the royal sydney yacht squadron

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Christian brook elected as the new commodore of the royal sydney yacht squadron.

The historic and much-loved Royal Sydney Yacht Squadron conducted its 159 th Annual General Meeting last night with over 190 members in attendance.  To comply with Covid regulations, the meeting was held online.

In opening, Commodore David Ward marked the passing of their Patron the Duke of Edinburgh and a moment’s silence was held to pay respect to departed Members.

Commodore Ward thank the Club CEO and staff for adroitly adapting club services to engage Members and generate income. Though curtailed by the pandemic, our sailors scored notable individual successes and collective achievements. He expressed gratitude to our dedicated race management volunteers.

Commodore Ward explained that “the clubhouse has not lain dormant – the carpark remedial work is almost complete; refurbishments to the Carabella Room and Careening Cove are underway. The Conceptual Master Plan is progressing to the design phase to develop our assets, the better to meet Members’ future requirements. Concluding, Commodore Ward thanked his fellow Flag Officers for their untiring support and dedication, and paid tribute to the Members who have loyally supported our Club through this difficult period”.

The Hon. Treasurer Ross Littlewood presented his financial report. He drew attention to recent progress towards environmental care and sustainability; foreshadowed new initiatives to appeal to families and youth at our Club; and promised to harness technology to improve clubhouse services and administration.

Well known Boating identity Christian Brook was elected as the new Commodore.  Other RSYS Flag Officers nominees were elected unopposed, Vice Commodore Russell Taylor, Rear Commodore Karyn Gojnich, Captain Michael Lindsay.

Nominations to the General Committee were elected unopposed. They were David Albert Robert Dickson, Amanda Hicks, John Taylor

With the meeting proceeding, Commodore Brook then announced the award of Life membership to the Squadron to Robert Albert OA RFD RD. Fellow Members John Diacopoulos and David Albert paid tribute to Mr Albert’s many achievements in sailing; service and devotion to the Squadron; as well as his cultural and philanthropic accomplishments. The proposal was enthusiastically endorsed from the floor by Gordon Ingate.

Rounding off the evening, Commodore Brook announced that two Members have received awards from Australian Sailing NSW: Will Ryan for winning Gold in the Men’s 470 class at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics and Rear Commodore Karyn Gojnich – the SheSails Award for the advancement of women in sailing.

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Inside the Royal Yacht Squadron – we get a rare view of this most exclusive club

• Belinda Bird
• May 18, 2015

Sarah Norbury jumps at a rare chance to see inside the Royal Yacht Squadron, that unique and intriguing yacht club at the centre of Cowes, in its 200th anniversary year

Photo: Paul Wyeth

The Royal Yacht Squadron’s Castle clubhouse is best known to most sailors as the centre of the action at Cowes Week. Puffs of smoke in the aftermath of the bangs waft across the water towards the fleets of yachts, their crews’ faces pinched with concentration as they plan their beat up the rocky Island shore.

No first-timer to Cowes Week can fail to be awestruck by the Castle. Competitors mill around before their starts, staring at the flags and course-boards, getting a sight down the startline straight into the windows.

Looking is as near as most sailors ever get to this most aristocratic of clubs. Members will repair to the Squadron after racing, taking tea on the lawn, before entering the Castle for cocktails before a party or the fabulous Squadron Ball, but for the rest, the Castle itself, built by Henry VIII to repel the French, is a visual symbol of the club’s exclusivity.

The Platform, from where Cowes Week starts are signalled. Photo: YPS/Boat Exclusive

The most prestigious club in Britain, possibly the world, is wreathed in mystique. The only way to join this club of Kings, Lords, Hons and Sirs is to be invited by a member and be subject to a secret ballot. The fact that the membership list reads like Debretts is an indication of most sailors’ chances of being invited.

It’s said that wealthy tea merchant Sir Thomas Lipton was blackballed for being ‘in trade’, which is why his 1898 bid for the America’s Cup was sponsored by the Royal Ulster YC. He was allowed in eventually, but died just two years later so scarcely had time to enjoy the Castle’s delights.

Some accept a blackballing with grace, others kick up a stink, like the owner of a 150-ton schooner who, the story goes, sent a message to the club that he was anchored within close range and would commence shelling unless he received a personal apology from Percy Shelley, son of the famous poet, who had blackballed him.

