition on its home dock,” says Huntington. “It’s terrific.”

Despite the changes to the club over the years, one element has remained constant: the power of the burgee, the flag with the blue background, red cross, and white star that only members can fly aboard their boats. The NYYC brand is so guarded that members are discouraged from even giving a hat sporting the burgee to a nonmember. The story goes that when a boat flying the club’s burgee approaches a marina anywhere in the world, the dockmaster will quickly find room for the vessel. “Members are proud to fly the burgee,” Huntington says with modesty. “How do others perceive them? I’ll leave that to them.”

Joining the Club

To become a member, a candidate must be nominated by an existing member. While ownership of a vessel is not required, a candidate must be familiar with boats and should have accomplished a significant achievement in boating. “You could be Tiger Woods and not be able to get in the New York Yacht Club if you hadn’t demonstrated anything other than being a gentleman and a super golfer,” says Commodore Lawrence Huntington. “There has to be an interest and an involvement in the sport; then the process is like any other association.”

Once an applicant has been nominated by a member, he or she meets with the membership committee. Upon approval of the application, a new member can attend a reception ceremony at either Harbour Court (in the spring) or 44th Street (in the fall). New members are traditionally given carnations to wear and are welcome to bring their families to the ceremony. The club does not disclose annual membership dues.

212.382.1000

www.nyyc.org

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C lub Facilities

Our facilities are located at Liberty Harbor Marina in Jersey City. This location is easily reached by public transportation, ferries and car. Our land-based Clubhouse features a grass lawn and several decks where Members can relax on rocking chairs. If you live in an apartment, our Clubhouse will become your backyard and outdoor terrace.

Members love to relax at the Clubhouse and escape the bustle of city life. After races, teams gather around the BBQs and cook dinner. On weekends, Members enjoy the cushioned benches below the sun awning. The social connections and friends you make at the Manhattan Yacht Club will become an important part of your life.

“I wish to be a member for the sailing first and foremost. I intend to continue learning through sailing and eventually skipper boats recreationally. In addition to the on-water experience, I wish to join Manhattan Yacht Club for the social aspects off-water. I’ve recently moved to NYC and would love to engage with others who have shared interests.”    – Conner

We are an active Club and Members love sailing. From our Club’s beginning in 1987, we have maintained a fleet of J/24s which is available for all Members to use. You can sail at our Club without owning a boat. The Club currently keeps 13 white J/24s on floating docks in front of the Clubhouse. These boats are all professionally maintained to high standards. There are also an additional 10 red J/24s which are used for our sailing school.

“I have been to Manhattan Yacht Club on several occasions. All of my dealings with staff have been tremendous, courteous and extremely professional. The Manhattan Yacht Club has a prestigious reputation with a community/family feel with many activities and social connections. I want to expand my network of sailing enthusiasts whilst continuing my education through the school. I believe my membership with MYC would incredibly enrich my passion for sailing and it would be an honor to be a member.”    – Bonnie

In addition to the original shared-use fleet, Members are now adding private boats to the Club. These include cruising boats as well as the new fleet of International One Designs plus Sunfish dinghies.

Racing Programs

MYC is renowned for our racing programs. There are Member J/24 races on Tuesday and Wednesday evenings and a corporate sailing league on Thursdays. The IOD fleet races on Wednesday evenings and Saturday afternoons.

“MYC has a great reputation and I experienced some of it’s fantastic sailing community vibes. I would like to bring in my dedication and knowledge to this very special community.  I always try to keep the team together and am of course also keen to help setting up social events for the sailing community.”   – Anja

The Sunfish dinghies race on Saturday afternoons.

There is even an affiliated program which races historic America’s Cup 12 Meters. In winter, the Club organizes a Frostbite Series for Sunfish dinghies. Every few years, we organize the Lady Liberty Regatta and the International Yacht Club Challenge.

Cruising Programs

Each year, many new sailors join our Club with some of them coming from Manhattan Sailing School. After discovering the sport of sailing, people want to gain more experience. Our Club J/24s sail seven days a week from May until October. We have a very popular “Fleet Captain Program” where Skippers volunteer to take fellow Members sailing. This is a great way for new sailors to get involved in the Club, improve their skills and begin making sailing connections. There is also an active Day Sailing League.

