new york yacht club tour

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Yacht Clubs

New York Yacht Club

The mission of the New York Yacht Club is to attract and bring together a dedicated group of yachting and naval members to share and foster their interest in yachting and yacht racing; to sustain a leadership role in yachting, its history, its development, the preservation of its traditions, and the furtherance of good seamanship; to promote the highest form of Corinthian sportsmanship in national and international yachting forums and yacht racing competitions.

Stories from New York Yacht Club

On July 30, 1844, John Cox Stevens (1785-1857) and eight of his friends met aboard Stevens’ yacht Gimcrack, anchored off the Battery in New York Harbor. That afternoon, they established the New York Yacht Club (NYYC) and made three critical decisions that day: first, they elected Stevens as Commodore of the Club; second, they agreed to develop rules and regulations to govern the Club; and, third, they resolved to cruise to Newport, Rhode Island, initiating the enduring connection between the Club and New England. The Club’s young fleet of eight schooner yachts set sail from New York Harbor for Newport three days later, marking the Club’s first Annual Cruise. During the passage, they made stops at various ports on Long Island Sound and even held informal speed trials. Upon reaching Newport, the members met up with yachtsmen from Boston to socialize and engage in racing activities. On August 8, the Club hosted a fleet race around Conanicut Island, a popular racecourse today. The year that followed was a busy one for the Club. It adopted its Rules and Regulations, opened its first clubhouse and held its first Annual Regatta.

The New York Yacht Club held its first Annual Regatta–a fleet race for a prize cup–on July 17, 1845. Nine yachts started opposite the new clubhouse at 9 a.m. on the Hudson River. They sailed to a turning mark near Sandy Hook in the Lower Bay and returned—a 38-mile course. The yacht Cygnet won, earning fame as the first winner of North America’s longest-running sailing regatta. Today, the New York Yacht Club has its signature clubhouse, a National Historic Landmark, on West 44th Street in New York, and a waterfront clubhouse, Harbour Court, in Newport. The Club’s first clubhouse survives. It was installed on the grounds of Harbour Court in 1999, where it serves as a reminder of the Club’s origins.

The Club continues to run its Annual Regatta, presented by Rolex. The Club also hosts the biennial Rolex New York Yacht Club Invitational Cup, for international Corinthian sailors representing their yacht clubs and nations and the parallel event for U.S. yacht clubs, the Resolute Cup. The Club also hosts and participates in other national, North American and world championships.

rom 1884 to 1900, the clubhouse was a townhouse at 67 Madison Avenue. By 1898, it was chockablock with “models, members, and memorabilia,” according to the New York Daily Tribune. It was then that Commodore J. Pierpont Morgan stunned fellow members by announcing he would donate three lots on West 44th Street to build a new clubhouse. The building, brilliantly designed with nautical motifs by Whitney Warren, opened in 1901. It is famous for its Model Room and Library. The New York Times wrote of the clubhouse in 1906, “Except for the absence of motion, one might fancy oneself at sea.”

In 1987, the New York Yacht Club acquired Harbour Court, the former summer home of Commodore John Nicholas Brown, in Newport, creating a new energy and focus. The waterfront clubhouse opened in 1988 with 1,500 members and guests in attendance. In 2019, Harbour Court hosted the Club’s Dosquicentennial Celebration for members and friends to celebrate the Club’s 175 years of history.

The New York Yacht Club has hosted Race Week at Newport presented by Rolex since 1998 and many other regattas in recent years including world championships for the Etchells, J/70, Farr 40 and Melges 20 classes, the J Class Worlds, the Global Team Race Regatta, the Transatlantic Race, and the IC37 National Championships to name a few.

The Club is also highly active in team and match racing. In 2006, the Club purchased 14 Sonars in dedication of these activities. In 2014, the fleet was increased to 22 Sonars, and today, team racing at the New York Yacht Club offers some of the most intense competition in the country.