Flying the white ensign

The appeal of being a member is obvious. Who wouldn’t want to fly the white ensign from their stern? The Squadron is the only yacht club with a Royal Navy warrant to do so, granted in 1829. And who wouldn’t want to walk boldly in to meet and drink with the great and the good?

I asked the current commodore, the Hon Christopher Sharples why, when a number of royal clubs are struggling to find new members, the Squadron has a healthy waiting list. “It’s a very fine club,” he responded. “People enjoy the standards and the tremendous history. Members treat the Castle as a much-loved country home.”

RYS commodore, the Hon Christopher Sharples

Originally named The Yacht Club, it was founded on 1 June 1815 by a group of 42 gentleman yachting enthusiasts. Five years later, member King George IV conferred the Royal in the club’s title and in 1833 King William IV renamed the club the Royal Yacht Squadron. Members met in the Thatched House Tavern in St James’s, London, and in Cowes twice a year for dinner.

Today there are 535 members and dinner is served in the magnificent Members’ Dining Room, under the painted gaze of illustrious past admirals and commodores. The room is adorned with silver trophies and scenes of the high seas, and waiters bring course after course from the kitchens and wine cellars below. There are bedrooms for overnight stays, a room for members to keep their ‘mess kit’ or black tie, which is required dress on Saturday nights, and even gun lockers for shooting parties.

But sailing is the club’s raision d’être and neither a title nor a fortune are a guarantee of entry. The club professes that “any gentleman or lady actively interested in yachting” is eligible for nomination.

The Library, a peaceful sanctuary as well as an important archive. Photo: YPS/Boat Exclusive

The Squadron was where yacht racing was born. In the early 1800s the aristocracy came to Cowes to socialise and cruise in their boats. The first races were duels between the yachts of the day, then rules for fleet racing were drawn up. The first club regatta, later to become Cowes Week, was in 1826. For more than a century the reigning monarch would be there to present the King’s or Queen’s trophy.

Some of history’s greatest yachtsmen are on the Squadron’s membership roll: Sir Thomas Sopwith, John Illingworth, Sir Francis Chichester, Sir Alec Rose, Sir Robin Knox-Johnston. Ties with the Navy are strong and some of British maritime history’s most famous names have been Squadron members, not least Nelson’s vice-admiral Sir Thomas Masterman Hardy who commanded HMS Victory at the Battle of Trafalgar, Admiral Lord Cochrane who was the inspriation for C.S. Forester’s Hornblower novels and Admiral Sir Jeremy Black, captain of the aircraft carrier HMS Invincible during the Falklands War.

The public’s more usual view

Perhaps the club is still best known around the world for hosting the race around the Isle of Wight in 1851 won by the schooner America , which took home what became known as the America’s Cup. The Squadron donated the Cup itself in 1851 and mounted a number of challenges to win it back.

More than 160 years later the America’s Cup has still never been won by a British challenger, but now the commodore believes the Royal Yacht Squadron has “the best chance we have ever had” with its sponsorship of Ben Ainslie Racing as official British challenger for the 2017 Cup.

• 1. Flying the white ensign
• 2. Bicentenary celebrations
• 3. Inside the Castle

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Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron’s Josh Hyde, Cody Couglan, Mason Mulcahy, Nick Drummond and Zach Fong have been crowned the winners of the 2024 Hardy Cup.

Cruising Yacht Club of Australia’s Chelsea Williams, Cole Tapper, Hamish Vass, Craig Wright, Maddie McLeay and Mark Murray were runners up, with Royal Prince Alfred’s Yacht Club’s Daniel Kemp, Charlie Verity, Isabella Holdsworth, Lachlan Wallace, Louis Tilly secured third.

The final day of racing kicked off with strong southerly conditions and competitors preparing for the semi-final series. After winning the double round-robin Josh Hyde requested Daniel Kemp, and Chelsea Williams was paired with Xavier McLachlan.

The semi-finals were raced in front of the iconic backdrop of the Sydney Harbour Bridge and Opera House with spectators watching on-water and from the RSYS Club House. As the breeze settled in Hyde and Williams demonstrated their prowess, both winning their series 3 – 0 and securing places in the finals.

After a brief delay, the finals began with Hyde and Williams lining up for a dramatic three race series. The first two races saw tight racing with Hyde getting an early lead securing 2 of the required 3 points to win the regatta.

