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St. Francis Yacht Club

Services Offered

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Venue rental

Review Highlights

“ I enjoyed my lunch (Clippership Room) with a beautiful view of the Golden Gate Bridge to the left and Alcatraz to the right. ” in 14 reviews

“ Despite the perception of this place as a haven for middle-aged pretentious white guys, the vibe changes completely on regatta weekends. ” in 3 reviews

“ If you are not a member , then don't bother trying to get in cuz you'll get rolled out the front doors... ” in 22 reviews

Location & Hours

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700 Marina Blvd

San Francisco, CA 94123

Broderick St & Baker St

Marina/Cow Hollow

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About the Business

St. Francis Yacht Club is a private club known throughout the US and the world as one of the premier yacht clubs. Our clubhouse provides a boating and social venue for our members and their guests. It features large deep-water guest docks, outstanding dining and incredible vistas of the Golden Gate Bridge and San Francisco Bay. The Club’s annual calendar includes a variety of social events from theme parties, and winemaker dinners, to cruises both locally and far away. We host numerous world-class regattas every year, which bring sailors from all over the globe to test their skills on the challenging San Francisco Bay. We are also a very popular location for private events ranging from weddings to corporate meetings. Our classic clubhouse, stunning Bay views, outstanding cuisine and warm, welcoming service make us an ideal location to host memorable events. The Club is recognized as the #1 yacht club in the United States by Platinum Clubs of America and also received the distinction of BoardRoom Magazine's Distinguished Emerald Club Award. …

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Overall rating

103 reviews

I was an invited guest at this yacht club, and a seemingly racist member screamed at me. I was then kicked out. I attended a private event at St. Francis Yacht Club as an invited guest--my friend's company threw a small party to celebrate his move to San Francisco. After the event, we went to the bar area with some members of the yacht club and some non-members. After most people had left and I was having a quiet conversation with two friends at a table, and a woman from the bar came over, got in my face, and started yelling at me. She said that I was a socialist who supports Palestine and she knows that I'm not a member. My table of 3 people included the only 2 nonwhite people at the bar at this time, and we were talking about Burning Man and our summer plans. There was no mention of Palestine or socialism (although it would be our right to have a private conversation about these things if we wished to). The woman said she was from Ukraine and continued screaming at me about Palestine. I assume she targeted me because I'm a young-looking woman of color and fit the demographic of those who support Palestine. My partner, who is white, put out his arm to keep her back from me (she was really in my face) and then she started yelling at him for touching her. After a few minutes of her nonsensical screaming, the bartender came and tapped me on the shoulder. To my surprise, he asked me to leave the club! I asked why I was being asked to leave and he said that I had upset a member. The security guard then escorted us out, although he did privately tell me he thought her behavior was inappropriate, but he had to do whatever the members wanted. I am absolutely disgusted at this racist institution that allows its members to be dictators and use the staff to remove people they don't want in their club. I at no point raised my voice or used any offensive language, and I was still escorted out by security and this belligerent, screaming woman was allowed to remain at the club.

St Francis Yacht Club Watching Blue Angels on a corp boat Fri 10/8/21 Would I have wanted to be a member of this private club? Sure, what's not to like one might ask? Would I have wanted to have my boat parked at San Francis Yacht Basin? Would I have wanted to own a boat in the first place? Here's the scoop of my personal experience. Stepping inside was a mistake. Yes, they have lunches in the Main Dining Room & Clippership Wed, Thur, Fri 12-2:30 pm and 11-2:30 pm on the weekends. Dinners served on the above mentioned days 5-7:30 pm. Grill Room Bar & Trophy Deck will offer you beverage service 5-9 pm Mon & Tue, 5 pm -12 am on Wed, Thur, Fri and beginning at noon till 12 am on the weekends. There was a special buffet lunch in the Main Dining room on the day of my visit, Friday Oct 8. The entrance hall is an expansive space with nicely appointed marine details, high-ceilinged, with gorgeous view of the body of water. A spiral staircase leading upstairs to Main Dining Room displays memorabilia along the walls. There are three intricate model boats on display behind glass covered case. That's where my experience had ended, abruptly. That's as far as I was able to advance. In search for the boat I've been invited to visit, you would think staff would direct you or at least offer help to locate someone who could. Wrong! You'd be irked and embarrassed instead, and asked to leave. After reading reviews I'm not surprised to have been treated this way, apparently Club members are not treated much better. Hospitality? What's that? Arrogance seems to be flying in the air. Polite inquiry here commands back a snooty disdain. Bloated sense of self importance will suffocate you instantly. By the way. I'm wearing Dolce jeans, Italian designer parka, Chrome Hearts eyewear, I'm presentable guy in collectors closing (although I hear they enforce a dress code of no jeans and require men to wear a jacket). Cheers? Not. Review #648 posted with 8 pictures on October 21, 2021 Invitation: San Francis Yacht Basin Marina & Broderick San Francisco St Francis Yacht Club Friday, October 8 at 1:00 PM to Saturday, October 9 at 4:00 PM Please drop by and join us for a casual open house on [boat name], located at the St Francis Yacht Club, and enjoy front row seats to the Blue Angels (they fly Friday and Saturday at 3pm; the boat will be open from noon to 6pm each day). Drinks and light snacks will be provided. Now I understand What you tried to say to me And how you suffered for your sanity And how you tried to set them free They would not listen, they did not know how Perhaps they'll listen now For they could not love you But still your love was true And when no hope was left in sight On that starry, starry night St Francis Yacht Club. San Francisco Fleet Week. Blue Angels 10/8/21

See all photos from Grey R. for St. Francis Yacht Club

I had an event there yesterday.. Pro: It was a perfect day for it and it was a great sight looking out the window capturing all the scenes of sailboats and the Golden Gate Bridge. I do like the layout of the room. Con: At the end of the event, some of the workers were taking food and told my mom we couldn't pack the food (my aunt in law and cousin in law bought) to take home! What in the world is this?! We pay you for the event and the delicious food but can't take it home?! Only to find out from another worker had told us you take it to the break room to eat!!!!!!!! This is unheard of and unacceptable! Do you really think that this is good business?! To me, that's really absurd! I've never NEVER had that happen to me! I hope you all understand that you are here to not to only throw events here but to treat your guests kindly. I don't understand why you didn't let us take food when (like I said above), you take it to the break room to only eat it after we gave you the money to be here and enjoy this day! It was the first and the last time I'm coming here since this made me feel less than a guest. I'm not coming here to be all petty but seriously, do better on this.

