the grosse pointe yacht club

Grosse Pointe Yacht Club

Play in the heart of downtown baltimore, marina info.

Grosse Pointe Yacht Club is than a facility or affiliation.We are a unique community. A community of common interests and shared values. A family of good people being served by other good people. In an atmosphere of friendship and mutual respect.As we have for generations, we stand proud and tall along the water, and welcome all who join us in the pursuit of enjoyment.

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Historical Architecture of Grosse Pointe – the Grosse Pointe Yacht Club.

Those of us who drive Lake Shore on a regular basis always enjoy the sight of the GPYC . Even from Lake Shore Road, one can’t help marveling at the clubhouse with its imposing Venetian architecture and soaring187-foot bell tower — especially on a foggy day when the tip of the steeple pokes above the mist like a metallic Matterhorn.

The yacht club was founded in 1914 by two dozen sailing and iceboating enthusiasts. In those days, the club was as much focused on competitive iceboating as it was on warm weather sailing. But for more than a decade after its founding, the club was an organization without a home. Club meetings were held at members’ residences or at the Grosse Pointe Shores municipal building.

The club’s existence was timely nevertheless. During the 1920’s the Grosse Pointes were rapidly changing from a summer retreat for wealthy Detroiters to a community of year-round homes. With the growth came the desire for a yacht club with a harbor in the community. By 1926, a building committee was formed, and a piece of land was purchased from member Clarence Ayres for $28,000, to be paid as the club was able. At the same time, the club leased an adjoining 90- by 520-foot plot from the Shores, thus creating the land needed to build on.

By 1927, under Commodore John H. French, the club was planning the construction of a clubhouse and harbor with an estimated budget of $200,000. Club leaders wanted a  facility that would be grander than anything along Lake St Clair and one that would compare with the two older yacht clubs on Belle Isle (the Detroit Boat Club and the Detroit Yacht Club).

The board hired Boston architect and Harvard graduate Guy Lowell to design the clubhouse and grounds. Lowell was a renowned East Coast architect whose commissions included a number of acclaimed buildings, e.g., the Boston Museum of Fine Art and the New York Supreme Court building, along with many distinctive residences.

Aside from his architectural skills, Lowell was also an accomplished saltwater sailor, the winner of an international regatta in Germany and a member of the U.S sailing team in Barcelona.

After submitting initial sketches and being awarded the job on January 17, 1927, Guy Lowell died at sea in the Spanish Madeira Islands just three weeks later. Since his plans were not fully developed, they were completed by two associates, Ralph Henry and Henry Richmond, who formed their own architectural firm to oversee completion of the task.

But even before construction began, cost estimates began to skyrocket, soon reaching $500,000. The new architects were given urgent orders to scale back the design, to get costs down to $350,000. In 1928, plans were finalized and construction of the clubhouse, grounds and harbor got underway at an estimated $380,000. The new harbor was opened for use that same year.

On July 4,1929, the GPYC’s elegant 18 th century Italian Renaissance -style clubhouse, clad in rough-finished stucco , was officially opened amid great fanfare. Atop the building was a reddish-brown tile roof, punctuated by a towering steeple that was meant to contrast with the flatness of the surrounding terrain and lake. The finished work was unsurpassed by anything on the lake and was acclaimed as one of the finest yacht clubs in the country.

The gated entrance to the club sets the stage for what visitors can expect to find inside. The Main Dining Room is octagon-shaped and is positioned so that five sides have a panoramic view of the harbor and lake. The room has been described as “one of the most cheerful large rooms ever designed.” Large round windows in the vaulted clerestory overhead allow light to flood into the room, which is surrounded by marble columns. The second-story ballroom, with its massive stone walls and 29-foot-high ceiling, is graced by three ornate bay windows overlooking a garden courtyard.

When the clubhouse was completed in 1929, it was unquestionably luxurious. But its luxury came with a price. When the doors opened, the club was nearly a million dollars in debt. Three months later, the stock market crashed, setting off the Great Depression which devastated the nation for an entire decade.

The board tried valiantly to keep the club afloat during the Great Depression. But by 1935 the mortgages proved to be too much, and the clubhouse went into receivership.

In 1938, as the economy recovered, the clubhouse was reclaimed from creditors by a group of former and soon-to-be members for approximately $100,000. Commodore George Slocum, who had directed the club’s closing, now had the pleasure of guiding its reformation. The doors reopened and members began to rejoin. The club was just achieving stability when World War Two intervened. The war sent GPYC members off to serve their country, while rationing of critical materials such as gasoline and food severely restricted boating and social activities. Even so, the club went on.

