new york yacht club dues

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 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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How Much Does a New York Yacht Club Membership Cost?

Frequently asked questions, what are the benefits of becoming a member of the new york yacht club, what is the process for becoming a member of the new york yacht club, what is the dress code at the new york yacht club, what is the minimum age for membership in the new york yacht club, what is the expected time commitment for membership in the new york yacht club, is there a waiting list for membership in the new york yacht club, what are the requirements for intermediate membership in the new york yacht club, what is the process for transferring a membership in the new york yacht club, what is the policy on cancellations and refunds for memberships in the new york yacht club, is there a discount for military veterans in the new york yacht club, what is the role of the new york yacht club in the sailing community, what is the new york yacht club foundation, what is the history of the new york yacht club.

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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More From Forbes

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

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Royal Yacht Squadron in England

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

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

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

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

Annapolis Yacht Club

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

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Aerial view of Beach Point Club

Beach Point Club

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

Chicago Yacht Club

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

The stunning Grosse Pointe Yacht Club

Grosse Pointe Yacht Club

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

Larchmont Yacht Club

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

Lauderdale Yacht Club

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

Naples Yacht Club

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

Newport Harbor Yacht Club

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

Palm Beach Yacht Club

Palm Bea ch Yacht Club

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

Pelican Isle Y acht Club

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

Royal Palm Yacht & Country Club

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

Sailfish Club of Florida

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

San Diego Yacht Club

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

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

Aerial view of the San Francisco Yacht Club

San Francisco Yacht Club

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

Sarasota Yacht Club

Saraso ta Yacht Club

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

Savannah Yacht Club

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

St. Francis Yacht Club

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

Tampa Yacht & Country Club

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

Yacht Club Costa Smeralda

Circolo Canottieri Aniene

Circolo degli Esteri

Compagnia della Vela

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

Yacht Club Italiano

Royal Prince Alfred Yacht Club

Cruising Yacht Club of Australia

Royal Freshwater Bay Yacht Club

Royal Melbourne Yacht Squadron

Royal Perth Yacht Club

The Royal Prince Alfred Yacht Club

Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron

Royal Sydney Yacht Squadron

Raffles Marina

Republic of Singapore Yacht Club

Real Club Nautico de Vigo

Royal Bermuda Yacht Club

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

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

Nassau Yacht Club

Royal Bombay Yacht Club

Royal Canadian Yacht Club

Royal Vancouver Yacht Club

Royal Victoria Yacht Club

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

Royal Cork Yacht Club

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

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

Royal Irish Yacht Club

NEW ZEALAND

Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron

Royal Southern Yacht Club

Royal Thames Yacht Club

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

The Royal Western Yacht Club of England

Royal Yacht Squadron

Royal Yacht Club Moscow

Société des Régates du Havre

Monaco Yacht Club

Yacht Club de Monaco

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

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

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

Yacht Club Santo Amaro

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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.

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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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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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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

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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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Roula Khalaf, Editor of the FT, selects her favourite stories in this weekly newsletter.

This article is part of FT Globetrotter’s guide to New York

It was Tuesday, nearing sunset, when our spinnaker sail gave us trouble. Our boat had been racing out of a cove north of Ellis Island towards the southern tip of Manhattan. The spinnaker — a wide, parachute-like sheet — is the crew’s most powerful racing options when running with the wind. But it is also the most cantankerous sail. To keep up with the rival sailboats, we needed to change direction and replace it with a different sail. Our crewmate in the bow grabbed as much of it as she could and hauled it down to the deck, but it caught the wind and fought back like an animal in a snare. Our skipper was shouting. We were losing speed.

Sailboat racing is a sport that, celebrating aggressive budging and quick rigging, gets as feisty as any game on land. Nose around your opponent’s bow and you are winning. It is chess on the water, pitting the crew against the wind, currents and the occasional barge heading upriver.

Many will experience sailing on the Hudson in a far more sedate capacity — as part of a company-charted luxury cruise with clients, or maybe a sunset pootle for a friend’s birthday for selfies with the Statue of Liberty up close.

But whether you are racing or cruising, New York sailing offers views of the skyline and sunsets that you can’t get on land. It also vaults you back in time — before there were bridges and tunnels, when ferrying across the harbour by boat was the only way to get around.

