indian harbor yacht club membership

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

Open Daily 10am - 5pm  Plan Your Visit

Yacht Clubs

Indian Harbor Yacht Club

Indian Harbor Yacht Club was founded in 1889 by dedicated sailors intent on being part of the thriving sailing community on Long Island Sound. The club’s mission was to encourage and foster the sport of yachting, the art of yacht design and construction and the science of seamanship and navigation. That mission holds true today as our members continue to excel on the racecourse, embrace the pleasures of cruising and enjoy the camaraderie of fellow members.

Stories from Indian Harbor Yacht Club

The current clubhouse was designed in 1919 by noted American architect Henry Pelton and completed by the Charles Wills Construction Company in 1920 to replace the original shingle-style building which was lost in a fire. Both men were club members and while Pelton is best known for designing the Riverside Cathedral in New York, Commodore Wills’ firm built buildings such as the University Club and the New York Stock Exchange. This same clubhouse, with sweeping views of Captain’s Harbor, is now listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Over the years, our members have contributed to the establishment of national organizations that have defined the sport. These include NAYRU, which we know today as US Sailing, the US Power Squadron, the Yacht Racing Union of Long Island Sound and The American Power Boating Association. They have also participated in America’s Cup Syndicates and have organized international regattas for one-design classes, ocean races and US Youth Championships.

For more than125 years, IHYC members have excelled in sailing at all levels, including fleet racing, one-design racing and ocean racing. IHYC members have won the Transatlantic Race, the Fastnet Race, the Southern Ocean Racing Circuit and the American Power Boat Championships. In addition, the IHYC Junior Sailing Program, founded by Commodores Robert Law and Clifford Mallory in 1924, continues to encourage young mariners to develop skills that will encourage a life-long appreciation of the water.

Susan H. Fisher

Sign up for our Newsletter

Check out our monthly newsletter that includes upcoming events, news and more.

" * " indicates required fields

The Sailing Museum & National Sailing Hall of Fame

365 Thames St. Newport RI 02840 401.324.5761

The Sailing Museum

National sailing hall of fame, get involved.

• Become a Member
• Host an Event

© 2011 – 2024 The Sailing Museum and National Sailing Hall of Fame  |  Privacy Policy   |  Site Credits

• Greenwich Library
• Hours & Locations
• Byram Shubert
• Perrot Memorial Library
• Wireless Printing
• Room Rentals
• Accessibility
• Flinn Gallery
• The Café at Greenwich Library
• Library Cards
• Staff Picks
• Personalized Recommendations
• Digital Library
• Research & Resources
• Children’s Summer Reading
• Adult Summer Reading
• Oral History Project
• Recorded Events
• AuthorsLive
• Innovation Lab
• Learning Lab
• Book Groups
• Friends Friday Films
• Greenwich Reads Together
• Friends of Greenwich Library
• ReImagine Renovation
• Press Room & Blog
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Ask A Librarian
• Librarian by Appointment

Yacht and Boat Clubs of Greenwich

By Local History Librarian March 17, 2017

Originally written by Carl White.

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

The Riverside Yacht Club

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

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

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

Indian Harbor Yacht Club

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

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

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

The Belle Haven Yacht Club

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

The Byram Shore Boat Club

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

Greenwich Boat and Yacht Club

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

Old Greenwich Yacht Club

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

Going Down To The Sea In Ships

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

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

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

Build your family tree, dive into the history of your historic home, and discover photos and articles of days gone past with the Library’s collection of 5,000 books, 800 Oral History transcripts, yearbooks, historical maps, vertical files, pamphlets, periodicals, and microfilm and microfiche. Plus, access resources like American Ancestors, AncestryLibrary, and more with a Library card. Learn more at greenwichlibrary.org/genealogy .

Get the latest about the Library’s History & Genealogy events and offerings sent to your email:  greenwichlibrary.org/enews .