Layout of the table and scene of the Golden Gate Bridge

Over the years I have had many memorable meals and enjoyed exceptional events at this beautiful club. However, an incident on Friday night was beyond the pale. Three of us (2 Asian women and a Caucasian man) were chatting and laughing next to the dessert table at the seafood buffet. I was in a blue cocktail dress, our host in a dinner jacket, and our friend was dressed in black. A member, Mrs. Miller, barged in on our conversation glaring us, shouting "What is this, a cocktail party? My husband still waiting for his coffee!" The three of us were shocked and as our jaws hit the ground, she continued, "Don't you work here?!" I managed to blurt out "No!" Mrs. Miller stormed off without her coffee. A bit later, staff who witnessed this confrontation apologized to us and said this was normal for this particular member. I hope someone reports her to the club and she gets called out on her racism. Even if I had been staff, abusing the people who work there cannot be acceptable. She ruined an otherwise wonderful evening.

Our group dined here for lunch today, and it was great. The views were spectacular and the food was very good.

World class yacht club just at the entrance to the golden gate. Beautiful view from every window. And they organize some amazing events.

What a charming event space! Came here for an event during the nighttime and the location was absolutely amazing. The Yacht club hosts absolutely gorgeous views of the Golden Gate and the rolling mountains of San Francisco. Their private beach is also very secluded and quiet. Not sure if its considered private property but would definitely recommend checking it out. The food was also pretty good. The brownies and the blondies were both amazing, not too sweet with walnuts on the inside. I would stray from the chocolate chip cookies though, seems like a store bought item rather than a homemade one. The other little pastries were delicious, especially the steak crostini. Yum! Definitely recommend hosting events here for the amazing views and the good food. Also the venue is just absolutely spectacular. No complaints here!

View outside the club

What a view of the Golden Gate Bridge and Marina waters! I was in awe when looking about and it was near sunset so the natural colors were wonderful. In terms of the Yacht Club, nice dining area and upstairs open bar lounge. Live music was happening. Cash only at the bar. It was a classic kind of vibe attending an event here. More like behave and be proper than get rowdy! It was fun.

This is probably one of the few two star reviews you're going to see. The problem with the restaurant isn't the food all the food is completely over priced they ding you with all kinds of different fees. So you get a couple of drinks and a couple of entrées and you pay over 100 bucks. That's not the problem. The problem is we are members of yacht club and they kept us there for 45 minutes because they had to call over to see if we were actually members of the yacht club. Even with the membership cards. They embarrassed us, the snippy little millennial in front was nasty and rude. I was even more embarrassed because it was my sailor's birthday and he was very embarrassed as well. You cant judge a book by its cover and I'm sorry we are not wearing Gucci and Louis Vuitton but we are the members of the same as everybody else's The only reason it's getting to starters for the view which is probably the most beautiful in the bay.

I've been here a few times now, always for an event, celebration, or just simply yachting our with friends. We always had a great time. Love the wall of fame here, decorated in photos of rich history of this club through out the hall ways and lounge. The ocean view, on a nice day, take you to the San Francisco Bay and under near the famous Golden Gate Bridge, you can't get any better than that. The service is good, the food is fair, and the vibe is not as snobby as it could be. Parking can be a challenged on special days/events so plan it ahead accordingly. And always bring layers when you are here even on a sunny day! This part of town is always 8-10 degree cooler than SoMa or the Embarcadero/The SF Giants Ball Park.

See all photos from Manda Bear B. for St. Francis Yacht Club

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Bay area sailing club membership, modern-sailing-open-house.gif, join a sailing club on san francisco bay.

Our sailing club offers the perks of boat ownership without the maintenance, slip fees, or even the pump-out! Our fleet  in Sausalito consists of 23 monohulls including Beneteau, Jeanneau, and Catalina, and 2 multi-hulls, a, Seawind and Fountaine Pajot Lavezzi. Yachts range from 30 to 44 feet in length and accommodate anywhere from 5 to 12 people. Our yachts are well-maintained by our skilled fleet staff and ready for charter on San Francisco Bay. Our fleet in Berkeley consists of sporty J/24s, J/80s, J/105s, and four cruising monohulls ranging in size from 30' to 37'.

Our bareboat charter fleet is available to Modern Sailing members who have completed ASA 103 and above or who have successfully completed a Fleet Rating Checkout with one of our experienced captains. Inexperienced sailors are invited to join an Introductory Sail to experience what San Francisco Bay sailing is all about.

Sausalito and Berkeley Sailing Locations 

Modern Sailing has locations in Sausalito and Berkeley to offer Bay Area sailors with expanded and diverse opportunities for learning, fun, and friendship on both sides of the Bay. In addition to cruising boat options similar to what's available in Sausalito, Berkeley's fleet of J/Boats provide the means for a robust sportboat, performance, and racing program in the East Bay.

Get inspired! Sailing a wider variety of boats among different scenery, wind and tidal patterns will invigorate your sailing and keep it fresh. 

Meet Bay Area Sailors

When you join Modern, you become a part of our thriving sailing community. All members are invited to attend Club Sails with other members on the weekends and for special events like the Sausalito Lighted Boat Parade, Fourth of July Fireworks, Giants Games, Full Moon Sails, Opening Day on the Bay, and Fleet Week. We help you meet other sailors working towards the same cruising goals via our members-only email distribution list, Facebook Crew List group, and Slack channel. During the summer, members and their guests are invited to our Après Sails for cold beverages and snacks, Saturdays and Sundays 3:30 to 5:00pm.