Since 2009 the New York Yacht Club has conducted the biennial Rolex New York Yacht Club Invitational Cup. After a successful decade of racing in the Swan 42, the eighth one-design class created by the New York Yacht Club since 1900, the Invitational Cup transitioned to using the Club’s fleet of 20 IC37 race boats in 2019. These purpose-built machines, combined with one-design sails from North Sails, identical gear and standardized rig tune, create a level platform for amateur big-boat racing. Yacht club teams worldwide and Corinthian (amateur) sailors flock to Newport to race in this competition. During the first Invitational Cup in 2009, 19 yacht club teams from 14 countries and four continents competed, and the New York Yacht Club emerged as the winner. Since 2009, more than 1,000 sailors, comprised of teams from more than 40 yacht clubs representing 21 countries and all six continents, have competed in at least one edition of the Rolex New York Yacht Club Invitational Cup.

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The Sailing Museum & National Sailing Hall of Fame

365 Thames St. Newport RI 02840 401.324.5761

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Yacht Manhattan

Aiany new york around manhattan architecture boat tour.

During this architecture boat tour of NYC, you will explore new and enduring architecture, engineering marvels, and the revitalized waterfront from the teak decks of Classic Harbor Line’s elegant motor yachts. This fully narrated NYC architecture boat tour is in collaboration with the AIANY (American Institute of Architects New York). The story of NYC’s development is described as a broad overview for visitors but includes deeper insights to satisfy demanding locals. During this New York architecture tour you’ll catch new and alluring sites including Little Island at Pier 55, the Hudson Yards “mega-project”, the continuing ascent of “supertall” luxury residential towers, and join a discussion of how cities might adapt in the post-Covid era.

Continuing education credits available »

Our AIANY Architecture Boat Tour makes a great gift! Purchase a CHL gift card at the link below

BUY GIFT CERTIFICATE

Statue & Skyline Sightseeing Cruise

Sunset cruise on yacht manhattan, cocoa and carols holiday cruise, around manhattan brunch cruise, evening jazz cruise aboard yacht manhattan, city lights cruise on yacht manhattan, statue & skyline holiday cocoa cruise, sunset & holiday cocoa cruise, fall foliage brunch cruise, classic cocktails aboard yacht manhattan, holiday jazz, champagne, wine & cheese pairing cruise, afternoon nyc fall foliage lunch cruise aboard manhattan ii, urban naturalist tour: fall foliage of the grand palisades, urban naturalist tour: abandoned islands of the east river at sunset, aiany climate change and architecture tour, 4th of july fireworks cruise on manhattan ii, around manhattan holiday brunch cruise, holy cocoa and carols holiday cruise: traditional carols & hymns, new year’s eve fireworks champagne tasting cruise w hors d’oeuvres, bar, and live jazz band, new york city lights holiday cocoa, 4th of july macy’s fireworks cruise on manhattan, aiany industrial waterway tour into freshkills park, military history tour of new york harbor, valentine’s champagne cabaret cruise, around manhattan mother’s day brunch cruise, new year’s day brunch, manhattan or manhattan ii.

Join us aboard these classic style yachts (Manhattan or Manhattan II) for a NYC sightseeing cruise! We have been rated in the top 3 best Architecture boat tours in the USA. So enjoy us aboard for a AIANY Around Manhattan Architecture Tour, or a boat ride out to the Statue of Liberty to snap some selfies and take in the NYC Skyline from the water. The sightseeing cruises on these boats will create memories to last a lifetime. Trying to figure out the most perfect NYC Date idea? Grab your loved one for a romantic sunset cruise or a city lights cruise out in NY Harbor. Manhattan and Manhattan II are inspired by the famous (and infamous) commuter yachts of the Roaring Twenties! These boats were commonplace in NY Harbor — owned by the ultra rich on the shores of Long Island Sound — Oil Barons and Wall Street tycoons outfitted long narrow boats with the ever-so-popular combustion engine. Designed for speed and elegance, the Manhattan and Manhattan II are outfitted with 1000 horse power John Deere Diesels, and will be traveling at safe comfortable “cruising speeds” while you enjoy a glass of award winning champagne, a bountiful Brunch, or perhaps an Architecture Tour.