Questions? Contact:

Local History Librarian

(203) 622-7948

[email protected]

Indian Harbor Yacht Club

Location & Hours

Suggest an edit

710 Steamboat Rd

Greenwich, CT 06830

You Might Also Consider

24.2 miles away from Indian Harbor Yacht Club

Michelle S. said "This is a very fancy upscale art gallery with big space with big artworks. From the giant black and white photographs to the giant crazy vivid abstract wall hanging sculptures. You can see all kinds of so-called trend makers of the…" read more

in Art Galleries

Alamo Drafthouse Cinema Yonkers

Lou R. said "I'm giving it a "4" out of "5" stars. The reason being is that we ordered 2 margaritas while we waited for them to allow us to be seated and the drinks were not made well. I discretely went back to the bar and asked for a new drink.…" read more

in Bars, Dinner Theater, Cinema

Women of Culture

Brittney J. said "Loved discussing art & culture with a warm, thoughtful, welcoming group. No pretension, just curiosity and enthusiasm at this well-planned, inspiring event. Looking forward to joining more!" read more

in Social Clubs, Art Galleries, Art Tours

Amenities and More

About the business.

Since 1889, The Indian Harbor Yacht Club has served as a unique space for members and guests alike. Our gorgeous clubhouse is the only club in Greenwich listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The club enjoys a wonderful reputation for hosting amazing and memorable weddings, anniversaries, birthdays and other social events. Our historic clubhouse, fantastic water views, delicious food, and caring and attentive staff contribute to make your event everything you want it to be. Plus, the club regularly hosts meetings, lunches, dinners and cocktail parties for companies, charities, alumni associations and others looking for the perfect venue for their event. Work with our experienced culinary team to create a unique menu and bring your vision to life. Your next event is sure to be a success! …

Ask the Community

Ask a question

Yelp users haven’t asked any questions yet about Indian Harbor Yacht Club .

People also searched for

Unique Wedding Venues

Birthday Party Venues

Restaurants With View

Arts & Entertainment

Things To Do On A Rainy Day

Recommended Reviews

• 1 star rating Not good
• 2 star rating Could’ve been better
• 3 star rating OK
• 4 star rating Good
• 5 star rating Great

Select your rating

Overall rating

Gorgeous venue and location by the water, exquisite service, lovely views of the water outside, food that is a true work of art, and best of all, divine taste in every ingredient!! Fantastic diverse menu that is often changed for variety - with many sorts of seafood and different types of meats. The dessert is astounding. I love coming and tasting different dishes from the menu, as well as desserts. Everything is cooked to perfection, not a minute longer or shorter. It is the fine attention to detail, and the submergence in flavor of every single fresh item and ingredient that makes this place stand out like no other. The staff is so kind and courteous, and the place is decorated beautifully with its iconic maritime theme. In CT, this is my absolute FAVORITE place to dine in, and it has the best food in CT that I have tasted. Simple perfection. I am a top fan here, I hope life will bless me by continuing to bring me here.

See all photos from Kelly S. for Indian Harbor Yacht Club

This place feels like it could be a set for Succession. We had almost every appetizer- crab cakes, coconut shrimp, shrimp cocktail, and escargot. Everything was amazing. For my entre I had the market fish, which was a mahi mahi which was delicious. I had a number of hazy ipas, each one was delicious and I left the restaurant drunk.

Had our wedding here many years ago. Beautiful spot. Everything was perfect! Wonderful memories. Also held my father's memorial here. Always gracious and helpful for both events. A very special place for our family.

Great place -- beautiful spot and beautiful club

This review is for the Jr. Sailing school. The instructors are great and really knows how to engage the students. My son is really energetic and can be a handful but the staff here were able to work with him and he learned a lot throughout the summer. This was my son's first time in sailing school and I really appreciate that they start as young as 4. They really encourage the sailors to participate in as many regattas as possible to improve their sailing skills. My son was too young to participate within the Opti level but we look forward to participating next year.

My only regret is that I was taken to lunch here too early in the yachting season to see any of the boats, but it was spectacular nonetheless. Attentive but not overbearing staff, fantastic views of the water, and very fresh seafood. Brownie points for the super-chic bathrooms. It's just so classy. The whole place just screams traditional New England.

I was underwhelmed. After booking this place for a company event, we ended up having our holiday party here. The outside was beautifully lit and it is right on the water. We had access to large room you see as you walk in. The lighting was a bit too dim for me and the decor was drab at best. I had high expectations for this club especially because it was in Greenwich, it just felt like an update was way overdue. The food was just OK, not much variety and very basic. The dining seating set up was pretty tight so it was hard to get to the buffet or over to another colleague to chat. I am sure I will use this place in the future, I just think I was expecting it to be more grand.