In the third race, Williams staged a final comeback gybing early on the first downwind and trying to roll over the top of Hyde. A misjudged gybe for the gate marks saw Williams penalized and allowed Hyde to gain a healthy lead for the remainder of the race.

Hyde’s team celebrated their win as they crossed the line with all five team members jumping into the Harbour.

“We had a great week of racing. I couldn’t ask much more of my team,” Hyde said, when he returned to the dock. “Chelsea put up a great fight and it was awesome to be racing against her after the Youth Worlds last year.”

The ten teams continued the celebrations at the Closing Presentation held in the RSYS Clubhouse. Lady Joan Hardy and RSYS Commodore Christian Brook spoke at the function reflecting on the success of this year’s event in supporting the development of youth match racing.

The prestigious Hardy Cup will return in early 2025.

• Hardy Cup Sydney
• Hardy Cup Sydney International Match Racing Regatta
• Royal Sydney Yacht Squadron

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The Royal Sydney Yacht Squadron (RSYS) Annual Cruise is a highlight of the year for many Members, families and friends – some of whom have been attending this event for decades!

Over the course of one week during the Easter school holidays, up to 50 Member vessels (motor and sailing yachts) set sail for Broken Bay, Cowan Creek, Coal & Candle Creek and Pittwater in Sydney’s north. The itinerary includes a themed beach party on Halletts Beach, a progressive dinner, drinks and canapés on Waterfall Beach (Refuge Bay) and an informal dinner at the yacht club.

For racing enthusiasts, there is also a program of up to seven friendly non-spinnaker races comprising five inshore races and two passage races from Sydney to Pittwater and return, and one lay day.

To say the least, the Annual Cruise is a very special event in the RSYS community.

Captain’s Report by Paul Thackray

The morning of Saturday 15 April was at its sparkling best as cruisers motored to the start at Watson’s Bay in Sydney Harbour, t-shirts and sunscreen on-hand for the run to Pittwater. The crew of Phoebe started the day with a round of ‘Rustards’ at Bradleys Head to get the crew into the correct frame of mind and settle the pre-race nerves.

Thirteen boats entered the offshore race, with new entries Shearwater and South Brittany participating for the first time. Into the Mystic was a mysterious omission from the entry list this year, which was explained when Arthur Psaltis was spotted onboard South Brittany disguised as a Bretton fisherman!

The breeze was a light northerly that was predicted to build and go right all day. However, conscious of the overarching requirement to get everybody to the Pirate Party at Hallets Beach on time, fearless Race Officer Rob Ridley sensibly flew code flag ‘L’ and led the group to a start line just off Manly Beach.

The breeze was as predicted, starting in 8 kts of breeze for a beautiful day’s sailing. Some boats went into the coast while others headed offshore in a building breeze which reached up to 12-13kts. There were also several non-racing boats making their way north, so it was a great sight on what everybody agreed later was a ‘cracker of a day.’

Hallets beach was dressed up like a Caribbean beach for the main event of the day, which saw a swarm of pirates descend on Hallets from mid-afternoon for a feast of sausages and drinks to kick-off the week’s festivities. Thanks to everybody for dressing up in the theme of the event and the volunteers for the decorating and cooking. Alan Cox won the bottle of rum and everybody else got to take home the chocolates.

First Time Cruiser’s Morning Tea

After an entertaining and enjoyable pirate party on Hallets Beach, and lots of onboard partying afterwards judging from the merrymaking in Refuge Bay, 20 first-time cruisers rowed over to Sweet Chariot IV on Sunday morning and had a most convivial time.

As with most yachties, there was not a pause in the ensuing conversations as people found or renewed friendships, with sailing and boats being the common ground, of course. And of note, there is a great job being done by the Squadron to get women onto the water.

Cruisers welcomed eight boats to their first-time cruise: Crowded Haus, Whistling Kite, Xena, Burning Palms, Shearwater, South Brittany, Topaz Too and Flaunt.

And quoting Rick Blaine ( Casablanca ): ‘I think this is the beginning of a beautiful friendship.’

Annual Cruise Presentation Dinner

The Annual Cruise Presentation Dinner was held at RSYS on Friday, April 28. Congratulations to all prize winners.