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The 12 best boat tours in NYC in 2024

All aboard! Book these NYC boat tours for incredible views of the Statue of Liberty and other iconic landmarks

In all of planet Earth, there is no other skyline quite like that of New York City. Whether by air or by land , the Big Apple’s skyscrapers and landmarks are iconic. But there’s one way of touring NYC that beats out the rest, hands down—by boat.  Whether from the upper deck of a yacht or hunkered down on a speedboat, views from the harbor show NYC at its absolute finest. From the Statue of Liberty to the One World Trade Center, you can take in all the biggest sights without dealing with packed subway cars and endless traffic jams. Below are some of the Big Apple’s biggest and best boat tours.

Want more nautical things to do? These are NYC's best boat bars for sips and snacks . 

How do we determine the cream of the crop? Our staff picks combine the top, most recent reviews with some of our personal favorites to make sure you get the best deal on the web. Throughout this article, you may notice some affiliate links – these have no influence on our editorial content – we pinky swear. For more information, see our  affiliate guidelines .

Been there, done that? Think again, my friend.

Best NYC boat tours

1.  luxury brunch, lunch or dinner harbor cruise.

So this is how to really do an NYC boat tour. Choose which fine dining food option you fancy and then settle into a blissful tour around New York Harbor, with a live pianist your exceptional aural entertainment. And sure, the luxury dining and the music might be pretty good but you wait until you gaze out across the Empire State Building, Brooklyn Bridge, Statue of Liberty and One World Trade Center from your private table with 360-degree panoramic views. 

Don't miss: The sultry sounds of the onboard jazz pianist who's on a mission to get people dancing.  

2.  Statue of Liberty Express Cruise

Perfect for the sightseer who knows exactly what he or she wants, this Circle Line express tour goes right to the Statue of Liberty – no pit stops this time. Listen to an expert guide point out some lower Manhattan landmarks before pausing for photos right next to Lady Liberty. And since this cruise only takes an hour, it’s easy to fit into even the busiest itinerary.

Don't miss: The perfect photo opp of the famous sculpture and other harbor landmarks. 

3.  NYC: Evening Jazz Cruise on the Yacht Manhattan

Here’s one for the schmoozy, romantic vacationers who are seeking a maximum NYC experience. This sunset sailing cruise with a live jazz band will have you gazing (and jiving) out as the sun drops below Manhattan. Sitting on a 1920s sailing boat, you’ll sail past NYC’s biggest landmarks (including the Statue of Liberty) while a live band plays a mix of beloved classics to contemporary R&B renditions. With an alcoholic drink in hand, live jazz in your ears, and the city lights sparkling in your eyes across the water, you’re in for a swingingly good time.

Don't miss:  Asking the band to play your favorite tune.

4.  Manhattan: Private Sailing Yacht Cruise

Don’t want to share your views of the city skyline? You don’t have to on this private tour of the Hudson River at sunset. It’s your party, so you can bring any food or drinks you like on board. You’ll feel like a high roller as you kick back on your private yacht for the evening.

Don't miss: Chill with your crew on any of the three lounge areas, including the outdoor deck and sun pad. 

5.  Circle Line: Best of NYC Cruise

How better to get your bearing in a city as enormous as NYC than by circumnavigation? The Circle Line’s two-and-a-half-hour tour does a full loop of Manhattan Island, taking passengers past plenty of the city’s most popular sights in the process. Spanning three rivers and all five boroughs, you’ll even pass within touching distance of Lady Liberty herself. In other words, get your camera ready!

Don't miss: Non-English speakers can download the Circle Line app for a translated commentary. 

6.  New York City: Alive After Five Cocktail Cruise

Get a taste of the Big Apple’s nightlife scene with this happy hour boat tour on the Hudson River. The Alive After Five cocktail cruise has everything you need: a fully stocked bar, a dance floor, and a killer DJ. Did someone say tequila? 

Don't miss:  Views of the Manhattan skyline as the sun goes down and the lights turn on. 

7.  New York Water Taxi Cruises

You can't miss the water taxis, they look just like the car versions: big, bright and yellow. These little beauties cruise round New York Harbor daily, passing major sites like the Chrysler and Empire State Buildings, Brooklyn Bridge and the Statue of Liberty. You can stay on and complete the entire loop in 70 minutes, or hop on and off as you please, exploring the greats eats, shops and attractions in NYC's waterside neighborhoods.