Chef Todd is One of the best in the State, Indian harbor is lucky to have talent like this in house.

3 other reviews that are not currently recommended

Connecticut Dance Conservatory

Priscilla P. said "I absolutely LOVE CT Dance Conservatory. This is the third dance school my daughter has tried and we felt a little like Goldilocks (one's technique wasn't strong, one really only focused on the competition team, etc) it was a…" read more

in Dance Studios, Performing Arts, Dance Schools

Jazz On Main

Ellie H. said "Wow! Looking for a unique place to grab a drink and a bite on a Friday night and stumbled onto this gem. Live Jazz?! Incredibly rare and what a treat. Can't wait to make this place one of my regular haunts whenever I'm in the area." read more

in Bars, Jazz & Blues, Music Venues

People Also Viewed

Orienta Beach Club

Greenwich Water Club

Pastime Athletic & Social Club

Stamford Yacht Club

Greenwich Country Club

Bronxville Field Club

Bowlero Norwalk

Westchester Country Club

Grace Farms

Fayerweather Yacht Club

Browse Nearby

Restaurants

Things to Do

Restaurants With Private Rooms

Limo Service

Transportation

Other Social Clubs Nearby

Find more Social Clubs near Indian Harbor Yacht Club

People found Indian Harbor Yacht Club by searching for…

Top 10 Party Venues in Greenwich

Welcome to Eau Gallie Yacht Club

The Eau Gallie Yacht Club is a private Club located at the mouth of the Banana River adjacent to the Intra-Coastal Waterway in Indian Harbour Beach on the east coast of Florida near Melbourne. Launched in 1907, the Club has grown over the past one hundred-plus years to include members from all walks of life and business – from area founders, astronauts, and government officials to titans of industry and community leaders. Club Members enjoy our unique amenities, World Class Clay Tennis Courts, Elegant Waterfront Dining, Riverfront Dining and occasional Brunch, Themed Parties, and Club Functions, The Club includes an RV Club, Book Club, Kids Night, Women’s Council, Captains Table, Bridge, Mahjong and more. Large Fully Renovated and Heated Pool with Seasonal Lifeguard, and Kids Splash Pat. Boat Slip Availability at reasonable pricing. Use of Sailboats, Kayaks, and paddleboards.

From the moment you step onto the property, you are welcomed into a community that values shared experiences. The club offers a variety of amenities and activities that cater to all interests and ages. Whether you’re a sailing enthusiast, a tennis player, or someone who simply enjoys a relaxing day by the pool, there’s something for everyone at the Eau Gallie Yacht Club. The club’s location on the beautiful Indian River Lagoon provides stunning views and opportunities for water sports and boating. The marina is top-notch, with state-of-the-art facilities to ensure your boating experience is always enjoyable and safe. What truly sets the Club apart is its sense of community. In addition, the Club hosts a variety of social events throughout the year, providing members with opportunities to connect and create lasting memories. It’s about making memories that will last a lifetime. And that’s what makes it truly amazing.

The Eau Gallie Yacht Club offers a wide range of amenities designed to provide a comprehensive and enjoyable experience for all members. Here are some of the key amenities you can expect: Marina: The club boasts a full-service marina with state-of-the-art facilities. Whether you’re a seasoned sailor or a boating enthusiast, the marina provides everything you need for a great day on the water. Dining: With a variety of dining options, from casual to formal, the club offers culinary experiences to suit every palate. Enjoy a meal while taking in the stunning views of the Indian River Lagoon. Sports Facilities: The club offers a range of sports facilities including 6 Clay tennis courts, a fully renovated and heated pool, a fitness center and much more. Whether you’re looking to stay active or simply relax, there’s something for everyone. Social Events: The club hosts a variety of social events throughout the year, providing opportunities for members to connect and create lasting memories. Children’s Programs: The club offers a range of programs and activities for children, making it a great place for families.