Canape Cookoff People’s Choice 1 st Place, Allegro,  John and Jackie Taylor: Smoked Trout & Horseradish on Cucumber and Anchovies on cos leaves Runner up, Badu, Jane and Graham Coutts: Sydney Rock Oysters with Finger Lime and Ginger Mirin dressing

Judges’ Choice 1 st Place, Ohana,  Michelle McGrath & Karyn Gojnich: Figs with Goats Cheese wrapped in Proscuitto Runner up, Coco, Russell and Melissa Taylor: Smoked Salmon Pinwheels

Cruise Crossword 1 st Place, Vibe,  Sharron & Graeme Kennedy

Photographic Competition ‘Afloat’ Category Winner: Gaila Merrington, ‘Thursday’ ‘Other’ Category Winner: Jane Coutts, ‘ Mushroom Bay Under the Stars’

Nav est Competition Equal 1 st place offshore, Shearwater , Guido Belgiorno-Nettis Equal 1 st place offshore, Hell Razer , Ian MacDiarmid 1 st place inshore, Allegro, John Taylor

Division 1 New York Yacht Club Trophy & Alan Payne Memorial Trophy, Hell Razer , Ian MacDiarmid

Division 2 Windsong Trophy, Coco , Russell Taylor

Division 3 Bob Tinning Trophy, Cheb , Lyndall Patterson

Erica J Trophy During the 1960s, Erica J (an eight-metre class yacht owned and skippered by the late Allan C. Williams) raced in RSYS Division 1. Other yachts such as Saskia, Norske, Alyth and Theme are just a few of the competitive fleet that raced in this division and provided some of the best and fairest racing sailing on Sydney Harbour at that time.

The donor of this trophy, Jean C. Williams, sailed on board Erica J and was one of the few women in the RSYS at the time actively involved in sailing. Over the years, Erica J raced in Tasmania and again on Sydney Harbour until 2011, when she was sold.

This fine spirit of racing sailboats seen in the 1960s at the RSYS lives on. This trophy has been donated to celebrate that spirit of competition and to promote the same values today in competition as existed in the RSYS during the 1960s. Thus, the Erica J Trophy is awarded annually to a boat or individual that exhibits the spirit of wholehearted competition and participation.

This year, the Erica J Trophy was awarded to Stephen, David and Richard Grundy.

William Brian Northam Trophy After Brian experienced the New York Yacht Club Cruise in 1962, he wanted to encourage family involvement in ‘cruising in company’ offshore, racing each day and sharing the evening together. His dream was fulfilled when the Squadron included the Cruise in its annual sailing calendar.

Brian Northam CBE, was the first Cruise Captain and a member of the Squadron for 54 years. Jan Northam donated the trophy to the Squadron in 2010. It is a half model of the Half Ton class, mounted on a Huon Pine board. It represents Brian’s boat Humdinger , an affordable vessel, well suited for this event. It was a family boat for many happy years of competitive and recreational sailing. Made by Keith Lambert, the Huon Pine board measures 850cm x 540cm.

It is awarded to a skipper who emulates the ‘Spirit of the Cruise’.

This year the William Brian Northam Trophy was awarded to Sandy and Richard Lawson.

Thank you to all who made the 2023 Annual Cruise possible. We look forward to seeing you next year.

Royal Sydney Yacht Squadron

Property information.

The Royal Sydney Yacht Squadron is the perfect base for that inner-city Sydney stay. Explore nearby Luna Park, enjoy a morning dip in the picturesque North Sydney pool or take a five minute ferry ride to Circular Quay and the Opera House. Whether you are here on business or relaxing with family, the Squadron offers comfortable, convenient and unique accommodation in a truly amazing setting.

Property Features

• On Site Restaurant
• Bar / Lounge
• Coastal Walks, Fish, Kayaking, Sailing
• Conference Facilities
• On-site undercover parking

Accommodation Details

Top elamang standard.

Top Elamang Standard Enquire

Rate for Member's guests and Non-Members 1-6 Nights. Two bedroom apartment, master bedroom with a Queen bed and a twin bedded room. Separate lounge and dining areas with complete kitchen, bathroom and laundry facilities.

Top Elamang Standard Weekly

Top Elamang Standard Weekly Enquire

Weekly rate Member's guests and Mom-Members. Two bedroom apartment, master bedroom with a Queen bed and a twin bedded room. Separate lounge and dining areas with complete kitchen, bathroom and laundry facilities.