Learn to Sail, Destination Sailing Vacations, and Skippered Charters

No matter what your sailing goals are, we will help you take the helm to reach them. If you are new to sailing, explore our ASA Courses and speciality Sailing Clinics . Take your sailing skills beyond the Golden Gate Bridge and overseas when you join us for a Pacific Coast Expedition or a Global Destinations Sailing Vacation . Book a Skippered Sail for a private lesson or to simply enjoy sailing San Francisco Bay with a USCG Captain on hand.

We offer more than just a place to charter a sailboat. We’re dedicated to helping you reach your sailing goals and grow your sailing community. 

There are three ways to sign up for a membership:

• Call our office at (415) 331-8250.
• Send us an email.
• Buy online here!

12 reasons to become a Modern Sailing Member

Two Locations - Your Modern Sailing club membership gives you membership priviledges at both of our Bay Area locations!

• In beautiful Sausalito at the Marina Plaza Harbor
• In a park-like setting at the Berkeley Marina
• No matter which our of locations you choose to sail from, once you leave harbor, you are moments away from some of the best sailing in the world! You will also have access to some of the best anchorages and harbors: Clipper Cove at Treasure Island, South Beach Harbor in San Francisco, Ayala Cove at Angel Island, China Camp in San Pablo Bay, and more.

Charter Privileges - Modern Sailing has a diverse fleet of boats ranging from 30 to 44 feet. Each boat is professionally maintained and offers unique characteristics, to provide you a wide range of charter options at a discounted rate. View the Fleet.   Our Berkeley location also offers an exciting sportboat fleet consisting of J/Boat models J/24, J/80, J/88, J/99, and J/105.

Discounts on Courses - Save between 10 - 25% on ASA courses, clinics, and specialty programs.

Online Booking - Using our online booking system, you can quickly view boat availability and secure your charter, course, and clinics online: 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Parties and Events - Modern Sailing is not only a sailing club, but also a social club - and there is always something happening! Whether it's a BBQ or Après Sail, member party, wine pourings or speaker series, our members enjoy a wide range of social activities.

Member Club Sails - Weekly group sails are fun, informal and skippered by members of the club who are both friendly and supportive. Practice your skills as the skipper or as crew. You can extend your member benefits for these sails to two adult guests per sail. Learn more about Club Sails .

Join a Modern Sailing Race Team - In addition to racing clinics, join a Member Race Team that fits your goals and racing style.

Online Crew List  - Modern Sailing is now on Facebook . Members can join the Modern Sailing Crew List to get connected. This is a great place to post shared charter opportunities and offset your cost.

Discounts on International Charter Bookings - Receive a substantial discount when you book a vacation charter. Discounts vary depending on charter location, dates, and boat.

Reciprocal Privileges - As a member of the Modern Sailing Club, you receive reciprocal privileges with many other west coast sailing clubs, meaning your membership expands your sailing opportunities beyond San Francisco Bay.   View Reciprocal Clubs

Yacht Club Partnerships - Ask us about discounted initiation and access to local yacht clubs.

Better Than Boat Ownership  - Modern Sailing offers our members access to sailing without the ongoing costs of ownership. Members receive discounted rates on bareboat charters and courses.

Membership Details

Monthly Dues : For all memberships initiated or re-initiated after March 1, 2023, monthly dues are $65/Individual, $80/Partners.

New Member One-Time Initiation Fee = $500

If you are learning to sail with Modern Sailing, your completed course(s) qualifies you for bareboat chartering.

If you are an experienced sailor joining the club and would like to bareboat charter, you can undergo a Fleet Rating Checkout to qualify for chartering a range of boat sizes and types that best match your experience. You may choose to join one of our prescheduled Fleet Rating Checkout Clinics , or you can opt for a Private Checkout and schedule your checkout to suit your schedule.

Cruising Boat Checkout Clinic Price : $220 per individual Cruising Boat Private Checkou t: $385

Sportboat Checkout Clinic Price : $165 per individual Sportboat Private Checkout : $275

Checkout Clinic Duration : 4+ hours (dependent on number of enrolled clients) Private Checkout Duration : 4 hours

Checkout rates also apply to Reciprocal and Corporate members.

Package Specials - If you're planning on taking two or more ASA courses, save up to 20% on your membership initiation and courses by purchasing a bundled  Package Special .

Other Club Membership Details

• There are no contracts to sign and memberships are on a month-to-month basis.
• Monthly dues are charged your credit card on file on the 1st of every month.
• Need to put your membership on hold? We offer a complimentary one-time, 3-month hold on membership monthly fees - without terminating your membership.
• Refer a friend to Modern Sailing, and if they sign up, you'll receive a $100 referral credit, and they receive a $50 credit!
• Call our office at (415) 331-8250.
• Send us an email.
• Buy Online Here!

News & Events

First impressions of the j/24 sportboat - by spinnaker sailing instructor dave goeke.

Dave Goeke, a seasoned sailor with over 40 years of experience on the Bay, recently had his first encounter with the J/24 sportboat model. Despite his extensive sailing background, Dave had primarily sailed the Merit 25, which he has used as an ASA 101 teaching vessel for nearly two decades. The introduction of the new ASA 102, Performance Sailing course, led Dave to Modern Sailing in Berkeley, where he spent a day "learning the ropes" of the J/24 under the guidance of Senior Instructor Eric Wittig. This article captures Dave's insights and comparisons between the J/24 and the Merit 25, highlighting the distinct characteristics and performance differences that make each boat unique.

• Read more about First Impressions of the J/24 Sportboat - by Spinnaker Sailing Instructor Dave Goeke

Reuven Trabin's Lifelong Passion for Small Boat Sailing

Reuven Trabin’s journey into the world of sailing began in the late 1970s aboard simple sailboats on the warm waters of Israel, where the thrill of harnessing the wind ignited an enduring passion for the sport. Over the decades, particularly after relocating to the Bay Area, Reuven navigated the challenges and opportunities of career and fatherhood, eventually formalizing his skills, and deepening his interest in sportboat sailing.

• Read more about Reuven Trabin's Lifelong Passion for Small Boat Sailing

Dockside Briefings - Pre-Charter Orientations for J/Boats and Coho II

At Modern Sailing, we understand that choosing the perfect boat for your charter can sometimes be challenging, especially if you're accustomed to a particular vessel and you haven't tried others with configurations that may be unfamiliar to you.