Camaraderie: The club fosters a strong sense of community among its members. Regular social events provide opportunities for members to connect, share experiences, and create lasting memories. It’s not just about the facilities, but the people you meet and the friendships you form. Love for the Water: At its core, the Eau Gallie Yacht Club is a haven for those who love the water. With a full-service marina and a variety of water-based activities, it’s the perfect place for those who feel at home on the waves. In essence, the lifestyle at the Eau Gallie Yacht Club is about more than just the amenities it offers. It’s about the experiences you have, the people you meet, and the memories you create. It’s about feeling at home, whether you’re out on the water or relaxing on the shore. It’s a lifestyle that’s hard to beat.

Eau Gallie Yacht Club

Phone: 321-773-2600

Email: [email protected]

Address: 100 Datura Drive Indian Harbor Beach, Florida 32937

Website: https://www.egyachtclub.com

The Eau Gallie Yacht Club is a private Club located at the mouth of the Banana River adjacent to the Intra-coastal Waterway in Indian Harbour Beach on the east coast of Florida near Melbourne. Launched in 1907, the Club has grown over the past one hundred plus years to include members from all walks of life and business – from area founders, astronauts and government officials to titans of industry and community leaders.

The Club’s lounge, dining and banquet room, and Harbor Grill overlook the Club’s marina, the beautiful Banana River and its confluence with the Indian River. The ambiance of the Club is the perfect setting for these special occasions including weddings, socials, card parties and business gatherings. Members and their guests enjoy a variety of dining ex

Our Club Members

Bird Key Yacht Club

Bradenton Yacht Club

Captiva Island Yacht Club

Carlouel Beach & Yacht Club

Charlotte Harbor Yacht Club

Clearwater Yacht Club

Coral Reef Yacht Club

Coral Ridge Yacht Club

Davis Island Yacht Club

Florida Yacht Club

Fort Walton Yacht Club

Halifax River Yacht Club

Harbour Ridge Yacht & Country Club

Isles Yacht Club

Key Biscayne Yacht Club

Lake Beresford

Lauderdale Yacht Club

Marathon Yacht Club

Marco Island Yacht Club

Naples Sailing & Yacht Club

Naples Yacht Club

Oyster Bay Yacht Club

Pelican Isle Yacht Club

Pensacola Yacht Club

Sarasota Yacht Club

Smyrna Yacht Club

St. Andrews Bay Yacht Club

St. Charles Yacht Club

St. Petersburg Yacht Club

Tampa Yacht & Country Club

Tarpon Springs Yacht Club

The Field Club

The Moorings Yacht & Country Club

Venice Yacht Club

Vero Beach Yacht Club

Indian Harbor Yacht Club Law Trophy Regatta 2024

The Commodore Law Trophy Regatta, hosted by Indian Harbor Yacht Club, Greenwich CT, is one of the oldest junior regattas in the United States, first sailed 95 years ago in 1929.

The 2024 regatta will be held on Monday and Tuesday, July 1 and 2, in these boat classes: Club 420 and ILCA Dinghies (all rigs: 4 and 6 and 7). Registration may be made through Clubspot .

As one of the earliest regattas on the JSA of LIS summer calendar, the Commodore Law Trophy Regatta attracts participation from racers who want to challenge themselves and enhance their skills for another season of racing.

The regatta is open to any JSA sailor member or private race team member who meets at least one of the following criteria: -Qualified for any previous JSA Championship -If not previously JSA champs qualified, is certified by their respective program’s and/or team’s coaching staff or sailing director to be competent racing sailors. The event is not for beginner-level racers, so up to three boats in this category from each participating class may be designated by each JSA member program. -Invited to participate by the host club -Has reached their 13th but not their 19th birthday in the current calendar year.

An example of the excitement at this regatta may be seen in the below reprint of the report from the 2019 edition.

<<< 2019 Commodore Law Trophy Regatta News>>>

On day one, the boat park was filled with junior sailors from a variety of clubs and sailing organizations within in JSA of LIS. They were all milling around, rigging their boats, and getting a feel for sailing again, considering most of these young participants haven’t sailed since the previous summer. The mood of the boat park was excited! Most of the participants ,when asked about their goals for the two-day event, were there to have fun and get back into the swing of things. Of the clubs present, sailors from American Yacht Club, Riverside Yacht Club, Cedar Point Yacht Club, and Pequot Yacht Club spoke to us about their excitement for the day and what they hoped to achieve when racing in this regatta.

The sailors from Riverside Yacht Club collectively agreed on their goals for the Law Trophy, “We’re looking to have a good day and get back into things. We haven’t sailed since last summer, so today is all about getting a feel for the boat again”.