Bottom Elamang Standard

Bottom Elamang Standard Enquire

Rate for Member's guests and Non-Members 1-6 Nights. Two bedroom apartment, master bedroom with a Queen bed, and one double bedded room. Separate lounge and dining areas with complete kitchen, bathroom and laundry facilities.

Bottom Elamang Standard Weekly

Bottom Elamang Standard Weekly Enquire

Weekly rate for Members guests and Non-Members. Two bedroom apartment, master bedroom with a Queen bed, and one double bedded room. Separate lounge and dining areas with complete kitchen, bathroom and laundry facilities.

2/24 Peel Standard Weekly

2/24 Peel Standard Weekly Enquire

Member's guests and Non-Member weekly rate. Three bedroom apartment, master bedroom with Queen bed, one twin bedded room and a two bed bunk bedroom. Separate lounge and dining areas with kitchen, bathroom and laundry facilities.

3/24 Peel Standard

3/24 Peel Standard Enquire

Member's guest and Non-Member rate 1-6 days. Two bedroom apartment, master bedroom with a Queen bed and a twin bedded room. Separate lounge and dining areas with complete kitchen, bathroom and laundry facilities.

3/24 Standard weekly

3/24 Standard weekly Enquire

Member's guests and Non-Member weekly rate. Two bedroom apartment, master bedroom with a Queen bed and a twin bedded room. Separate lounge and dining areas with complete kitchen, bathroom and laundry facilities.

Harbourfront King (5/6/8) Standard Enquire

Rate for guests of Members and Non-Members. King twin bed (can be King bed or two singles) with harbour views and deck access

Terms & Conditions

Terms & Conditions Please read these terms and conditions carefully as these conditions incorporate the basis on which bookings for Royal Sydney Yacht Squadron are accepted. Failure to abide by these Terms and Conditions permits the Royal Sydney Yacht Squadron (the Club) to refuse the key, amend the rental or apply additional charges and/or terminate the occupancy. Accommodation

• The tenancy is for the period stated in the confirmation letter. • The accommodation is for the maximum person per bed per premises booked. Check-out

• Check out time is strictly 10am. As we employ contract cleaners there is no flexibility that allows for a later check out. A late check out fee will automatically be debited to the credit card of the guest for a late check out and the guest hereby authorises the Club to do so. • Keys must be returned to the Reception or charges will apply.

Car Parking

• One car space per property booking is provided in the Club carpark.

• Rooms are serviced mid-week based on an 8 night or more stay. Should you require additional services please contact reception and we will be happy to arrange this for you (charges will apply). • Please ensure that the property is left clean and tidy when vacating. All crockery and utensils must be washed and placed back in the cupboards. All furniture must be left in the same position as it was upon check in. Charges will be made for any additional cleaning or relocating of furniture in the property. • All rubbish and bottles must be placed in the rubbish bins provided prior to vacating. Any excess items left in the apartment will incur an additional charge.

Damages, Breakages and Losses

• All damages, breakages or losses to the property, furniture and furnishings are to be reported to the Club by the guest immediately. Should you discover a default or breakage or maintenance/safety issue when you arrive, please advise reception or we will consider those the responsibility of the current guest and charge accordingly. • When a guest registers or an invitee of a guest enters the premises, they are deemed to have agreed to be bound by these conditions. Guests and invitees are expected to behave in a manner, which is conducive to the safety, comfort and convenience of other guests within the property. • In the event that the property has been either damaged (whether such damage is willful or not) the Club without reference will enter a debit on the credit card of the guest and the guest hereby authorises the manager to do so. This is at the sole and absolute discretion of the Club Secretary. Functions • Functions of any sort are not permitted and penalties apply. Any type of function, party, wedding or get-together could incur a fee of $5,000. Keys

• Keys to your room are to be collected and returned to Reception. Loss, Damage or Theft of Guests property • The Club takes no responsibility for personal property. The Club shall not be liable to any guests or invitees for any loss, damage or destruction to the property or any personal property brought upon these premises by the said guest or invitee. Without limiting the foregoing, personal property shall include jewellery, money and other personal effects and motor vehicles parked on premises. Guests are strongly advice to seek their own travel insurance. Noise • Guests shall not create any noise to interfere with the peaceful enjoyment of other guests or any person lawfully using common property. • Guests of all rooms and units shall take all reasonable steps to ensure that their invitees do not behave in a manner likely to interfere with the peaceful enjoyment of other or in any way upset the neighbours. Pets • No pets are permitted on the premises. The guest will have their booking termination immediately with no refund of monies paid should they be found to breach this condition. Under 18′s • All clients under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a parent/guardian or an individual over the age of 18. • We have the right to refuse any booking, when the legal guardian over 18 cannot provide current photo ID if requested on check-in.