From beginners to skippers, New York offers a number of sailing options. But if you are on holiday in the city and hoping to rent a sailboat for a solo jaunt in the harbour, you are out of luck. There are few options unless you take a lesson or join a club. Better to find some local sailing friends who can take you out. 

New York offers three kinds of sailing experiences: lessons, club membership and, ultimately, sailing-skipper privileges for those who are trained to go out by themselves. For beginners and sailing dilettantes, lessons are the cheapest, quickest way to get your feet wet. And for intermediate sailors, a lesson is useful in learning the unique culture of the New York waterway, which includes strong currents, fast barges and too many jet skiers. You might know the right-of-way rules, but you’d better steer clear of the Circle Line cruises that circumnavigate Manhattan. They will run you over. 

For people eager to make sailing a part of their New York lives, there are two types of memberships in the places mentioned below. The introductory, general membership will give you full access to facilities, but you will need to start sailing with a skipper. Only skippers can take boats out on their own and lead a racing crew.

Still, ordinary members enjoy the thrill of racing as a crew member. When I moved to New York in 2019, I wanted to find out how to join the sailboats on the water that look so enticing to office dwellers stuck high up in towers in the financial district. For my Tuesday-evening race beset by spinnaker problems, I joined a crew of other sailors from the Manhattan Yacht Club. Established in 1987, this club is believed to be where New York’s recreational sailing was reborn. Before 1986, the city dumped raw sewage into the Hudson river. Today, the water is not perfect, but seals and whales can be spotted in the harbour. 

New York’s increasingly popular sailing options also include lessons for kids, as well as socialising for everyone on the days the wind does not puff. So leave your troubles on the dock and check out my top picks for sailing in Gotham. 

Manhattan Yacht Club

140 dudley street jersey city, nj 07302.

Good for: Excellent racing and meeting international sailors

Not so good for: The club is located on the New Jersey side of the Hudson. There are ferries from southern Manhattan to a station close to the club, but it's a trek from other parts of the city. There is parking. And on the other hand, if you do live in New Jersey, this is your best option 

FYI: The club also owns a 157-foot yacht with three masts for long-distance excursions. Members can book rooms aboard the Arabella for luxury cruises to Martha’s Vineyard this summer and to the Caribbean in the winter

Website ; Directions

For my racing excursion with the Manhattan Yacht Club, I was one of five other crew members in a J/24 pitted against about a dozen other club boats. I learnt to sail as a kid, but I’m not a racer. My primary job during the race was keeping my head down to avoid getting whacked by the boom. Though my added weight to the boat ensured we would not be winning any races that night, everyone was welcoming. They even let me sail the boat back to the docks after the race.  

With its long history near the financial district, this club probably has the most Wall Street clientele of the sailing options in New York. The history section of its website notes that its membership expands and contracts with the booms and busts on Wall Street. The club hosts corporate regattas that include Wall Street banks such as UBS and Deutsche.

The club offers year-round sailing options. Members travel to the British Virgin Islands in the winter. For those stuck in New York, there is “frostbite racing” in the colder months.

As with the other sailing clubs in New York, the experience is an investment. Regular dues at the Manhattan club are $1,700 per year plus more for skipper privileges.

Lessons are available at the Manhattan Sailing School , the club’s public teaching arm. A weekend instructional program starts at $590.

Sailing, as the saying goes, is what you do in between drinking. So importantly, the Manhattan Yacht Club has lively outdoor grilling and drinking for members after the races. There is also an indoor clubroom that was being renovated when I visited.

One°15 Brooklyn Sail Club

159 bridge park drive, brooklyn, new york 11201.

Good for: High-speed, modern boats and easy access from Brooklyn neighbourhoods

Not so good for: If you don’t live in Brooklyn, sailing here could be inconvenient

FYI: When you are tired of sailing, try the marina’s two eateries — a bakery and a restaurant

“This is Brooklyn. This is different,” said Stephen Yip, executive director of sailing at One°15 Brooklyn Marina (the global marina brand owned by the Singapore-based SUTL Group) when I visited for an afternoon of sailing. Located on the waterfront near the Brooklyn Bridge, the club is less than 10 years old.

Yip knows the Manhattan Yacht Club well, having previously been an instructor at the Manhattan Sailing School. Now, he says, One°15 sailing is eager to take the clubbiness out of sailing. For one thing, there is no club room lined with trophies.