Don't miss: They have a team that can help you create a custom route for your journey. 

8.  AIANY: Manhattan Architecture Tour Cruise

The area south of 59th Street is packed with architecturally significant buildings: the Chrysler Building, the Woolworth Building, the Empire State Building and One World Trade Center just to name a few. This 90-minute boat tour on a 1920s yacht is led by a member of the New York chapter of the American Institute of Architects, meaning architecturally speaking, you’re in good hands. With their guidance, you’ll cover all of Manhattan’s most significant structures, plus the Brooklyn Bridge, Ellis Island, and the Statue of Liberty.

Don't miss: Sip complimentary beer, wine or Champagne from the bar while you learn about infrastructure, parks and architecture.

9.  Staten Island Ferry

Put your purse away, because the Staten Island Ferry is totally free. That's right, in one of the most expensive cities in the world, you can find a free ride. This old chugger has been going since before any bridges were built, transporting folks from the 'burbs to Manhattan in 25 minutes. Boats leave South Ferry at Battery Park and run 24 hours a day.

Don't miss: The stunning panoramas of lower Manhattan and the Statue of Liberty.

10.  New York City: Sunset Sail Aboard a Schooner

Fresh air, ocean waves, a free drink and front row (floating) seats to one of the most famous sunsets in the world. It’s fair to say that this leisurely cruise on the Schooner America 2.0 really does have it all. Sit back and relax as the crew guides this 1800s style sailboat out into the harbor while deep gold light wraps up the city. You’ll glide peacefully past landmarks like the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island as the sun dips behind the Manhattan skyline. What better way to say “goodbye” to a perfect NYC day?

Don't miss : Your complimentary drink that you get to sip on board.

11.  Circle Line: Beast Speedboat Ride

Adrenaline junkies will want to book tickets for this supercharged half-hour ride through New York Harbor. The 70-foot speedboat known as the  Beast  zooms toward the Statue of Liberty at 45 miles per hour, kicking up plenty of waves. In fact, the ride can get so intense that guides recommend wearing wetsuits.

Don't miss : The ride is accompanied by a thumping soundtrack to really kick things into high gear.

12.  NYC: Statue of Liberty Day Sail with Onboard Bar

This historic experience will have you feeling like you've just stepped into the heart of  The Great Gatsby— or really any other seafaring period drama. Sail Manhattan has two vessels for this experience—the 1920s restored Shearwater sailing boat, and The Clipper, a majestic tall ship with billowing sails. You’ll sail down the Hudson River on one of these spectacular ships, with the aim of the 1.5-hour sail to give you an awe-inspiring (and crowd-free) view of NYC’s biggest landmark hits. 

Don't miss : The open bar that's slinging drinks all hour long.

Keen to beat the summer heat?

Where to go in nyc when you don’t have air-conditioning.

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When it’s as hot as it is humid in New York City, that leaky window unit just isn’t going to cut it

Want to rent your own boat?

The best boat rentals in nyc.

Debating between a two-hour hire or a full-day trip along the Hudson? Choose a boat to start your adventures around NYC

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Dream Boat NY

Private yacht charters nyc.

Complete Captain & Crew Service for Parties with 2-6 Guests

With a private cruise of NYC, slip closer to the iconic landmarks and vibrant neighborhoods that define the city. Enjoy the perfect moment on the water with champagne and catering served by top-tier crew. Your private boat ride of NYC is more than just a rental. Let it be an experience you’ll remember for a lifetime.

Yacht Charters

starting at $600 Elevate sightseeing and entertaining with a private yacht charter in NYC complete with luxury amenities including an elegant deck lounge and cabin lounge, open floor plan, spacious seating, champagne & catering service, and professional captain & crew.

Sunset Cruise

starting at $660 Catch the Golden Hour on the water and discover magical colors and lights not seen on land.

Romantic Boat Ride

starting at $600 Just for 2 – private and romantic boat ride NYC. Perfect for anniversaries, date nights, proposals, and personal celebrations.

Brunch Cruise

starting at $600 + $49pp Elevate brunch with private yacht cruises. Sip champagne, savor decadent bites, and glide through the waters on this top-notch brunch cruise NYC.