RSYS Accommodation Frequently Asked Questions:

How far in advance can accommodation bookings be made? Bookings can be made up to 12 months in advance.

Can you make a provisional booking? No, we do not accept provisional bookings; a $100.00 non refundable deposit is required at time of booking.

What is classified as a long term stay? Any stay over 30 consecutive days is classified as a long stay. Long term stays must be approved by the Secretary.

Is there a minimum stay for the apartment accommodation? Yes minimum stay for the Peel Street apartments is (7) days and two day (2) minimum for our Elamang Avenue apartments. A Standby Rate that allows for overnight stay is available seven days prior to the proposed booking in all apartments, subject to availability.

What happens if I cancel my booking? The deposit may be transferable to another date provided written notice is given 14 days in advance and approved by the Secretary.

Can I book a specific room? Whilst we endeavour to accommodate specific room requests, the right is reserved to move bookings within the tariff group.

Are guest allowed to park at the Squadron? One car space per guest room is included, subject to availability.

As a reciprocal member can I make a booking for a guest? No, reciprocal members are not permitted to make a booking for their guests. Each reciprocal member is entitled to book one room or one apartment at any one given time.

As a reciprocal member do I require a letter of introduction for each stay? Yes, a letter of introduction is required for each stay and booking can not be taken until we receive the letter from your club. This is generally forwarded to us from your club via email. We recommend you are Cc into the email so you know when we have received it.

General Booking Policy •            CCA breakfast open between 7:30 – 11:30am •             Check-out time 10:00 am. •             Extra guest $55.00 per night. •             Maximum 4 guests per room unless confirmed otherwise. •             A non-refundable deposit of $100 (or one nights room rate whichever the lesser) per room, per stay, is necessary at the time of booking (This deposit maybe transferable to another date provided written notice is given 14 days in advance and approved by the Secretary). • Any bookings over 21 days are subject to approval of Secretary. • Bookings can only be made 1 year in advance of arrival date. • One car park space per room subject to availability. • Whilst we endeavour to accommodate specific room requests, the right is reserved to move bookings within the tariff group.

Long Term Stay • Definition of Long Term – Any stay over 30 consecutive days. • Eligibility • Long term stays are available to Squadron Members – A Squadron Member must be in residence. • The members account must be currently up to date. • The stay must be approved by the Secretary. Terms • A deposit of 1 week rent is needed to confirm the booking. This is payable at the time of the booking. • The deposit is forfeit if the booking is cancelled within 21 days of the arrival date. • Bookings changed or moved within 14 days of the arrival date 50% of any lost rent suffered by RSYS will be payable. • The rent must be paid no less than 1 week in advance at all times.

Payment Policy

Credit Cards

• The Credit Card used for payment of accommodation must be in the name of the person who signs the registration card upon arrival. • On arrival and prior to check in we require a signed manual imprint of the credit card. DEBIT CARDS NOT ACCEPTED. There will be no refund should you not have a credit card available for this imprint. • Where a credit card is not available a $500.00 cash deposit will be required. • In the event of any accounts (e.g. telephone accounts, hiring charges, cleaning charges, breakages, damage to the property etc) being unpaid and becoming payable, you authorise us to charge those accounts to you utilizing the signed credit card imprint. All charges are subject to our discretion. This authority is valid for sixty (60) days after the last day of your stay.

Cancellation Policy

The non-refundable deposit of $100 (or one nights room rate whichever the lesser) paid at the time of booking will be forfeit if notice in writing is not received and acknowledged by the Club, 14 days prior to the booking start date.

Make an enquiry

Thank you for your enquiry for the above dates. We will be in touch with you as soon as possible to discuss options. THIS IS AN ENQUIRY ONLY. NOT A BOOKING.

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Yacht Dreaming

Yacht Clubs in Sydney: A Comprehensive Guide

The History of Yacht Clubs in Sydney

Yachting has a rich history in Sydney, Australia, dating back to the early 1800s when ship captains would race their boats for sport. The first organized yacht race was held in 1858, and the Royal Sydney Yacht Squadron was established in 1862. Today, Sydney is home to many prestigious yacht clubs, each with its unique history and culture.