“My experience at the sailing school reflected very positively on the club. The instructors themselves, the other MYC members and leadership who spoke on calls, and the members we ran into at the club over the weekend were all welcoming, encouraging, and friendly. This club feels like a great place to get back into sailing. I was also impressed by the club’s fleet of boats and the structured programs in place to grow sailing skills (my experience with the sailing school makes me excited to get sailing again in the fleet captain program).”    – Marc

Mentor Program

Our Club also has a strong educational philosophy. In addition to the Fleet Captain Program which turns novices into seasoned crew, we have a Mentor Program. This is where Club Skippers work with aspiring sailors to improve their skills with the goal of passing our Skipper Certification Test.

“I wish to be a member because I thoroughly enjoyed my time doing the weekend Basic Sailing course and learned a lot. I would like to continue to learn and improve my skills and I think the Manhattan Yacht Club is the best place to do that. I appreciate that you have a mentoring program where experienced sailors can impart their wisdom on newer sailors, and like that the club does multiple social events.”   – Nina

Honorable William Wall

Manhattan Yacht Club’s first major clubhouse is called the “Honorable William Wall” and it is anchored in the harbor near Ellis Island. This clubhouse serves as a spectator platform for the sailboat races and is open from Tuesday through Saturday. This clubhouse is affectionately known as the “Willy Wall” and features an open air bar on the upper deck. MYC Members receive 50% off all drinks at the Willie Wall, just show your membership card! This Clubhouse is also open to the public and used for corporate events. There is a $20 launch fee to reach the clubhouse and Members receive first option for signature events like the Full Moon Party. The Willy Wall is a super impressive place to entertain friends, family and co-workers, plus visitors from out of town.

“I wish to be a member of the Manhattan Yacht Club primarily to improve my sailing skills, and secondly to expand my social network of like-minded people. I was incredibly impressed by the welcoming nature of the members of the club and I’d like to get to know more members of the club.”    – Ian

Arabella is the Flagship of Manhattan Yacht Club. She is a 157-foot mega yacht which offers a luxurious atmosphere and a great place for high-end entertaining. Arabella is primarily used for private events and charters but she is also opened occasionally on an evening for Members. During the summer, Arabella also serves as the Club’s floating hotel. She will accompany the 12 Meter sailors to Newport for the World Championships. Next winter, Arabella will also travel to the Caribbean and Members can book a cabin onboard for a week of mega yachting.

“Growing up sailing was a great escape from the city and was an activity I really enjoyed. Once I started University, sailing became less of a priority and joining a club was difficult in my university. Now that I’ve moved to NYC and started a new job, having the opportunity to be out on the water and take a break from traditional city life, while meeting people who share an appreciation for sailing, would be wonderful.”   – Alexander

Member Community

Our community is an active, engaged and diverse group composed from all backgrounds. Our Members share a common passion for sailing. Almost all Members experience a significant increase in their recreational and social lives after joining Manhattan Yacht Club.

“I took my basic course with Parker, whose enthusiasm for sailing, and the club was so contagious! This seems exactly like the next step I need in order to learn, have fun, and make new friends.”   – Karen

Traveling With the Club

Sailing will take you around the world! Our Club usually organizes one or more international trips every year. In the winter, we organize “Caribbean Week” when Members fly to the Caribbean to sail in the sun for a week as part of a fun flotilla on chartered boats. In November, we head to Bermuda for a vacation and sailing on IODs. We send a team every two years to participate in Monaco Classic Week in September. We also send sailors to the 12 Meter Worlds in Newport RI.

“I really enjoyed my experience with the sailing course. I liked the people I met, the atmosphere of the club, and I’m excited about the events the club puts on. It seems like an excellent place to continue building my experience sailing. I am also excited about the global partnerships as I do like to travel.”   – Kristen

Other Social Events

Closer to home, our big annual social events are the Sailors Ball every April and the Annual Dinner every December. In between there are many gatherings at the Clubhouse, Full Moon Parties in the harbor plus BBQs almost every night during the sailing season.