• Read more about Dockside Briefings - Pre-Charter Orientations for J/Boats and Coho II

Sailing is the perfect choice for your team building event - here's why!

A sailing regatta provides a memorable and impactful team building experience that promotes collaboration, learning, trust, and communication, making it an ideal choice for corporate teams looking to strengthen bonds and foster a culture of teamwork and excellence.

• Read more about Sailing is the perfect choice for your team building event - here's why!

2024 Club Race Teams

BYC Beer Can and SYC Sunset Series Open for Enrollment!

• Read more about 2024 Club Race Teams

Meet Our Newest Club Skippers, Winter 2024

With completion of our February Club Skipper Clinic, Modern Sailing proudly welcomes four new Club Skippers into our Club Sail program, marking another milestone for our growing community.

• Read more about Meet Our Newest Club Skippers, Winter 2024

Bridging Waters: An MSC Member's Mission for Parkinson's Awareness, Inspired by Sailor Bertrand Delhom

Inspired by Bertrand Delhom, a sailor with Parkinson's Disease who is crewing aboard  Neptune in the Ocean Globe Race, Modern Sailing member Amy Bridge is helping to raise awareness and funds for Parkinson's research.

• Read more about Bridging Waters: An MSC Member's Mission for Parkinson's Awareness, Inspired by Sailor Bertrand Delhom

Five Reasons To Savor Winter Sailing

Banish the winter blues and cool your cabin fever with more time on the water! Modern Sailing gives members five reasons to love winter sailing.

• Read more about Five Reasons To Savor Winter Sailing

How to Get Rated to Charter with a Spinnaker at Modern Sailing

Ready to elevate your sailing experience – especially in winter, or whenever wind conditions are light? Modern Sailing is now making it possible for you to experience the uplifting joys of flying an asymmetrical spinnaker during your bareboat charters!

• Read more about How to Get Rated to Charter with a Spinnaker at Modern Sailing

Is Sailing for You? 5 Signs You Could Fall in Love with Sailing

Do you feel drawn to sailing, but your fears are causing hesitation? Hesitate no more! Here are five signs you might enjoy (or even fall in the love with) sailing, along with some reassuring notes to help address some of your possible fears.

• Read more about Is Sailing for You? 5 Signs You Could Fall in Love with Sailing

2024 Sailing Events in San Francisco, California

From community boat parades and regattas to the latest innovations in the yacht racing world, you can find it on SF Bay. Mark your calendars and find out how you can experience the Bay's most sensational sailing-related events!

• Read more about 2024 Sailing Events in San Francisco, California

Modern Sailing's 2023 - a year to remember!

2023 was a year to remember, presenting many big "firsts" in Modern Sailing's history. Throughout this year, we've come together as eager newcomers, seasoned skippers, and everything between.

• Read more about Modern Sailing's 2023 - a year to remember!

2023 Sausalito Lighted Boat Parade - maybe the brightest ever!

Year after year, the Sausalito Lighted Boat Parade and Fireworks Show is a favorite event of our members and staff, and 2023 did not disappoint! Mild weather, dozens of decorated boats, and a dazzling fireworks shows made this year's parade among the most spectacular in memory.

• Read more about 2023 Sausalito Lighted Boat Parade - maybe the brightest ever!

Setting Sail for Big Adventures: Three Ways to Prepare for Epic Voyaging

Have you found yourself bitten by the sailing bug, imagining buying a boat of your own to sail over far horizons? Are you harboring big dreams to charter abroad, cross oceans, or sail around the world? In this article, learn about the best ways to get prepared for cruising adventures and receive some words of advice and inspiration from experienced Modern sailors in our community.

• Read more about Setting Sail for Big Adventures: Three Ways to Prepare for Epic Voyaging

Cruising Croatia 2023 Flotilla Highlights

As always, Croatia is an incredible cruising ground, the most active sailing area in Europe. While this can lead to crowded anchorages, there are ample alternatives to the more popular spots.

• Read more about Cruising Croatia 2023 Flotilla Highlights

Club Race Teams Make Their Debuts

Modern Sailing's Club Race Team Program provides an avenue for sailors with prior racing experience to work together as a team over an entire season and to develop their skills towards more advanced racing.

• Read more about Club Race Teams Make Their Debuts

J/99 "Mymble" Makes a Splash with Modern Sailors

Step aboard the J/99 named Mymble through the words of Modern sailors who've experienced the thrill and finesse that this exceptional vessel offers.

• Read more about J/99 "Mymble" Makes a Splash with Modern Sailors

Five Reasons To Race with Modern Sailing

Beyond the obvious fun and challenge, learn about five of the life-enhancing benefits you can experience by racing on San Francisco Bay with the Modern Sailing Racing Team.

• Read more about Five Reasons To Race with Modern Sailing

Gift Ideas for Modern Sailors

With gift ideas for every budget, this helpful list of sailing accessories and suggested sailing lessons makes it easy to please your favorite sailor or sailor-to-be.

• Read more about Gift Ideas for Modern Sailors

2023 Holiday Closures

MSC is open year-round, 7 days per week - with a few special exceptions. To allow our dedicated and hard-working staff to rest, sail, and enjoy celebrating the holiday season, our office and fleet operations are closed on the dates listed here.

• Read more about 2023 Holiday Closures

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Testimonials.

Every aspect of Modern Sailing - training, syllabus, course materials, quality of the boats, quality of the instructors, and the very friendly and helpful staff - exceeded my expectations. Modern Sailing has a first class sailing program in an environment with challenging winds and currents. I look forward to coming back to charter a boat and certainly plan to continue my sailing training.

I've taken two classes at MSS&C and was very happy with the program. This is also a great club with lots of opportunities for camaraderie and practice on the water. The boats in the fleet are fantastic and kept in tip-top shape. I highly recommend for all sailors and would-be sailors!

Captain Jeff Cathers is really cool. I had such a great time on the Farallones Day Trip . It was actually my very best day of 2020. Thank you so much for coordinating the trip.