The Royal Sydney Yacht Squadron

The Royal Sydney Yacht Squadron is one of the oldest and most prestigious yacht clubs in Australia. Established in 1862, the club has a long history of hosting international regattas and events. The club’s stunning clubhouse is situated on the shores of Sydney Harbour, providing members with stunning views of the city skyline.

The Cruising Yacht Club of Australia

The Cruising Yacht Club of Australia was established in 1944 and is located in Rushcutters Bay, Sydney. The club is best known for hosting the Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race, one of the world’s most challenging offshore race s. Members of the club are active in cruising, racing, and social events, making it a popular choice for yachting enthusiasts.

The Benefits of Joining a Yacht Club

Yacht clubs offer many benefits to members, both on and off the water. Here are just a few of the advantages of joining a yacht club in Sydney:

Access to Facilities and Equipment

Most yacht clubs provide members with access to a range of facilities and equipment, including boat storage, maintenance services, and training. This can be particularly beneficial for new yachting enthusiasts who may not have access to their equipment or expertise.

Networking Opportunities

Yacht clubs provide an excellent opportunity to network with other like-minded individuals who share a passion for yachting. Members of yacht clubs often form close bonds and friendships, both on and off the water.

Social Events

Yacht clubs are not just about racing and sailing. They also provide members with access to a range of social events, from formal dinners to casual barbecues. These events are a great way to meet new people and expand your social circle.

Choosing the Right Yacht Club in Sydney

With so many yacht clubs to choose from in Sydney, it can be challenging to decide which one is right for you. Here are some factors to consider when selecting a yacht club:

The location of the yacht club is an essential factor to consider, particularly if you plan to sail regularly. Look for a club that is close to your home or workplace and has easy access to the water.

The facilities offered by the yacht club should also be a consideration. Look for a club that provides members with access to boat storage, maintenance services, and training.

Every yacht club has its unique culture and atmosphere. Some clubs are more focused on racing, while others are more social. Consider what type of club culture will suit you best.

Yacht Club Membership Fees

Membership fees for yacht clubs in Sydney can vary significantly, depending on the club’s facilities and services. Some clubs offer different levels of membership, with varying fees and benefits. It is essential to review a club’s fee structure carefully before joining to ensure that it is within your budget.

Joining a yacht club in Sydney can be an excellent way to connect with like-minded individuals and explore your passion for yachting. With so many clubs to choose from, it’s important to consider the location, facilities, and culture of each club before making a decision. Whether you are a seasoned sailor or new to the world of yachting, there is sure to be a yacht club in Sydney that is perfect for you.

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Happy Go takes the Double – Winning Line Honours and IRC Overall in the 2024 Rolex China Sea Race

HONG KONG , March 31, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — For the first time in 14 years, the Line Honours winner of the Rolex China Sea Race has ‘done the double’ and picked up the IRC Overall as well! 

After a well fought ‘chase and overtake’ competition from the start till the finish, Happy Go finished the Race on 30 March at 05hr20m53s, a mere five minutes ahead of their rival all along the way down to Subic Bay, Standard Insurance Centennial V .

On her corrected time, of 2days 18hours 0mins 53 seconds, none of other IRC boats competing can beat her time in this 565 nautical mile race.

Nie Hua and crew lifted both the China Sea Trophy and Sunday Telegraph Trophy at the prizegiving ceremony held at the Subic Bay Yacht Club.  Nie Hua was also presented with two Rolex timepieces.  The last time a boat achieved the double win was in 2010 when Neil Pryde competed with his boat HiFi .

Nie Hua was ecstatic about taking both big prizes in their only their second entry into the Rolex China Sea Race, saying “We have made a lot of preparations ahead of the Race but getting Line Honours and the IRC Overall title is completely out of my expectations!  I would like to give a huge applause to the crew working on board.  I am absolutely thrilled and so thankful. We had a great team, although we had some language barriers, we operated well, so a big thank you to the team!”

Skipper Jono Rankine added his praises for the crew “Very proud of how the team came together, it’s a relatively new team and everyone did a fantastic job and there were no egos on the boat and everyone was helping each other and doing a really good job.  It was really satisfying to see.”