“I live in Manhattan, and this seems like a great way for me to get more involved in sailing. I sailed my senior year of college, and I sailed J22s quite a bit last summer when I was living in Charleston. This club would be a great way for me to not only learn to race sailboats, but also to meet other individuals in the community who also enjoy sailing. After enrolling in the Manhattan sailing school, I think this would be a great segway into getting more active in the sailing community and growing my sailing knowledge and skillset.”    – Daniel

Dues & Initiation Fee

All Members begin by joining the Club as a Regular Member. This provides you with access to the Club community, facilities as well as the shared-use fleet of J/24s if you wish.

The initiation fee is $250. Regular dues are $1,700 per year and billed in quarterly installments. All dues and initiation fees are non-refundable once charged by the club.

Dues for your first year are pro-rated based on the sailing season. If you join from January through May, you pay normal dues. If you join in June, you pay 5/6 the annual dues. In July, you pay 4/6, August is 3/6, September is 2/6 and October is 1/6.

When viewing the graph below, please note that dues for 2024 remain the same as for 2023.

Juniors (25 and under) & Seniors (65 and older) also qualify for 50% off dues.

Members who wish to have Skipper Privileges on the Club fleet of J/24s pay an additional $800 per year. This allows you to reserve a boat and choose the friends you wish to take sailing.

Family Add-On

If you are married or have children under the age of 25, they are automatically granted non-sailing privileges under your membership. This means they can visit the Honorable William for Member Nights and take part in all club social events.  If your spouse and/or children under 25 also wish to be active sailing members and use the club boats and sailing programs like racing, fleet captain and mentoring, then there is a “Family Add-On” with dues of $425 per person per year (1/4 of the full regular dues).

“It’s a fantastic club at an amazing location, and everyone I’ve met so far has been so friendly and welcoming. With the opportunity to continue learning, and to hone my skills upon the most iconic waterway in the world, why wouldn’t I want to be a member?!”     – Edward

How To Join

It’s easy to join the Club. Just complete this on-line Membership Application & Agreement and specify the date you want your membership to begin and what Orientation Meeting you will attend.

“I thoroughly enjoyed the basic sailing course and I felt there is a great community and social side to MYC too as well as the opportunity to learn to sail. I was impressed by the number of programs and opportunities for new members to continue learning e.g. fleet captain program.”    – Lauren

If you have any questions about the club and how it works, or wish to see the facilities, please email  [email protected] before applying for membership. Once you are ready to join, complete the Membership Application & Agreement. Upon receipt, you will be charged the $250 initiation fee. This initiation fee is non-refundable in case you do not follow through with membership. Then once your membership begins, you can start sailing and hanging out at the club!

“I want to continue building on the basic sailing skills I learned with the Manhattan Sailing School, build my network and socialize with other members as I moved to New York last year. The events look like fun, and the Club is also easy to get to from Manhattan which is an added perk.”    – Stephanie

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Become a Member

Southwestern Yacht Club is continuously welcoming new applicants for membership who share boating interests, want to socialize or enjoy themselves as part of our active community. We have a variety of memberships that allow for everyone, individuals, couples and families, to have fun at Southwestern Yacht Club. Take a virutal tour of the Club!

As you fill out the  application , some questions may arise. We hope this will help clarify matters for you.

• Flag membership is available to any person 21 years of age or over who owns a boat not less than 14 feet overall in length. A Flag member is eligible to vote at meetings of the membership, hold elective office, and enter his/her boat in Club races.
• Regular membership is available to any person 21 years of age or over who does not own a boat. Regular members are not eligible for elective office nor shall they be entitled to vote on proposals other than dues and assessments.
• If you do not fall into either of these categories, please contact our Membership D irector   at 619-222-0438 x 111.  We can help you determine your membership category.
• Date of birth, employer and Social Security number are needed for the person in whose name the membership will be held.  We would like you to know that every attempt is made to keep your personal information private. Before your application is submitted to the Membership Committee or posted on the Club bulletin board, your date of birth and Social Security number are removed. SWYC will obtain a credit report as part of your application. Only the Club Manager, Club Treasurer and Membership Chair will review this report.
• Personal reference should be someone who is not a member of Southwestern Yacht Club.
• Yacht Club Sponsors must be two members in good standing, at least one of whom must hold a separate Flag, Regular or Life membership. They are required to fill out a confidential Southwestern Yacht Club Sponsor Form for you.
• Finally, you will get to the fun part - on the last page, circle the activities that interest you. Please include a short letter describing your boating experience and your interest in SWYC. Upon approval of your application, you will be placed in a Conditional membership for 12 months. Initiation fees must be paid in full when you are approved for Conditional Membership. During this first year, you must meet certain requirements, including involvement in two Club activities. You can meet this volunteer requirement by contacting the activity chairs who will be happy to involve you in their functions.