Lunch Cruise

starting at $600 + $44pp Luxury day sailing with an all-inclusive champagne lunch. Savor every moment on our premier lunch cruise. Experience the ultimate afternoon is on a private boat charter in NYC.

Champagne & Appetizer Cruise

starting at $600 +$45pp For a stylish and glamorous night cruise, hop on a private yacht rental for an all-inclusive evening with champagne, open bar & appetizers. Reserve the best dinner Cruise NYC.

NY Boat Charters

Luxury yacht rentals with exceptional service.

For many travelers, the highlight of their visit to the city is their exclusive experience with Dream Boat NY, where yachting truly is a dream. Select a boat rental in New York that allows you to step off the sidewalk and immediately lounge on deck cushions. Float across the water while enjoying all the premium champagne and catering services . This unique combination of entertaining and sightseeing creates the perfect moment for friends and family. Celebrate all the big and small moments in life — birthdays , graduations, reunions, professional and personal achievements, team-building, corporate rewards and recognition, and private parties . Escape with your beloved for a romantic date night , anniversary , marriage proposal , bachelor or bachelorette party, and wedding party. Catch seasonal events on the water including the July 4th Fireworks celebration, and the stunning colors of the Northeast’s fall foliage .

Smaller is a Bigger Experience Small Yacht Rental in the Big City

Imagine having an intimate space to call your own with unparalleled access to the city’s stunning sights, all while receiving personalized attention from expert crew as they guide you through the city’s waterways, taking you places that larger vessels simply cannot go. Experience a private boat ride with unique opportunities to slip closer to the iconic landmarks and vibrant neighborhoods that define the city. So come, explore the city from a new perspective, and elevate your experience with the ultimate in seclusion and luxury.

Five-Star Resort on the Water NYC Yacht Rental

Experience a floating, magical adventure more similar to traveling via Harry Potter’s platform 9¾ than Muggle gridlock and TSA lines. Step through the boat marina’s silver gate and enter a private yacht rental NYC experience. Your captain greets you personally, and attentive crew whisks away bags and baggage, replacing the day’s burdens with light food and drinks. Out on the water, VIP service is seamless and stress-free. Welcome to a five-star Manhattan yacht charter where the journey is just as important as the destination.

Savor the Flavors Catered Yacht Charter New York

A leisure tour on the Hudson River will awaken all the senses. Start your day with a classic brunch featuring fresh bagels and lox. Celebrate the day with lunch by the Statue of Liberty. Then take an evening cruise of NYC accompanied with a Charcuterie Board or refreshing Shrimp Cocktail. For the sweet tooth, select your favorite cake or tart. And what better way to toast a life well lived than with a bottle of champagne, crisp white wine, or refreshing rosé. Don’t forget to wash it all down with a cold beer, as you sit back and enjoy the city that never sleeps. Bon appétit!

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Stepping inside the super-exclusive New York Yacht Club where the America's Cup race started - complete with a 25ft tall fireplace, an original Tiffany glass ceiling and $150,000 joining fee

• The New York Yacht Club at 37 W 44th St formally opened its doors on January 19, 1901
• It was designed Whitney Warren of Warren and Wetmore, who later masterminded Grand Central Terminal
• Standout features include a dining room designed to look like a ship's hold and a library with 13,000 books 

By Sadie Whitelocks For Dailymail.com

Published: 12:33 EDT, 24 November 2023 | Updated: 13:02 EDT, 24 November 2023

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Standing 25ft high and 15ft wide, the 25-ton stone fireplace at the super-exclusive New York Yacht Club is certainly a sight to behold and I felt dwarfed by the structure as I stood close to the flame-licked hearth.

This design marvel was just one of the many jaw-dropping features I spied during a private tour of the Midtown members-only club, which formally opened its doors on January 19, 1901.   

Tucked away from the throng of Times Square on 37 W 44th St, the six-story Beaux-Arts clubhouse was purpose built by yachtsman and banker John Pierpont Morgan to accommodate the organization's burgeoning fleet of members. 