When the war ended in 1945, the GPYC began a steady climb to reclaim its status as one of the premiere yacht clubs in the country. Post-war America was soon booming and so was the club.

The economic growth of the late twentieth century brought sustained prosperity to the club, Membership numbers grew steadily in the 1950’s and 1960’s, and by the 1990’s the roster had topped one thousand. Upgrades to the clubhouse, grounds and harbor occurred regularly during the period to meet the growing needs of a recreation-minded culture. What had begun as an enclave for the well-to-do was now a family-friendly club. In 1986, a new North Wing was added to the clubhouse, doubling the size of the kitchen. The club bowling alleys were completely revamped in 1990 and, in 2003, a new eight-lane Olympic-size swimming pool was constructed. Throughout recent decades, special emphasis has been given to tennis, swimming and sailing programs for the children of members. Significant upgrades were done to the southeast portion of the harbor in 2012, providing new dockage for 100-plus-foot yachts.

In 1997, the Grosse Pointe Yacht Club was named the number-one yacht club in America by a nationwide survey of club professionals. It was a distinction the club would hold for the next 15 years.

Through World War and Depression, thick and thin, good times and bad, the GPYC has managed to stay the course, ever true to its mission statement of being “a premiere private yacht club, among the finest in North America, also providing high-quality family and social programs to its members.”

Indeed, the more some things change, the more they stay the same. And that, for sure, is true of the Grosse Pointe Yacht Club .

Written by Katie Doelle Copyright © 2015 Katie Doelle

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Grosse Pointe Yacht Club

Select services venue.

The venue will provide the space, plus a few extras.

Full wedding (ceremony and reception) pricing

Starting at $15,000

Guest capacity

Up to 250 seated guests

About this venue

A ship is only as good as its crew and a crew is only a good as its captain. The GPYC has been in existence for over 100 years, and we continuously strive for perfect harmony amongst our facilities and our staff. Our award-winning formula of expert leadership, committed staff, and state-of-the-art amenities has been instrumental in ensuring that our Club becomes so much more. Think of Grosse Pointe Yacht Club as an escape from the typical week or weekend. Between boating, networking, events, activities, and our family atmosphere, we’ve crafted the perfect haven from the hustle and bustle of life.

Seated guest capacity

• Ballrooms, Banquet Halls
• Beaches, Waterfront Settings

Venue setting

Our event spaces

Weddings at grosse pointe yacht club.

Choose from our exquisite dining halls and regal ballrooms to set the mood perfectly, every time.

Planning a wedding should be more than a checklist of tasks. It should be a stress-free and exciting time for all involved. Let the Grosse Pointe Yacht Club’s professional event team assist you in ensuring that everything is handled smoothly and competently. Make your nuptials unforgettable at GPYC. Gaze upon our East Lawn that looks over our Harbor and Lake St. Clair. A scene most fitting for eternal union. Finally, punctuate the big day at your reception in our exquisite ballroom, perfect for a gathering of family and friends.

Guests often feel this space is

“ Magical ”

Included in this room:

We go above and beyond to ensure that your event remains memorable for years to come.Our culinary team has crafted exotic, local and specialty dishes to accommodate the needs and palates of every guest.

Available services that can be provided by Grosse Pointe Yacht Club

Services & amenities.

• Bar services
• Catering services
• Dance floor
• Dressing room / Bridal Suite
• Event coordinator
• Event rentals
• Event staff
• Liability insurance
• Wedding cake services

Frequently asked questions

What is your peak season, what is your off-peak season, can we bring our own alcohol, do you have on-site parking.

19 Zola couples have booked

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Grosse Pointe Yacht Club Classics and Coffee

Hey Automotive Aficionado

Get ready to fuel your passion with the roar of engines and the gleam of chrome!  Genesis Automotive Group  invites you to an exclusive season of  Cars & Coffee  at the iconic  Grosse Pointe Yacht Club .

Mark your calendars for:

• Dates: Saturday, June 8th, July 13th, August 10th, and September 14th, 2024 
• Time: 9 a.m. – 11 a.m.
• Location: Grosse Pointe Yacht Club

Here’s why you can’t miss it:

• Showcase your pride and joy: Mingle with fellow car enthusiasts and flaunt your automotive masterpiece in the most exquisite setting Detroit has to offer.
• Unleash your inner foodie: Indulge in delicious bites from a food truck, sweeten your day with pastries, and fuel your coffee cravings. (Over 21? Treat yourself to a cash mimosa bar!)
• Immerse yourself in the ambiance: Live entertainment sets the mood, while learning about other exclusive events at the GPYC membership tent.