We hope the process goes smoothly for you. The Membership Committee looks forward to meeting you and processing your application. We wish you fair winds and following seas!  Cora Curry , Membership Committee Chair

Fee Schedule

Southwestern Yacht Club Bylaws require a 2/3 vote of the Flag members to raise its fees. Please see Article V, Section 15: A. Charges.  All initiation fees, dues, assessments, surcharges, dry storage fees, slip rental fees and locker rental fees shall be established by the Board of Directors, subject to approval by a two-thirds (2/3) vote of the Flag Membership, except that the Regular Membership may vote on dues and assessments only. A special meeting must be called for this purpose.  SWYC Fee Schedule

Sea Trial Program

For a limited time only, you can take a “Sea Trial” at Southwestern Yacht Club to see if membership is for you.

That’s right! A NO RISK TRIAL as our guest for six months with virtually all the benefits and pleasures of membership. You’re invited to partake of all the wonderful activities outlined in the New Member Information Package and, in addition, you’ll have the run of the bar and galley, the small boat hoist, use of the guest dock for your boat and the opportunity to meet all of the wonderful people who call Southwestern their “boating family”.  When your Sea Trial ends, we are sure you’ll want to continue to enjoy all that Southwestern has to offer. At this point you may convert your six month Sea Trial as our guest to Full Membership at Southwestern Yacht Club.  SEA TRIAL FLYER For more information contact the Membership Director about our Sea Trial Participant Program at 619-222-0438 ext 111 or by  email . 

To start the application process, please complete and send in the following membership application with two completed confidential sponsor forms.  

• PROSPECTIVE MEMBERSHIP APPLICATION
• SPONSOR FORM & GUIDELINES
• 2024 SCHEDULE OF FEES
• MEMBERSHIP CATEGORIES
• SEA TRIAL PARTICIPANT INFO
• JUNIOR MEMBERSHIP

How Much is a Yacht Club Membership? 3 Common Price Ranges

The cost of an annual yacht club membership can vary widely depending on several factors, such as the location of the club, the amenities offered, the exclusivity of the membership, and the size of the yacht being accommodated. We’ve compiled a set of guidelines below to help you estimate what you can expect to pay for an annual yacht club membership.

Local or Less Exclusive Yacht Clubs

These clubs might offer basic amenities such as docking facilities, a clubhouse, and some social events. Annual fees can range from a few hundred to a few thousand dollars. Membership fees could be as low as $500 to $2,000 per year.

Mid-Range Yacht Clubs:

These clubs may offer more extensive amenities, including high-quality dining facilities, repair and maintenance services, fitness centers, and a busy calendar of social and boating activities. Annual fees for these clubs can range from $3,000 to $10,000 or more.

Prestigious or Exclusive Yacht Clubs

The most exclusive yacht clubs, often located in prime locations with extensive facilities and services, can have annual membership fees that are significantly higher. These can range from $10,000 to $30,000 or more per year, with some of the most elite clubs costing even more. Additionally, these clubs might have initiation fees that can range from tens of thousands to hundreds of thousands of dollars.

It’s also important to note that many yacht clubs have additional costs beyond the annual membership dues. These can include initiation fees for new members, monthly minimum spending requirements at the club’s facilities, and additional fees for docking, storage, and maintenance services.

Additional Considerations

Some yacht clubs require yacht ownership as a prerequisite before being accepted into the club. Hence, while the yacht club membership itself might only be between $500 and $2,000, the true price of a yacht club membership might be tied to the cost of ownership of your yacht as well.

Bottom Line: Simply Ask If Interested

If you’re interested in joining a yacht club, make a list of yacht clubs that you might be interested in joining, and reach out to them via email or phone to get the most accurate and up-to-date information. Most yacht club members are quite friendly and are willing to help those who are interested in joining.

We wish you good luck in your yacht club search, and hope that you were able to find this article helpful.