Thanks to regular maintenance, the building looks shipshape, with some of the standout features - along with the 'Model Room' fireplace - being a stunning Tiffany stained-glass ceiling, a 64ft by 19-ft Oriental rug, a grill room designed to look like the hold of an old sailing ship, and a library containing more than 13,000 books and antique manuscripts.

Standing 25ft high and 15ft wide, the 25-ton stone fireplace at the super exclusive New York Yacht Club is certainly a sight to behold. Above it, there is a magnificent stained-glass Tiffany ceiling

Tucked away from the throng of Times Square on 37 W 44th St, the six-story Beaux-Arts clubhouse was purpose built by yachtsman and banker John Pierpont Morgan to accommodate the organization's fleet of members

Before the 44th St clubhouse was built, the New York Yacht Club had a number of outposts in the wider area. The first clubhouse opened one year after the club was founded on July 15, 1845

Thanks to its eye-catching and unique ship-like design, the exterior of the 44th St building was designated as a landmark by the City of New York Landmarks Preservation Commission on September 11, 1979

It was a Wednesday night and the downstairs bar area was buzzing with members - mostly men in smart suits - with an oyster shucker dishing out rounds of fresh mollusks and a suited waiter taking drink orders. 

In keeping with the maritime theme, every way I turned, I caught sight of something sailing related, with model boats lining the walls and paintings depicting wave swept scenes.

As I put my glass down on the table, I noticed that even the paper napkins featured a design with boats and an anchor on, along with the club's motto Latin motto 'nos agimur tumidis velis' - 'we go with swelling sails.'

Other sailing motifs, I noticed, are part of the building's brick and mortar design.

For example, three bulbous bay windows at the front of the building were modeled after the sterns of 16th century Dutch ships and there are various carvings on the premises running from the cornicing to the fireplace surround depicting seaweed, shells, dolphins, lightning bolts, stars and more.

The characterful property was designed Whitney Warren of Warren and Wetmore, who later masterminded Grand Central Terminal. 

In a video tour of the clubhouse uploaded to YouTube , narrator and pro sailor Gary Jobson explains that while there were several architects in the running for the project, John Pierpont Morgan preferred Warren's 'much more whimsical design.'

To help finance the construction of the city clubhouse, members dues were raised from $25 per year to $50. 

Today, according to  ncesc.com , regular membership is a little pricier, with an initiation fee of $150,000 and annual dues of $12,000.

Along with having a buoyant bank balance, perspective members must be nominated by an existing member, with this nomination supported by at least four other members.

The membership committee will then invite the nominee to submit an application along with letters of recommendation outlining their qualifications. 

In terms of the benefits of becoming a member, ncesc.com explains that the perks include 'access to the club's facilities, which include dining rooms, bars, meeting rooms, and sailing centers.'

'Members also have access to the club's extensive library, archives, and art collection. In addition, the club organizes numerous social events throughout the year, including regattas, dinners, and receptions.'

In Jobson's video tour, he also reveals that there are 19 'comfortable bedrooms for members and their guests,' which can be booked out at a discounted rate. 

Before visiting the club, we were warned that business attire must be worn, with a tie, jacket and collared shirt for men, and a suit or a smart dress for women. 

The paper napkins in the dining room feature a design with boats and an anchor on, along with the club's motto Latin motto 'nos agimur tumidis velis' - 'we go with swelling sails'

An exterior shot of the characterful clubhouse taken in 1934. It looks much the same today

The library within the Manhattan clubhouse contains more than 13,000 books and antique manuscripts

One of the club's unique features is a grill room, designed to look like the hold of an old sailing ship

Certainly one of the club's standout spaces is the cavernous Model Room, which can comfortably accommodate more than 300 people with 3,800 square feet to play with

The space is home to 1,340 scaled replicas of sail boats, with the earliest model dating to 1819

If you can't stretch to club membership or don't have the right qualifications to join, the New York Yacht Club runs public tours on the last Tuesday of each month

Certainly one of the club's standout spaces is the cavernous Model Room, which can comfortably accommodate more than 300 people with 3,800 square feet to play with. 

Along with the fireplace, the space is home to 1,340 scaled replicas of sail boats displayed in large glass cases, with the earliest model dating to 1819.