Limited Spots, Exclusive Access:

• Entry is free, but registration is mandatory and vehicle entry is reserved for   GPYC members and pre-registered invited guests.  Secure your spot by registering your vehicle (not occupants) in advance.
• Pre-registration is key! As a guest, you can reserve your spot before anyone else.
• Don’t miss out! Tickets are limited to 100 vehicles per event.

Ready to join the ultimate automotive gathering?  Click the Eventbrite links below and secure your spot before they’re gone!

Saturday, September 14th  – All Genesis Automotive Group Brands Featured

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/gpyc-cars-coffee-sponsored-by-genesis-automotive-group-tickets-837546252387?aff=oddtdtcreator

Saturday, June 8 th  – Genesis Alfa Romeo Featured Brand

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/gpyc-cars-coffee-sponsored-by-genesis-alfa-romeo-tickets-837431428947?aff=oddtdtcreator

Saturday, July 13th  – Genesis Cadillac Featured Brand

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/gpyc-cars-coffee-sponsored-by-genesis-cadillac-tickets-837495761367?aff=oddtdtcreator

Saturday, August 10th  – Genesis Chevrolet Featured Brand  

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/gpyc-cars-coffee-sponsored-by-genesis-chevrolet-tickets-837527566497?aff=oddtdtcreator

Chris Pokorski

Marketing Director

Genesis Automotive Group

Office – 586.541-1537

www.GenesisAutomotiveGroup.com

Grosse Pointe Yacht Club

788 Lake Shore Road, Grosse Pointe Shores, MI

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Harbor Details

Located in a prime spot on Lake St. Clair, the GPYC Harbor offers 261 boat slips in a certified Clean Marina. Our full-service facility serves as your home away from home, whether you are cruising the Great Lakes or seeking a permanent berth for your vessel. Our professional Harbor staff is always ready to assist with everything from docking to providing our elite concierge service.

During the summer months, our Harbor is staffed 24/7. Our comprehensive Harbor Concierge Service allows members to schedule services online for quick and efficient assistance. We also offer guest docking services for members expecting visitors arriving by water.

In the southeast corner of our Harbor, you'll find the Marine Activity Center (MAC), the hub of our sailing program. The MAC is versatile, hosting trap shooting in the winter and available for event bookings. Additionally, our Grog Shop, located at the front of the Harbor, is stocked with grab-and-go food items, beer, seltzers, apparel, and marine supplies.

Harbor Coordinates

Communication.

Harbor Communications: GPYC - Channel 9 Marine VHF standby and hailing - Channel 16 Weather information for the immediate area - WXI  

Office Hours

The Harbor Office is open Sunday - Saturday from 8:00 a.m. - 9:00 p.m.

Open everyday from 8:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m.

Emergency Security Services

For emergency from a Club telephone: Dial 9* wait for dial tone then dial 911.   Grosse Pointe Shores Public Safety Police and Fire is located across from the GPYC at Vernier and Lake Shore Road.   For Police and Fire non-emergencies from a club telephone: Dial 9* wait for dial tone then dial (313) 881-5500.   Portable Defibrillator (Heart 1000) is located in the Harbor Office for use in the event of a heart attack. First Aid Station: Located on pool deck and in the Harbor Office.

GPYC Harbor Map

View the new map of the Harbor

Fleet Registration

Please fill out and return to the Harbor Office

Alex Turner, CMM

Harbor master.

Grosse Pointe Yacht Club

Review Highlights

“ Dress codes are strictly enforced (no jeans, jackets required in the main ballroom ). ” in 2 reviews

“ The marina and boats really have no significance to a bride & groom unless they are boaters, and half the time the water stinks. ” in 3 reviews

“ you must be a member to get in. ” in 3 reviews

Location & Hours

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788 Lake Shore Rd

Grosse Pointe Shores, MI 48236

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Overall rating

The staff is very personable and they give you an experience like no other. They host some amazing events and Mothers day brunch. They offer a amazing Adult learn to sail program that gives you some great tips to use. This place is always decorated so beautifully. Make sure you visit the Marine activity center. This is a wonderful club and very welcoming. You can always know your getting the full Grosse Pointe experience here. Please note... you must be a member to get in. But if you already are you know exactly what I am talking about. From the service to the staff giving you a experience. It has earned a solid place in my book.