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How Much Do Yacht Club Memberships Cost? (5 Helpful Examples)

Joining a yacht club is an important milestone in your life. It marks a certain degree of success and allows you to enjoy plenty of luxurious amenities. Setting sail on a yacht is the ultimate way to unwind from a hectic work week while you try to climb the corporate ladder.

Fortunately, there are yacht clubs all over the country that would love to welcome you as a brand-new member. You can enjoy an afternoon on the water with a beautiful yacht in exchange for a small sum of money.

But how much do Yacht Club memberships generally cost?

Prices for Yacht Clubs will vary based on your location, the fleet, and even the amenities that are offered at the marina. The average annual membership price is between $900-$4,000 depending on your level of luxury and needs.

To give you an idea of what you could expect to pay for your yacht club membership, here are some numbers gathered from across the country:

Table of Contents

What Does Each Yacht Club Offer?

Each yacht club is going to offer something that sets it apart from the others on this listing. To give you a better idea of where your money is going, here is a brief synopsis of what you can expect at each location.

Related Article: How Much Does Yacht Insurance Cost? (4 Examples)

Charleston Yacht Club

Charleston is a premier cruising destination with plenty of waterways for you to explore. They offer a launch hoist, dry slips, day dockage, free parking, and a long list of events scheduled throughout the year.

You also gain privileges at other yacht clubs around the world. If you don’t own your own yacht, they have plenty of members who often have room on their boats to accommodate a few extra passengers.

Florida Yacht Club

The Florida Yacht Club is a relatively exclusive club that features amazing amenities like fine dining and an array of aquatic activities.

You can play tennis, enjoy a spa treatment or massage, or get in a rousing game of croquet from the shore. They also host events and permit you to extend your privileges to other locations scattered around the Florida coast.

Atlanta Yacht Club

The Atlanta Yacht Club is primarily geared toward sailors who are interested in racing. They have a fleet of more than thirty different boats that are designed to help you further your knowledge of sailing.

If you still have a lot to learn, you can even take classes at this location. Prospective members must be sponsored and co-sponsored by two club members for entrance.

Related Article: 7 Boat Clubs in Florida You Should Know (Before Choosing)

Chicago Yacht Club

Members of the Chicago Yacht Club will find plenty of opportunities to get involved. With more than forty different committees, you can find a circle of friends that have common interests beyond just sailing and racing.

You also receive transient docking at both the Belmont and Monroe harbors, exclusive invites to private events, and reciprocity at more than 900 clubs across the country.

Related Article: Boat Clubs in Boston: 5 Clubs You Should Know

California Yacht Club

The California Yacht Club is home to both national and world championship regattas.

They host plenty of events from scuba club to book club to wine tastings. If you want to find a true community of like-minded sailors, this could be the place for you.

One of the best features is the reciprocity at locations not just across the United States but across the world. You can feel free to travel the world with your yacht and experience some of the same fellowship globally.

Related Article: Boat Clubs In Los Angeles: 7 Clubs You Should Know

What are the Cheapest Yacht Clubs?

The cheapest yacht clubs charge just under $1,000 per year for membership. While this does give you access to different types of experiences, you may be disappointed by the overall amenities.

Some yacht clubs are known for their extravagant country club styles that help you to embrace a particular lifestyle. They include Olympic-sized swimming pools, state-of-the-art tennis courts, and fine dining.

Everything has a beautiful waterfront view. It can feel like you are in the middle of an idyllic paradise without ever even having to leave the shore. If this is what you can gain from the most expensive yacht clubs, you should set your expectations much lower for the cheaper yacht clubs.

The cheaper yacht clubs lack the community aspect of these exclusive options. They feature dry slips and the occasional party, but not much more.

Some of them may have the feel of a county park with some picnic benches, outdoor grills, and a moderately sized swimming pool. Expect a much more casual atmosphere when you choose to go with a cheaper yacht club.

It is even possible that they are simply “paper yacht clubs” that do not even maintain a physical building of their own.

How Much Do the Most Expensive Yacht Clubs Cost to Join?

The most expensive yacht clubs can vary a great deal in price. Most of them will cost between $3,000 and $4,000 per year. However, you can certainly find more exclusive clubs that will cost above and beyond this.