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Modern Sailing School & Club

Sausalito Location 2310 Marinship Way, Sausalito, CA 94965 (415) 331-8250 (800) 995-1668

Berkeley Location 1 Spinnaker Way, Berkeley, CA 94710 (415) 331-8250 (800) 995-1668

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Discover the Best Yacht Club in San Francisco: A Comprehensive Guide

Table of Contents

Introduction

San Francisco is known for its breathtaking scenery and world-class sailing opportunities. With its mild climate and picturesque coastline, it’s no wonder that many people choose to make boating a part of their lifestyle. If you’re looking to join a yacht club in San Francisco, you want to make sure you’re choosing the right one. After all, your yacht club will be your gateway to the water and the sailing community. In this blog post, we’ll explore the best yacht clubs in San Francisco and help you find the one that’s right for you. Whether you’re an experienced sailor or just starting out, there’s a yacht club in San Francisco that can help you take your boating to the next level.

Overview of San Francisco Yacht Clubs

San Francisco is home to a variety of yacht clubs, each with its own unique history and culture. The first yacht club in San Francisco was the San Francisco Yacht Club, founded in 1869. Since then, many other yacht clubs have emerged in the area, ranging from small and informal clubs to larger, more formal organizations.

Some of the most well-known yacht clubs in San Francisco include:

St. Francis Yacht Club

This prestigious club was founded in 1927 and is located in the Marina District of San Francisco. It has a rich history of hosting world-class sailing events and is known for its top-notch facilities.

Corinthian Yacht Club

Founded in 1886, the Corinthian Yacht Club is located in Tiburon, just across the Golden Gate Bridge from San Francisco. It offers a range of sailing programs and is known for its family-friendly atmosphere.

South Beach Yacht Club

Founded in 1988, the South Beach Yacht Club is a more informal club located in the heart of San Francisco’s South Beach neighborhood. It offers a variety of programs and events, including racing and cruising.

In the next section, we’ll discuss the factors you should consider when choosing the best yacht club in San Francisco.

Criteria for Choosing the Best Yacht Club

Choosing the right yacht club is an important decision that requires careful consideration. Here are some factors to keep in mind when selecting a yacht club in San Francisco:

The location of the yacht club is an important factor to consider, as it will determine the type of sailing experiences that are available to you. Some clubs are located on the bay itself, while others are located in nearby marinas or coves. Consider what type of sailing you want to do and choose a club that is conveniently located for those activities.

Yacht clubs offer a variety of amenities, such as dining facilities, showers, and storage for boats and equipment. Consider the amenities that are important to you and choose a club that offers them.

Membership Options

Yacht clubs offer different types of memberships, including full-time memberships, social memberships, and temporary memberships. Consider your budget and the amount of time you plan to spend at the club when selecting a membership option.

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Yacht club fees can vary widely depending on the club and the type of membership. Be sure to carefully review the fees associated with each club and membership option to ensure that you can afford the cost.

Finally, consider the culture of the yacht club. Each club has its own unique personality and vibe, and it’s important to find a club that aligns with your own values and interests.

In the next section, we’ll explore some of the best yacht clubs in San Francisco and how they measure up against these criteria.

Best Yacht Clubs in San Francisco

Now that we’ve covered the criteria for choosing the best yacht club in San Francisco, let’s take a closer look at some of the top clubs in the area and how they measure up:

Located in the Marina District, the St. Francis Yacht Club is known for its world-class facilities and premier sailing programs. The club offers a variety of membership options, including full-time, social, and junior memberships. However, fees can be quite high, so it may not be the best option for those on a tight budget.

The Corinthian Yacht Club is located in Tiburon and offers a family-friendly atmosphere with a range of sailing programs and social events. The club has a variety of membership options, including full-time and social memberships, and is known for its reasonable fees.

The South Beach Yacht Club is located in San Francisco’s South Beach neighborhood and offers a more informal, community-focused atmosphere. The club offers a range of programs and events, including racing and cruising, and has a variety of membership options to suit different needs and budgets.

San Francisco Yacht Club

The San Francisco Yacht Club is one of the oldest clubs in the area and is located in Belvedere. The club offers a range of sailing programs and events, including racing and cruising, and has a variety of membership options, including full-time and social memberships.

Each of these yacht clubs offers something unique, so it’s important to consider your individual needs and preferences when selecting a club.

In the next section, we’ll compare these clubs in more detail to help you make an informed decision.

Comparison of Top Yacht Clubs in San Francisco

To help you make an informed decision, let’s compare some of the top yacht clubs in San Francisco based on the criteria we discussed earlier:

All of the clubs are located in or near the San Francisco Bay, but the St. Francis Yacht Club has the most convenient location for those who want to sail on the bay itself.

The St. Francis Yacht Club has the most extensive facilities, including multiple dining options, a fitness center, and a spa. The other clubs offer more basic amenities, such as showers and storage for boats and equipment.

All of the clubs offer a variety of membership options, but the Corinthian Yacht Club has the most affordable options and a more family-friendly atmosphere.

The fees for each club vary widely, with the St. Francis Yacht Club being the most expensive and the Corinthian Yacht Club being the most affordable.

Each club has its own unique culture, with the St. Francis Yacht Club being known for its prestigious reputation and the South Beach Yacht Club offering a more relaxed, community-focused atmosphere.

Based on these factors, the best yacht club in San Francisco will depend on your individual needs and preferences. If you’re looking for a more formal, prestigious atmosphere with extensive facilities, the St. Francis Yacht Club may be the best choice. However, if you’re looking for a more affordable, family-friendly option with a community-focused atmosphere, the Corinthian Yacht Club or the South Beach Yacht Club may be a better fit.

In the final section, we’ll summarize the key points and offer some final thoughts on choosing the best yacht club in San Francisco.

Final Thoughts on Choosing the Best Yacht Club in San Francisco

Choosing the best yacht club in San Francisco is a personal decision that depends on a variety of factors, including location, amenities, membership options, fees, and culture. To make the best decision, it’s important to consider your individual needs and preferences, as well as the specific offerings of each club.