View from lakeshore

Went here for a wedding - food great service great, band great staff great- the only thing is the room noise - some sound proofing would help- couldn't talk to the person across the table without yelling - other than that minor complaint it was a wonderful time !

Attended a seminar here, partial dinner included.very good waitress service. Huge chicken breast- juicy, served with steamed vegetables and potatoes. Water only, as even to purchase no other beverages were offered. Very good looking building- kept up quite well.

Always a special time at this picturesque venue. Food is excellent, service is top notch. I could come here everyday.

Came with friends from another club, we were greeted graciously. Went to dining area to sit and as I walked in a nurf ball came falling/sailing over the top of my head. Scared me a bit and threw me off a bit. Seriously? Kids playing in the bar area restaurant with absolutely no control over these "Free range"kids, from their lazy parents. (Kid we threw the nurf ball came to apologize for scaring me, which was nice and appreciated. Unfortunately, at a club like this, the kids are used to being out of control, since they know that no one dares to reprimand them. The whole evening dinner was spent watching this circus play out. Parents, have some guts, put down your drink and be conscious of others who are attempting to enjoy their food also. Or better yet take you and your kids to McDonalds!!!! We could tell the wait staff was at their wits end, everyone trying to carry their trays without tripping over one of the kids! I hope the pay and tips are worth the aggravation. There have got to be better venues to work!!!!

Best members EVER!!! As someone that has worked there for 23 years. The members treat the staff like family!!! The best!!!

We have been boating for many years, traveling to many yacht clubs around the Great Lakes. This gives me a bit of a different perspective of the facility. The docks are difficult to access with a lot of current, only one staff member to assist us. After a long day of sailing we went to take our showers. My husband had no issue, the men's locker room had four nice showers. The women's only two, one with a torn plastic curtain. I never did get to use the shower as it was filled with tweens washing each other's hair. I asked if there were other facilities for dockers and was told no. As I stood in the hall waiting, one man made a snide remark about "always waiting for women". I suggested it was probably because there were only two women's showers compared to the four for men. He just laughed and said "we're an old club". An old boy's club would have been more accurate. The boat which is named "Old Money" was an accurate welcome to the club. They have old money because they don't believe in spending it equitably on the women's facilities. The food was at least editable.

Gorgeous place. You have to be a member or be able to sneak in on a family member's name (as we do). Weddings and special events here are beautiful. The Sunday brunch is a smorgasboard of deliciousness ranging from eggs to salmon to waffles to shrimp and crab to a whole room devoted to desserts. Dress codes are strictly enforced (no jeans, jackets required in the main ballroom). Prices are steep and all charges are added to the member's monthly bill. In the summer the pool is an oasis, though a crowded one. The dress code for the outside bar and grill is obviously much more relaxed, and they serve killer hummers.

One of my best friends was married at the GPYC, and there's a few things I thought about it. First, yes, you really couldn't ask for a more elegant setting for a wedding... except for the surrounding dock. Of course this would seem obvious (since it is a Yacht Club... right?), but not until we were behind the building was it visually apparent that this gem was multi-tasking as both a marina AND a catering facility! But still, there's a great arch on the dock where my friend and his wife had pictures taken; in the photos, it looked like they were out at sea, a really beautiful backdrop if you can get a skilled photographer who can work around the yachts. I can't say much about the food, because the bride and groom opted to have Andiamo come in instead of using GPYC facilities, so anything I'd have to say should be directed elsewhere. But the bartenders were staffed by GPYC. I can say they made the tastiest martini I've ever had at a wedding (and in the Pointes that's no surprise), and were more friendly (albeit, professional) than I expected them to be. The room we were in was absolutely gorgeous. The tables were set elegantly, the cloth chair covers matched the table coverings... I really can't describe it. You know what silverware and plates look like when you go into a diner? Think of the exact opposite of that... and that's GPYC.

Luxurious dining, excellent staff, the most beautiful and well-kept and maintained harbor on the lake.

1 other review that is not currently recommended

Collections Including Grosse Pointe Yacht Club

Memmmmmories. . . light the corners of my mind....

By Katie H.

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Grosse Pointe Yacht Club | Private Yacht Club in Grosse Pointe Shores,...

Grosse Pointe Yacht ClubThe Grosse Pointe Yacht Club is a private club in Michigan, established in 1914.

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