Keep in mind that these more expensive clubs generally are not open to the public. They are offered by invitation only and you must have a member sponsor you to be considered for entrance.

When you are paying for a more expensive yacht club, you should make sure that you are really going to get your money’s worth. These expensive clubs promote a certain type of elegant lifestyle.

Make sure that you are planning to take advantage of all the amenities available from one of these clubs before you sink too much money into the membership fees. The social aspect of these expensive yacht clubs is extremely important.

If you plan to simply rent a boat from time to time, you might be able to go with a cheaper yacht club.

Related Article: How Long Do Sailboats Last?

What Is Generally Included in the Membership Fee for Yacht Clubs?

Have you been wondering why you should join a yacht club? Many potential members want to know what they can expect from their membership fees before they commit to a year-long contract. There are many advantages to signing up for a membership with a well-known yacht club.

Amenities and Activities

First and foremost, you get access to activities and cruises planned by board members. These might be various sailing activities, dinners, get-togethers, tennis matches, or other events that take up a lazy Sunday afternoon.

You also gain access to any amenities that surround the yacht club’s marina. For many programs, this means a fitness center, pool, and tennis courts. Several locations also offer fine dining, meeting rooms, and more.

It is like a private oasis where you can get away from the hustle and bustle of the regular world. Time moves slowly when you’re enjoying the amenities here.

Many yacht clubs have programs that introduce children (and adults!) to sailing. Take classes to learn more about improving your technique, sailing safety, and other important aspects of life on the open water.

Access to the Fleet

The main reason why most people join yacht clubs is to be able to rent out boats instead of purchasing their own. Joining a yacht club may give you access to an entire fleet of yachts that can be reserved for a day or weeks at a time. Some yacht clubs allow you to rent boats for up to ten days at a time.

Others do not allow you to rent out ships. They are primarily geared toward individuals who already own a yacht or will own a yacht in the future. Make sure you know the difference in advance.

Are There any Additional Costs Besides the Membership Fees?

Unfortunately, the membership fees are not the only cost associated with joining a yacht club. Most of the clubs in the United States also have a one-time initial fee that tends to cost thousands of dollars. Many will range from $1,500 to $5,000 depending on the location and the exclusivity of the yacht club.

This one-time fee should be the only additional money you pay except for fuel. Most yacht clubs do not cover the cost of the fuel used in the ship during your rental if renting is an option. Be prepared for what this could cost you.

If you cause damage to the ship, you can also expect some out-of-pocket costs. Insurance should cover the damage, but you will likely be asked to cover the cost of the deductible.

Be sure to inquire about how much you may be on the hook for before you sign up for any particular yacht club. Accidents can happen, even to the most experienced sailors. Make sure that you can afford the mishap in advance.

Is a Yacht Club Membership Right for You?

Understanding what the real cost of a yacht club membership is can be the first step toward determining if this is right for you. Many people love the luxuries available through the more expensive yacht clubs, but they may not be able to afford it. Consider what is most important in a club to you before deciding to sign on the dotted line for an annual membership.

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Stepping inside the super-exclusive New York Yacht Club where the America's Cup race started - complete with a 25ft tall fireplace, an original Tiffany glass ceiling and $150,000 joining fee

• The New York Yacht Club at 37 W 44th St formally opened its doors on January 19, 1901
• It was designed Whitney Warren of Warren and Wetmore, who later masterminded Grand Central Terminal
• Standout features include a dining room designed to look like a ship's hold and a library with 13,000 books 

By Sadie Whitelocks For Dailymail.com

Published: 12:33 EDT, 24 November 2023 | Updated: 13:02 EDT, 24 November 2023

View comments

Standing 25ft high and 15ft wide, the 25-ton stone fireplace at the super-exclusive New York Yacht Club is certainly a sight to behold and I felt dwarfed by the structure as I stood close to the flame-licked hearth.

This design marvel was just one of the many jaw-dropping features I spied during a private tour of the Midtown members-only club, which formally opened its doors on January 19, 1901.   

Tucked away from the throng of Times Square on 37 W 44th St, the six-story Beaux-Arts clubhouse was purpose built by yachtsman and banker John Pierpont Morgan to accommodate the organization's burgeoning fleet of members. 