While the St. Francis Yacht Club may offer the most extensive facilities and amenities, it may not be the best choice for those on a tight budget. Similarly, while the Corinthian Yacht Club may be the most affordable option, it may not offer the same prestigious atmosphere as some of the other clubs.

Ultimately, the best yacht club for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences. We encourage you to visit multiple clubs and speak with current members to get a sense of the culture and offerings of each club before making a decision.

We hope this guide has been helpful in your search for the best yacht club in San Francisco. Whether you’re a seasoned sailor or a novice looking to learn, San Francisco offers a variety of top-notch yacht clubs to suit every need and budget. Happy sailing!

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Join The GGYC and become a member of an active yacht club with a wide variety of sailing and club offerings available to its members.

Founded in 1939 as the Puerto de Oro Yacht Club (Port of the Golden Harbor). Our founding fathers started the club as a foundation to promote both water sports and affordable boating to our local community. This has remained our mainstay and is one of the focal points of our Club adding to our reputation of being the “Friendliest Club on the Bay” and allows for camaraderie with fellow sailors from around the Bay and beyond.

The Golden Gate Yacht Club is a fully functional yacht club with a full-time staff and nearly three hundred members. The Golden Gate Yacht Club welcomes non boaters, sail and power boaters and their crew to its membership ranks. Membership in the GGYC also affords reciprocal rights to the City Club of San Francisco, University Club and Marine’s Memorial as well as most yacht clubs worldwide.

Members enjoy social activities such as Opening Day on the Bay, our renowned Lobster Feed, Fleet Week Bar-b-Que (best view on the Bay to see the Fleet arrive and watch the Blue Angels perform), Bunny and Santa-by-Boat Brunches, San Francisco Firemen’s Toy Drive for Under Privileged Children, New Year’s Day Brunch and other themed events.

On the water, Members enjoy recreational sailing on the club’s fleet and our regatta schedule provides many racing opportunities.

The GGYC also offers bar and dining service with dazzling views of San Francisco Bay, the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz, and Marin.

Join us and enjoy:

• First class facility on San Francisco Bay with rooms, decks and balconies that offer breathtaking panoramic Golden Gate and bay views.
• An ideal location for small or large corporate functions and seminars. Members receive discounted rental rates
• Recreation sailing and racing on the club’s fleet of J/22s
• Famous Mid-Winter Manuel Fagundes Seaweed Soup Regatta and Friday Night Beer Can Series and other YRA regattas
• Youth Sailing program for San Francisco High School students
• An active Associate member program (ages 21-29)

Download our membership brochure

Applications

The Golden Gate Yacht Club is currently accepting applications. The club has various classes of membership, including Regular, Associate and Corinthian. GGYC is a member club of the Pacific Inter-Club Yacht Association (PICYA). Club members enjoy reciprocal visiting privileges with most recognized yacht clubs in the world.

Applicants for membership to the Club shall not be discriminated against on the basis of race, color, religion, age, ancestry, national origin, sex, political affiliation, sexual orientation, disability or any other grounds prohibited by law.

For inquiries, to talk to a member, fill out the request form on the side of this page or email [email protected]

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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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A Tale of Two San Francisco Yacht Clubs

• By John Branch/New York Times
• Updated: September 5, 2013

Twenty years ago, before its failing finances were rescued by the billionaire Larry Ellison and before it won the America’s Cup, the Golden Gate Yacht Club was just a forlorn building at the end of a quarter-mile jetty. To get there, its members had to pass by the exclusive St. Francis Yacht Club, one of the most prestigious in the world.

The Golden Gate and the St. Francis shared the best views of the bay — the Golden Gate Bridge to the left, Alcatraz to the right, the city perched on hills behind. But in the cloistered world of yacht clubs, they could not have been more different.

The 200 or so Golden Gate members had a key to the building, which meant that its bar was subject to the honor system, but never to last call.

“So you left Union Street with a beautiful lady,” said Bill O’Keeffe, a member since 1972. “And you’d say, ‘How’d you like to come down to my yacht club?’ ”

Dues were $25 a month. Dancing atop the bar was encouraged. Friday night parties sometimes ended with swims in the boat marina, though not always in swim attire — or attire of any kind. Members occasionally lobbed water balloons or shot water guns at boats entering or exiting the marina, especially those flying the colors of the St. Francis.

“It had prestige,” O’Keeffe said of the neighboring club. “We actually shunned prestige.”

That became hard to do when Ellison walked away from negotiations with the St. Francis, where he was a member, to sponsor his quest to win the America’s Cup in 2003. Ellison soon accepted a desperate plea from Norbert Bajurin, the owner of a radiator-repair shop in San Francisco, to join the nearly bankrupt Golden Gate next door.

And when that combination won yachting’s biggest prize in Valencia, Spain, in 2010, on Ellison’s third try, the Golden Gate Yacht Club became the sixth — and unlikeliest — winner in the trophy’s 160-year history.

Golden Gate 1, St. Francis 0.

That day in Spain, Ellison stood behind Bajurin and put his hand on his shoulder as they awaited the winner’s news conference.

“I could feel his beard on me, and I could feel his breath,” Bajurin said. “And he said, ‘I wonder what the St. Francis is thinking now.’ ”

When the 34th America’s Cup begins on Saturday, pitting Ellison’s Oracle Team USA against Emirates Team New Zealand in a best-of-17 series that could last two weeks, the Golden Gate and the St. Francis will sit, side by side, sharing the best views of the races on San Francisco Bay.

In the coming weeks, if the trophy is successfully defended, it will be carried to a party at the little clubhouse at the end of the spit. But first, it will pass the large yacht-club home of corporate titans and Olympic sailors, past a club with an esteemed history of winning every major sailing race in the world, except the biggest one.

Continue reading at New York Times .

CW senior editor Herb McCormick will be in San Francisco for the big showdown between Oracle Team USA and Emirates Team New Zealand in the 34th America’s Cup—check out cruisingworld.com for his updates and photos!