One of the star vessels is a mini version of the 'America,' which was responsible for the start of the America's Cup. 

On August 22, 1851, the full-size 101-foot schooner, built by New York Yacht Club commodore and founder John Cox Stevens, raced against 15 English yachts from the UK's Royal Yacht Squadron in an annual race known as the '100 Guinea Cup,' which involved a lap of the Isle of Wight. 

The visiting America won, finishing eight minutes ahead of its closest rival, and the trophy was renamed in its honor and donated to the New York Yacht Club.

An accompanying 'Deed of Gift' stipulated that the cup should be held in trust as a perpetual challenge trophy and so the America's Cup race was born. 

Today it takes place every four years as a two-yacht race, fought between the previous year's winner - known as the 'defender' - and a challenger, which is usually the best boat from a series of run-off rounds. 

Before the 44th St clubhouse was built, the New York Yacht Club had a number of outposts in the wider area.

The first clubhouse opened one year after the club was founded on July 15, 1845.

The club's website notes that this location was was a one-room Gothic Revival building designed by 'noted' architect A. J. Davis, on land owned by Commodore John Cox Stevens in Hoboken, New Jersey.

Over the next half century, the club went on to occupy four additional clubhouses: two in Manhattan and two on Staten Island and it also maintained 11 'stations' at one point.

These 'stations' came in the form of smaller buildings and landings where 'members and friends could rendezvous, send a letter or make a telephone call.'

Now, along with the 44 St property, the club only has one other outpost, with this located next the water in Newport, Rhode Island. 

Thanks to its eye-catching and unique ship-like design, the exterior of the 44th St building was designated as a landmark by the City of New York Landmarks Preservation Commission on September 11, 1979.

If you can't stretch to club membership or don't have the right qualifications to join, the New York Yacht Club runs public tours on the last Tuesday of each month. And after paying a visit myself, it's a voyage well worth making. 

Share or comment on this article: Stepping inside the super-exclusive New York Yacht Club where the America's Cup race started - complete with a 25ft tall fireplace, an original Tiffany glass ceiling and $150,000 joining fee

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Embracing Barcelona: NYYC American Magic and Helly Hansen Take Center Stage for 37th America's Cup

Barcelona, Spain: NYYC American Magic become the first team of the 37th America's Cup to introduce themselves to the Spanish media and embrace Barcelona in an announcement at the Real Club Náutico de Barcelona (RCNB). Led by the President of Sailing Operations and Skipper Terry Hutchinson, the team showcased their resolute determination to reclaim the prestigious America's Cup and restore it to the New York Yacht Club.

With a record of 25 victories in previous editions, the New York Yacht Club stands as the most decorated yacht club in America's Cup history. NYYC American Magic aims to triumph in the 37th edition of the regatta, scheduled to take place in the vibrant city of Barcelona in September and October 2024.

Since arriving in Barcelona in June, the team has been acclimating to the racecourse and the varying sea conditions they will encounter. Meticulous training and skill refinement have taken place at their base in Pensacola, Florida, since October 2022, ensuring they are fully prepared for the challenges that lie ahead.

Helly Hansen, the team's official apparel sponsor since April 2018, has played a crucial role in their journey. Equipping the team with cutting-edge equipment and innovative solutions, Helly Hansen's commitment to safety and technological advancements has allowed the sailors to focus solely on their sailing and development program and target the 37th America's Cup. From impact-minimizing protective gear to weight-saving 3D patterns, their partnership has propelled NYYC American Magic toward a higher level of performance.

Hutchinson said, "We're very fortunate to have Helly Hansen as a partner, and they were the first partner to sign back on after the 36th America's Cup. The way we present ourselves onshore, and more importantly, the way the athletes present themselves on the water, is critical to the success of our team. Having Helly Hansen based here in Barcelona is a bonus for the team, as they're very receptive and responsive to the team's feedback - they are essential for the team's performance."

The team recognizes the significance of adapting to different sailing conditions, with Barcelona's unique racecourse offering a mix of calm waters and challenging sea states. Helmsmen Tom Slingsby and Paul Goodison understand the nuances of navigating these conditions, ensuring the team remains versatile and adaptable.