Thanks to regular maintenance, the building looks shipshape, with some of the standout features - along with the 'Model Room' fireplace - being a stunning Tiffany stained-glass ceiling, a 64ft by 19-ft Oriental rug, a grill room designed to look like the hold of an old sailing ship, and a library containing more than 13,000 books and antique manuscripts.

Standing 25ft high and 15ft wide, the 25-ton stone fireplace at the super exclusive New York Yacht Club is certainly a sight to behold. Above it, there is a magnificent stained-glass Tiffany ceiling

Tucked away from the throng of Times Square on 37 W 44th St, the six-story Beaux-Arts clubhouse was purpose built by yachtsman and banker John Pierpont Morgan to accommodate the organization's fleet of members

Before the 44th St clubhouse was built, the New York Yacht Club had a number of outposts in the wider area. The first clubhouse opened one year after the club was founded on July 15, 1845

Thanks to its eye-catching and unique ship-like design, the exterior of the 44th St building was designated as a landmark by the City of New York Landmarks Preservation Commission on September 11, 1979

It was a Wednesday night and the downstairs bar area was buzzing with members - mostly men in smart suits - with an oyster shucker dishing out rounds of fresh mollusks and a suited waiter taking drink orders. 

In keeping with the maritime theme, every way I turned, I caught sight of something sailing related, with model boats lining the walls and paintings depicting wave swept scenes.

As I put my glass down on the table, I noticed that even the paper napkins featured a design with boats and an anchor on, along with the club's motto Latin motto 'nos agimur tumidis velis' - 'we go with swelling sails.'

Other sailing motifs, I noticed, are part of the building's brick and mortar design.

For example, three bulbous bay windows at the front of the building were modeled after the sterns of 16th century Dutch ships and there are various carvings on the premises running from the cornicing to the fireplace surround depicting seaweed, shells, dolphins, lightning bolts, stars and more.

The characterful property was designed Whitney Warren of Warren and Wetmore, who later masterminded Grand Central Terminal. 

In a video tour of the clubhouse uploaded to YouTube , narrator and pro sailor Gary Jobson explains that while there were several architects in the running for the project, John Pierpont Morgan preferred Warren's 'much more whimsical design.'

To help finance the construction of the city clubhouse, members dues were raised from $25 per year to $50. 

Today, according to  ncesc.com , regular membership is a little pricier, with an initiation fee of $150,000 and annual dues of $12,000.

Along with having a buoyant bank balance, perspective members must be nominated by an existing member, with this nomination supported by at least four other members.

The membership committee will then invite the nominee to submit an application along with letters of recommendation outlining their qualifications. 

In terms of the benefits of becoming a member, ncesc.com explains that the perks include 'access to the club's facilities, which include dining rooms, bars, meeting rooms, and sailing centers.'

'Members also have access to the club's extensive library, archives, and art collection. In addition, the club organizes numerous social events throughout the year, including regattas, dinners, and receptions.'

In Jobson's video tour, he also reveals that there are 19 'comfortable bedrooms for members and their guests,' which can be booked out at a discounted rate. 

Before visiting the club, we were warned that business attire must be worn, with a tie, jacket and collared shirt for men, and a suit or a smart dress for women. 

The paper napkins in the dining room feature a design with boats and an anchor on, along with the club's motto Latin motto 'nos agimur tumidis velis' - 'we go with swelling sails'

An exterior shot of the characterful clubhouse taken in 1934. It looks much the same today

The library within the Manhattan clubhouse contains more than 13,000 books and antique manuscripts

One of the club's unique features is a grill room, designed to look like the hold of an old sailing ship

Certainly one of the club's standout spaces is the cavernous Model Room, which can comfortably accommodate more than 300 people with 3,800 square feet to play with

The space is home to 1,340 scaled replicas of sail boats, with the earliest model dating to 1819

If you can't stretch to club membership or don't have the right qualifications to join, the New York Yacht Club runs public tours on the last Tuesday of each month

Certainly one of the club's standout spaces is the cavernous Model Room, which can comfortably accommodate more than 300 people with 3,800 square feet to play with. 

Along with the fireplace, the space is home to 1,340 scaled replicas of sail boats displayed in large glass cases, with the earliest model dating to 1819.

One of the star vessels is a mini version of the 'America,' which was responsible for the start of the America's Cup. 