From American Yacht Club we spoke to a young woman named Maddie who was there to have a good day.

The sailors from Pequot Yacht Club came to “win, but also have fun”.

The sailors we spoke to from Cedar Point Yacht Club had two goals. One young man told us that he wanted to place, while his friend confidently told us that he just wanted to finish the race.

Other participants came from ,, Larchmont Yacht Club, Noroton Yacht Club, Indian Harbor Yacht Club, Stamford Yacht Club and Old Greenwich Yacht Club.

Once everyone had checked in, settled themselves, and grabbed some food provided by Indian Harbor Yacht Club, all of the sailors and coaches gathered in the clubhouse for the competitors and coaches meetings. The Indian Harbor YC regatta chairman Dr. Jack Kruse, Principal Race Officer David Seabrook, and Sailing Director Elizabeth Shaw O’Toole, went over the rules, regulations, and emergency protocol for the regatta to ensure that everything would run smoothly. Provided to the sailors and coaches were Sailing Instructions and copies of the emergency plans. Once all questions were answered and everyone was on the same page, the junior sailors and coaches made their way out of the harbor promptly at 10:30 for a great day of racing.

Because this was the first regatta of the 2019 junior sailing season, participants came out to have a good time, sail with friends, have a great day, and remember why they love the sport.

Related posts:

• Previous JSA LIS Head Instructor Workshop 2024
• 2024 Chubb US Youth Keelboat Championship for the Sears Cup Next

JUNIOR SAILING ASSOCIATION OF LONG ISLAND SOUND, INC.

Founded in 1924, the JSA is an independent, non-profit corporation that is tax-exempt under Section 501 (c) (3) of the US Internal Revenue Code, and also in the State of New York.

QUICK LINKS

• Terms of use
• Training for Sailors
• TIDE – WEATHER LINKS
• INSTRUCTORS
• Program Resources
• JSA Member Classifieds
• REGATTA MANAGEMENT
• Copyright © 2020 JSA of LIS

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

Open Daily 10am - 5pm  Plan Your Visit

Yacht Clubs

Indian Harbor Yacht Club

Indian Harbor Yacht Club was founded in 1889 by dedicated sailors intent on being part of the thriving sailing community on Long Island Sound. The club’s mission was to encourage and foster the sport of yachting, the art of yacht design and construction and the science of seamanship and navigation. That mission holds true today as our members continue to excel on the racecourse, embrace the pleasures of cruising and enjoy the camaraderie of fellow members.

Stories from Indian Harbor Yacht Club

The current clubhouse was designed in 1919 by noted American architect Henry Pelton and completed by the Charles Wills Construction Company in 1920 to replace the original shingle-style building which was lost in a fire. Both men were club members and while Pelton is best known for designing the Riverside Cathedral in New York, Commodore Wills’ firm built buildings such as the University Club and the New York Stock Exchange. This same clubhouse, with sweeping views of Captain’s Harbor, is now listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Over the years, our members have contributed to the establishment of national organizations that have defined the sport. These include NAYRU, which we know today as US Sailing, the US Power Squadron, the Yacht Racing Union of Long Island Sound and The American Power Boating Association. They have also participated in America’s Cup Syndicates and have organized international regattas for one-design classes, ocean races and US Youth Championships.

For more than125 years, IHYC members have excelled in sailing at all levels, including fleet racing, one-design racing and ocean racing. IHYC members have won the Transatlantic Race, the Fastnet Race, the Southern Ocean Racing Circuit and the American Power Boat Championships. In addition, the IHYC Junior Sailing Program, founded by Commodores Robert Law and Clifford Mallory in 1924, continues to encourage young mariners to develop skills that will encourage a life-long appreciation of the water.

Susan H. Fisher

Sign up for our Newsletter

Check out our monthly newsletter that includes upcoming events, news and more.

" * " indicates required fields

The Sailing Museum & National Sailing Hall of Fame

365 Thames St. Newport RI 02840 401.324.5761

The Sailing Museum

National sailing hall of fame, get involved.

• Become a Member
• Host an Event

© 2011 – 2024 The Sailing Museum and National Sailing Hall of Fame  |  Privacy Policy   |  Site Credits