While it might feel different from a yacht club, One°15 has a lot of fast boats to brag about. Its Melges 24s and J/80s are definitely the race cars of the harbour. For the experts, these boats do not have spinnaker poles that need to be deployed, removing the need for this rigging hassle during races. When Yip took me out for racing, the boats were flying in pretty light wind.

One°15’s races take place south of Governors Island towards the mouth of the harbour, where the wind blows unobstructed. As the sun sets after the race, the lights in the financial district’s towers light up for some amazing views. Back at the docks, crew members gather for drinks, dinner and a race debriefing at Estuary, the marina’s restaurant.

First year of membership is $1,300 for 12 months plus more to be a skipper. For those unsure if they want a commitment, the club also offers discovery and introductory membership options for $350 and $800 respectively. Teenagers can take sailing lessons for $900 if their parents are members.

Hudson River Community Sailing (HRCS)

West 26th street & 12th avenue, pier 66 boathouse, hudson river park, new york, ny 10001, and 348 dyckman street, new york, ny 10034.

Good for : Affordable entry-level sailing 

Not so good for: Extensive racing options

FYI: Book lessons (or a membership orientation) online. Lessons spots fill quickly in midsummer, but with two locations you should be able to find time on the Hudson

If you want to learn or practise sailing without committing to a club, then Hudson River Community Sailing might be a good fit.

I joined for a lesson at the HRCS’s Inwood location at the top of Manhattan. Here, you won’t have to worry about annoying jet skiers, which buzz around sailboat racers off Manhattan’s southern tip. Plus there are no tall buildings around. The notorious “wind shadow” skyscrapers in midtown and the financial district do not block the breeze up here. And the views from further up the Hudson are worth the trip. Fancy buildings give way to green cliffs that stretch up into the Hudson river valley.

If you would prefer to sail closer to midtown Manhattan, HRCS’s Chelsea location has the same boats. I went there in June to watch the annual LGBTQ+ Stonewall Sails Pride Regatta. But as soon as we got out on the river, dangerously strong winds forced our boats back to their moorings.

My sailing lesson was more placid. My instructor was a local high-school student who got into sailing thanks to HRCS’s after-school programme for New York City state-school students. There is also a summer sailing camp for kids, as well as kids-only racing. For adults, a weekend of sailing lessons costs $595. Private lessons cost $450 for two hours. The Inwood location offers some pick-up races on Sundays at no extra cost, which might be the best option in the city to develop racing skills at a good price.

Annual memberships for a crew member start at $1,550 and drop to $1,125 if you renew. New skipper rates are $1,650. Both options are well below the rates at the clubs. Excellent prices for summer sailing.

Finally, HRCS offers a special sailing programme for veterans. And in 2021, it piloted sailing education and recreation for children and adults with disabilities.

North Cove Sailing

300 vesey street, new york, ny 10282.

Good for: A kids’ sailing camp that is easily accessible in downtown Manhattan

Not so good for: A smaller number of boats go out to race

FYI: Book lessons online. The venue offers beginner’s lessons, as well as separate classes for those who have passed a basic keelboat certification course

As New York’s financial district increasingly becomes more residential, there is a growing need for kids’ stuff in this part of town. Soccer fields and tennis courts are sparse. But there is plenty of space on the river. North Cove Sailing, which is part of Brookfield Place , offers a kids’ sailing camp — no experience necessary. 

For adults, there are also lessons (including private ones), racing and convivial après-sail drinks. Sailing director Maureen “Moochie” Corrado told me that club members have anchoring privileges, meaning their boats can plop down in designated parts of the New York harbour. This is a special treat that most clubs in New York do not offer, she said. 

North Cove’s sailing prices are in line with the other options in New York. For new members it costs $1,700 and $1,500 for renewals. Skipper privileges cost $2,300 — also comparable to the other venues. While that might seem pricey to some, consider that skippers practically own a sailboat and can go out on the water whenever. You have access to a sailboat without the hassle of storing it somewhere for the winter. And don’t forget, gym memberships at Equinox or Chelsea Piers cost well over $2,000.

Tell us about your favourite New York sailing club in the comments below. And follow FT Globetrotter on Instagram at @FTGlobetrotter

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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

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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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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 .