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

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

Local or Less Exclusive Yacht Clubs

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

Mid-Range Yacht Clubs:

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

Prestigious or Exclusive Yacht Clubs

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

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

Additional Considerations

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

Bottom Line: Simply Ask If Interested

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

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

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

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

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

But how much do Yacht Club memberships generally cost?

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

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

Table of Contents

What Does Each Yacht Club Offer?

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

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

Charleston Yacht Club

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

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

Florida Yacht Club

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

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

Atlanta Yacht Club

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

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

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

Chicago Yacht Club

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

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

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

California Yacht Club

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

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

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

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

What are the Cheapest Yacht Clubs?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Related Article: How Long Do Sailboats Last?

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

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

Amenities and Activities

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

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

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

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

Access to the Fleet

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

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

Are There any Additional Costs Besides the Membership Fees?

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

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

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

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

Is a Yacht Club Membership Right for You?

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

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In San Francisco, It’s Rich Club, Poor Club

By John Branch

• Sept. 4, 2013

SAN FRANCISCO — Twenty years ago, before its failing finances were rescued by the billionaire Larry Ellison and before it won the America’s Cup, the Golden Gate Yacht Club was just a forlorn building at the end of a quarter-mile jetty. To get there, its members had to pass by the exclusive St. Francis Yacht Club, one of the most prestigious in the world.

The Golden Gate and the St. Francis shared the best views of the bay — the Golden Gate Bridge to the left, Alcatraz to the right, the city perched on hills behind. But in the cloistered world of yacht clubs, they could not have been more different.

The 200 or so Golden Gate members had a key to the building, which meant that its bar was subject to the honor system, but never to last call.

“So you left Union Street with a beautiful lady,” said Bill O’Keeffe, a member since 1972. “And you’d say, ‘How’d you like to come down to my yacht club?’ ”

Dues were $25 a month. Dancing atop the bar was encouraged. Friday night parties sometimes ended with swims in the boat marina, though not always in swim attire — or attire of any kind. Members occasionally lobbed water balloons or shot water guns at boats entering or exiting the marina, especially those flying the colors of the St. Francis.

“It had prestige,” O’Keeffe said of the neighboring club. “We actually shunned prestige.”

That became hard to do when Ellison walked away from negotiations with the St. Francis, where he was a member, to sponsor his quest to win the America’s Cup in 2003. Ellison soon accepted a desperate plea from Norbert Bajurin, the owner of a radiator-repair shop in San Francisco, to join the nearly bankrupt Golden Gate next door.

And when that combination won yachting’s biggest prize in Valencia, Spain, in 2010, on Ellison’s third try, the Golden Gate Yacht Club became the sixth — and unlikeliest — winner in the trophy’s 160-year history.

Golden Gate 1, St. Francis 0.

That day in Spain, Ellison stood behind Bajurin and put his hand on his shoulder as they awaited the winner’s news conference.

“I could feel his beard on me, and I could feel his breath,” Bajurin said. “And he said, ‘I wonder what the St. Francis is thinking now.’ ”

When the 34th America’s Cup begins on Saturday, pitting Ellison’s Oracle Team USA against Emirates Team New Zealand in a best-of-17 series that could last two weeks, the Golden Gate and the St. Francis will sit, side by side, sharing the best views of the races on San Francisco Bay.

In the coming weeks, if the trophy is successfully defended, it will be carried to a party at the little clubhouse at the end of the spit. But first, it will pass the large yacht-club home of corporate titans and Olympic sailors, past a club with an esteemed history of winning every major sailing race in the world, except the biggest one.

Let’s Make a Deal

The St. Francis had attempted to win the America’s Cup in 2000. The member Paul Cayard skippered AmericaOne into the finals of the Louis Vuitton Cup, a sort of semifinal to determine who would challenge the defending champion in the America’s Cup. AmericaOne lost.

By then, Ellison, the founder and chief executive of Oracle, had built his résumé with major sailing victories for a team that he financed and sometimes skippered. He bought the assets from the AmericaOne team with the intention of creating the top challenger from the United States for the next America’s Cup, in 2003.

It was presumed that the St. Francis, which Ellison had joined several years earlier, would shepherd his quest. Negotiations were sticky. The two sides were unwilling to cede too much control.

The club wanted to name the boat. It refused to guarantee that Ellison, should his team win the America’s Cup, would be chosen to defend it if and when the race went to San Francisco Bay. It rejected a request to form a board within the St. Francis board of directors that would exclusively handle matters related to the America’s Cup.

Bajurin and other members of the Golden Gate Yacht Club heard whispers and read news media accounts of the failing negotiations. The club was $453,000 in debt.

“Everybody was having a good time, and no one was paying attention to the books,” Bajurin said.

Keys were collected. Booze was locked up. Food service was eliminated. Desperate for cash, the club talked of adding a vending machine, because it might bring in $300 a month. Members who had not quit were asked to advance money to save the club. Some paid. More quit.

Bajurin and other club officers debated whether to place the Golden Gate in bankruptcy or to shutter it entirely. With nothing to lose, Bajurin tried to reach Ellison at Oracle. He never heard back. He found an e-mail address for Bill Erkelens, who led Ellison’s sailing team.

“Golden Gate Yacht Club Available,” he wrote in the subject line. “Our club may be your answer.”

The response came the next day. Erkelens wanted to talk.

“I remember looking at that e-mail for almost two hours, thinking you’ve got to be kidding me,” Bajurin said. “They responded!”

A deal was signed less than three months later, in early 2001. For Ellison, it gave him a club willing to acquiesce to his requests, a club with a location as good as that of the St. Francis.

“We were very flexible, and very broke,” said Ron Matlin, the Golden Gate’s longtime accountant.

The deal saved the Golden Gate. Ellison and his team of 100 immediately joined the yacht club — each paying the $1,000 membership fee and a year’s worth of $90-per-month dues. Bills were slowly paid. Debts were eased. Membership grew again. The clubhouse was spruced up.

“If we hadn’t done the Oracle deal, the club wouldn’t be here,” Matlin said. “No question.”