Tom Slingsby said, "In the last three America's Cups, which were held in foiling boats, the venues were Auckland, Bermuda, and San Francisco, all of which had flat water. Now, we're in a venue with waves. Historically, foiling in waves has been very challenging. This America's Cup will be really interesting because the designers and teams have to create a boat that can perform in all conditions." Paul Goodison added, "As we transition into the waves, all the teams have a lot to learn about what their boats are capable of in different conditions. As the sea state gets bigger, sailing becomes more difficult, and it's about understanding how hard you can push in certain conditions while racing against both yourself and the other teams."

While the AC40 serves as the training and race boat for the preliminary regattas, all eyes are on the eagerly anticipated AC75. The new boat, set to arrive in Barcelona in April 2024, has been designed to excel in a wide range of conditions and solidify NYYC American Magic's bid for victory.

Beyond the competition itself, NYYC American Magic seeks to forge strong connections with the city of Barcelona. The team has been overwhelmed by their warm welcome and is grateful for the opportunity to immerse themselves in the local sailing community.

Andrew Campbell provided insight into life in Barcelona, saying, "We are really enjoying it here in Barcelona. My daily routine involves sending my kids off to school every morning. My family has settled in and is truly enjoying the city. Knowing that they're happy and well-adjusted puts me on a good path to go to work and fully engage in the racing every day."

Barcelona's authenticity, history, and maritime presence resonate deeply with the team, fostering a strong sense of appreciation and belonging.

Minnesota Yacht Club festival will return in 2025 with an added third day of music

The festival is set again for July 18-20 following a strong turnout in the St. Paul event’s inaugural year.

By Chris Riemenschneider

The dates have been set for the Minnesota Yacht Club music festival’s return to St. Paul’s Harriet Island Regional Park in July 2025, and there’s already one glaring difference from its inaugural year: Three days are listed instead of two.

“Thanks to your support, we’re extending to THREE days,” festival organizers announced in social media posts Tuesday morning.

The days confirmed in the announcement are July 18-20, a Friday through a Sunday. This year’s MYC fell on the same weekend but only ran Friday and Saturday , with performers including the Red Hot Chili Peppers, Alanis Morissette, Gwen Stefani, Gary Clark Jr., Joan Jett and the Offspring.

There was little doubt the festival would be back for another year. It drew a near-capacity crowd of around 35,000 fans each day of its 2024 run, and — aside from some intermittently long concession lines — it earned relatively high marks from organizers and audience members alike.

“We were very happy with the inaugural festival this year,” MYC promoter Tim Sweetwood of C3 Presents, which put on the festival, said in a statement. “Our team has continued to work closely with Saint Paul city officials and collectively determined expanding into a third day made a lot of sense. We are thrilled to return with an all-new lineup July 18-20, 2025 and will continue to highlight the arts and people of Minnesota.”

Organizers have not yet offered more info on the second-year plans, including what kind of an impact the added third day will have on ticket prices. The only link included in Tuesday’s announcement was to pre-book rooms at hotels affiliated with the festival.

Fans can likely expect to pay about $100 more for the general admission passes for three days instead of two. Those started around $200 in early bird pricing for this past year’s festival before being bumped up to $255. The many different VIP options — $255-$1,395 for two-day passes in 2024 — will also go up exponentially with the extra day.

Texas’ C3 Presents specializes in multiday festivals such as Lollapalooza in Chicago, Austin City Limits, Boston Calling and New York’s Governors Ball. Those fests all last three days, too.

What typically happens with these festivals is: Early bird tickets go on sale in the fall or winter at discount prices without any of next year’s artists being named, then the music lineup gets announced in the winter or spring, and then tickets go on sale at their standard prices.

In other words, expect many more updates on MYC 2025 between now and next summer.

about the writer

Chris riemenschneider.

Chris Riemenschneider has been covering the Twin Cities music scene since 2001, long enough for Prince to shout him out during "Play That Funky Music (White Boy)." The St. Paul native authored the book "First Avenue: Minnesota's Mainroom" and previously worked as a music critic at the Austin American-Statesman in Texas.

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