On August 22, 1851, the full-size 101-foot schooner, built by New York Yacht Club commodore and founder John Cox Stevens, raced against 15 English yachts from the UK's Royal Yacht Squadron in an annual race known as the '100 Guinea Cup,' which involved a lap of the Isle of Wight. 

The visiting America won, finishing eight minutes ahead of its closest rival, and the trophy was renamed in its honor and donated to the New York Yacht Club.

An accompanying 'Deed of Gift' stipulated that the cup should be held in trust as a perpetual challenge trophy and so the America's Cup race was born. 

Today it takes place every four years as a two-yacht race, fought between the previous year's winner - known as the 'defender' - and a challenger, which is usually the best boat from a series of run-off rounds. 

Before the 44th St clubhouse was built, the New York Yacht Club had a number of outposts in the wider area.

The first clubhouse opened one year after the club was founded on July 15, 1845.

The club's website notes that this location was was a one-room Gothic Revival building designed by 'noted' architect A. J. Davis, on land owned by Commodore John Cox Stevens in Hoboken, New Jersey.

Over the next half century, the club went on to occupy four additional clubhouses: two in Manhattan and two on Staten Island and it also maintained 11 'stations' at one point.

These 'stations' came in the form of smaller buildings and landings where 'members and friends could rendezvous, send a letter or make a telephone call.'

Now, along with the 44 St property, the club only has one other outpost, with this located next the water in Newport, Rhode Island. 

Thanks to its eye-catching and unique ship-like design, the exterior of the 44th St building was designated as a landmark by the City of New York Landmarks Preservation Commission on September 11, 1979.

If you can't stretch to club membership or don't have the right qualifications to join, the New York Yacht Club runs public tours on the last Tuesday of each month. And after paying a visit myself, it's a voyage well worth making. 

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If you would like additional information about the club, its programs and its admission process, or if you would like to schedule a tour of the club, contact the Admissions Committee at  [email protected] .

You may submit an online application for membership with Nyack Boat Club.  We accept applications and admit members throughout the year.  

Before starting your application, please review the dues and fees below and the instructions in Preparing to Submit an Online Application .   Then, you're Ready to Submit .  Applicants will be contacted to schedule an interview at the Club.

2024 General Membership Fees

All fees subject to 8.375% NYS sales tax.

• Initiation fee... $980
• Junior Member Initiation Fee (per year for five years)...$196
• Annual membership dues... $1,030; half price after August 1st.
• Ideal Program Fee (limited spaces, request pre-approval)...$1,085
• Dry-sail space large... $440
• Dry-sail space medium... $365
• Dry-sail space small... $260
• Mooring (includes launch service)... $730
• Sunfish rack space... $155
• Pram/Dinghy rack... $155
• Locker... $85
• Winter storage (max 30', 9,500 lbs)... $31/ft
• Winter Rack Storage for dingy, Sunfish, Laser, Kayaks, and other small boats $70

8.375% sales tax will be added to the above fees.

Last updated 10:02am on 11 September 2024

Narrasketuck Yacht Club

Sailing on the great south bay, long island, new york, since 1933., to join narrasketuck or to get more information, contact marie . click here for the 2024 new member application,  benefits of membership.

Sailor-friendly environment for new or experienced sailors Year-round social events 12-month regatta schedule Easy access to the Great South Bay Summer wet slips and dry storage for trailerable boats On-the-water junior sailing program Hands-on adult sailing lessons

How to Join

1. Attend an event of sign up for lessons. 2. Get to know the members of our club. 3. Ask two members to sponsor you. 4. Your petition will be considered for approval after two monthly club meetings. 5. Pay your dues and an initiation fee. 6. SAIL!

Newport Yacht Club Fee Schedule * 

Sales tax of 8.00% is applied to all items

Initiation Fee :  $600   Payable in full at the time of membership application or  by the following schedule –  1st year/no fee ; 2nd, 3rd and 4th year/$200 each year. 

The Newport Yacht Club is a Sailboat Only Club

If a boat is sailed at the club anytime on two weekends or holidays per year, boat fees are required to be paid. 

Please send your completed application , 

Along with a check made payable to newport yacht club , for membership dues & applicable boat fee to:, nyc treasurer, po box 17193, rochester, ny  14617 .