Chinese Entry William Liu’s Seawolf claimed 2nd IRC Overall. Happy Go , Seawolf and Standard Insurance Centennial V also came 1st, 2nd and 3rd respectively in IRC Racer 0.

The bulk of the fleet is still racing so there are more division winners to be calculated over the course of the coming days.

2024 marks the 62nd anniversary of this world-renowned blue water classic.  This flagship event is organised by the cosmopolitan Royal Hong Kong Yacht Club, one of the oldest and most prestigious clubs in Hong Kong.  Rolex has been a partner of the Club since 2007 and Title Sponsor of its flagship Race since 2008.Telegraph Trophy. A Rolex timepiece will be awarded to the first boat under IRC Overall handicap and first Monohull Line Honours.

For more information about Rolex China Sea Race 2024, please visit  www.rolexchinasearace.com .

High resolution photos can be downloaded from the below link: https://rhkycorghk-my.sharepoint.com/:f:/g/personal/vivian_ngan_rhkyc_org_hk/EgIsFiFxeJNHgWSpBSBftVQBzMpo_wCQE64jRyNpH60UzQ?e=Ng7bRa

Photos credit: ROLEX / Andrea Francolini

ABOUT ROYAL HONG KONG YACHT CLUB (RHKYC)

The Royal Hong Kong Yacht Club is one of the oldest and largest sports clubs in Hong Kong , with a rich, colourful history that spans 170 years of community and competitive sailing and rowing. The RHKYC provides training programmes for practitioners of all abilities and ages – both members and non-members – to nurture their development, produce elite athletes capable of competing at the highest levels, and contribute to the growth and popularity of these great pastimes. The Club also organises a full calendar of high-profile local and international race events, helping place Hong Kong firmly on the global sporting map.

ROLEX AND YACHTING

Rolex has always associated with activities driven by passion, excellence, precision and team spirit. The Swiss watchmaker naturally gravitated towards the elite world of yachting six decades ago and the brand’s enduring partnership now encompasses the most prestigious clubs, races and regattas, as well as towering figures in the sport, including ground-breaking round-the-world yachtsman Sir Francis Chichester and the most successful Olympic sailor of all time, Sir Ben Ainslie . Today, Rolex is Title Sponsor of 15 major international events – from leading offshore races such as the annual Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race and the biennial Rolex Fastnet Race, to grand prix competition at the Rolex TP52 World Championship and spectacular gatherings at the Maxi Yacht Rolex Cup and the Rolex Swan Cup. It also supports the exciting SailGP global championship in which national teams race identical supercharged F50 catamarans on some of the world’s most famous harbours. Rolex’s partnerships with the Cruising Yacht Club of Australia , Royal Ocean Racing Club, Yacht Club Costa Smeralda, Yacht Club Italiano, New York Yacht Club and Royal Yacht Squadron, among others, are the foundation of its enduring relationship with this dynamic sport.

ABOUT ROLEX 

AN UNRIVALLED REPUTATION FOR QUALITY AND EXPERTISE

Rolex is an integrated and independent Swiss watch manufacture. Headquartered in Geneva , the brand is recognized the world over for its expertise and the quality of its products – symbols of excellence, elegance and prestige. The movements of its Oyster Perpetual and Cellini watches are certified by COSC, then tested in-house for their precision, performance and reliability. The Superlative Chronometer certification, symbolized by the green seal, confirms that each watch has successfully undergone tests conducted by Rolex in its own laboratories according to its own criteria. These are periodically validated by an independent external organization. The word “Perpetual” is inscribed on every Rolex Oyster watch. But more than just a word on a dial, it is a philosophy that embodies the company’s vision and values. Hans Wilsdorf , the founder of the company, instilled a notion of perpetual excellence that would drive the company forward. This led Rolex to pioneer the development of the wristwatch and numerous major watchmaking innovations, such as the Oyster, the first waterproof wristwatch, launched in 1926, and the Perpetual rotor self-winding mechanism, invented in 1931. In the course of its history, Rolex has registered over 500 patents. At its four sites in Switzerland , the brand designs, develops and produces the majority of its watch components, from the casting of the gold alloys to the machining, crafting, assembly and finishing of the movement, case, dial and bracelet. Furthermore, the brand is actively involved in supporting the arts and culture, sport and exploration, as well as those who are devising solutions to preserve the planet.