Ellison is one of the world’s richest people. Bajurin is a Croatian immigrant, more of a fisher than a sailor, a former police officer who took over his father’s radiator shop and now has nine employees. He drives a Nissan truck.

Their unusual pairing spawned a book — “The Billionaire and the Mechanic,” by the San Francisco Chronicle reporter Julian Guthrie — published this year. And it brought the America’s Cup to San Francisco Bay for the first time, right in front of two clubs that share one spit.

Worlds Apart

Both clubs have been decked out for a summer’s worth of warm-up races. The narrow parking lot between them holds temporary bleachers facing the bay, backing to the boat-filled marina they share.

Visitors might not ascertain which club is hosting the event, even if they were allowed inside the ultra-private St. Francis. Past the signs instructing guests to stay outside until escorted in by a member and past the security desk, a large model of Ellison’s 72-foot America’s Cup catamaran sits in the lobby. There are viewing parties during races. The club’s Web site offers “America’s Cup Information” just above the pronouncement that it was recently named the No. 1 yacht club in the country.

If there is America’s Cup envy, the signs are not obvious.

“No one says it,” Brian Madden, a rare member of both clubs, said of the St. Francis. “But you know it’s there. You can sense it.”

He sometimes wears a Golden Gate Yacht Club sweater into the St. Francis, receiving some playful jeers. “It’s like winning the Super Bowl,” Madden said. “We could have had it, but we just gave it to the other team.”

Members of both clubs said there was no hostility between the two. Rivalries are usually between equals, and no one believes that the St. Francis and the Golden Gate have ever been the same thing, beyond location and an affection for open water.

The St. Francis has roughly 2,300 members, and initiation fees — kept private — are said to be as high as $30,000, less for younger prospects as it tries to attract a more youthful crowd. It is not unlike a fancy golf or tennis country club, with a marina and bay view instead of courts and grass. (And, a few hours away by boat on the San Joaquin River, is club-owned Tinsley Island, with full facilities and space for 100 boats.)

Cellphones are not permitted. Neither are hats. It has a full dining room — jackets required — and its kitchen might be larger than the entire 7,000 square feet of the Golden Gate. There is a relatively casual bar and grill on the lower level, and a sprawling mix of rooms — a chart room built like an estate library, meeting rooms paneled in dark wood, walls lined with trophies and boat models and historic photographs and paintings. There is a gift shop. The lower level has locker rooms, a workout room and a sauna. There are set hours each day, and the schedule is flush with regattas, dinners, auctions and wine tastings.

In the fiscal year ending Nov. 30, 2011, it had revenue of $12.9 million, according to Internal Revenue Service filings.

The Golden Gate, by comparison, reported revenue of about $662,000 in 2011. Membership has grown to about 425. Initiation fees are about $2,500, and monthly dues are $125.

“They’re 10 times the size,” the longtime Golden Gate member Ned Barrett said of the St. Francis. “And have 10 times the resources.”

Amid its newfound prestige — no longer shunned, but sheepishly noted — the Golden Gate tries to cling to its blue-collar sensibilities. Gone, perhaps, are the days when a member’s birthday would be greeted by a woman jumping from a cake — one a few years ago then moved to the roof to promote and sell her various talents — but members hope to retain its sleepy, everybody-knows-your-name personality. Hours of operation are flexible. The general manager Bob Mulhern will close the doors at night if there is no one around. Some days, only a few members stop by.

The building was closed for several months this year and renovated in time for the America’s Cup crowds, with new floors, furniture and an elevator, mostly. Still, jeans are allowed. So are cellphones and hats. And while dancing atop the bar occurs with less frequency, it is still welcomed.

“At the St. Francis, you would be put on probation for six months,” said John Yelda, a well-known charter-boat captain and sailboat racer who is a member of both clubs.

Yelda keeps his boats in the marina behind the clubs. (One way to tell club members apart? Golden Gate members are the ones working on their boats; St. Francis members usually hire someone else, several people said, only half joking.) His routine often includes an afternoon beer at the Golden Gate and dinner at the St. Francis.

“We have two yacht clubs, side by side,” Yelda said. “This is a blessing.”

The difference, to him, is one of taste.

“The Golden Gate is like a little boutique hotel,” Yelda said. “It’s very friendly, small, intimate. Everybody knows you. St. Francis Yacht Club is more like a Four Seasons hotel. It has a lot more members, and has exquisite service. You don’t know everyone there, but the staff knows you.”

Madden, a 45-year-old electrician, joined the Golden Gate 20 years ago, when he was single and had a hand-me-down boat he bought for $4,500. He joined the St. Francis 10 years later, where he subsequently married, where his children celebrate birthdays, and where the family eats formal holiday meals at Easter, Mother’s Day, Thanksgiving and Christmas.

People with a lot of money, Madden said, merely want the nicest things. That goes for houses, cars and yacht clubs.

“If you have the money, you’re not going to the Golden Gate,” he said. “You’re going to run to the St. Francis.”

But not everyone. David Anderman is a weekend sailor and the general manager for Lucasfilm. He has been credited with negotiating the company’s $4 billion acquisition by Disney in 2012. Married with two daughters, ages 9 and 11, Anderman looked carefully at both clubs a couple of years ago before choosing the Golden Gate.

“Really, it’s all about where you want to be and who you want to be with,” he said.

His family sat at a table nearby, overlooking the sailboats racing on the bay. Out the corner window, they could see the Golden Gate Bridge in the distance and the St. Francis Yacht Club next door.

“It doesn’t hurt that it’s the home of the America’s Cup,” Anderman said. “I have to say, half the time you come out, they’ve got the America’s Cup trophy sitting right there.”

He scrolled through his phone and showed photographs he had taken with the three-foot trophy, made of sterling silver in 1848.

Bajurin stood near the bar, grinning with pride. The day’s races were soon over, but the day’s 120 members and guests were in no hurry to leave.

“Look at these guys,” he said. “They’re having the time of their lives. They’ve got the America’s Cup.”

His smiling eyes filled with tears.

“Right now, we’re running with it,” Bajurin said. “We’re having a good time. If we lose, yeah, we’ll be sad. But we’ll always be part of history.”

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