yacht club refurbishment

Photos: Inside New Rooms at Yacht Club

Following its latest refurbishment, Disney’s Yacht Club Resort has redesigned rooms, which are one component of a resort-wide re-imagining of this Walt Disney World hotel. In this post, we’ll review the new rooms, share some photos, and thoughts on the changes at Yacht Club.

While other changes are still underway throughout the resort, it’s worth noting that the room refurbishment at Yacht Club is now entirely finished. I suppose this is good or bad news depending upon your opinion of the new rooms. Either way, there’s no need to request an old or new room. They’re all new.

This was yet another stop on our recent Walt Disney World “vacation” during which we stayed in 6 different new or newly-refurbished rooms. Given that the room refurbishment coincides with a convention center expansion, I was not exactly optimistic about what we’d find at Yacht Club…

This is because the changes at Yacht Club are, in large part, aimed at making it more appealing to the convention-going demographic. Elsewhere at Walt Disney World where the goal has been making rooms more appealing to non-families or non-fans, the result has left something to be desired.

We’ve harped on this in the past, so I won’t rehash it all here. Basically, the more ‘mainstream’ Walt Disney World makes a hotel room, the less-themed the result. There have been some exceptions to this, and these room designs have been a bit hit or miss. At least, from my fan perspective. Conventioneers and others might (and do) disagree.

Anyway, let’s take a look at the old rooms before we offer further commentary:

Fairly bright and airy, albeit having a 1990s quality to them. Personally, I liked these rooms, but I wouldn’t say they fit well with the Yacht Club’s aesthetic in common areas, which is generally more stately and sophisticated.

Now, let’s take a look at the new rooms:

Perhaps it was because my expectations were low going in, but I loved this room. If anything, I would say it is more themed than before, with excellent use of navy blue and beige contrasted against white, which really looks sharp in the context. The color palette alone reinforces the nautical theme.

Beyond that, there’s an extensive use of dark woods, which really give the room an air of sophistication. It reminded me of the interior of a Brooks Brothers, oddly enough. There’s also a variety of textures, the extent of which might be tough to ascertain from the photos.

Most notably, there are small rivets or other ship fastenings throughout, including on the dresser and other furniture. Then you have the headboards, mirror, and desk. Some of the nice features of the room now include a built-in ironing board, wood floors, abundance of storage (including under-the-bed room for luggage), and Keurig coffee makers.

The attention to detail in the new Yacht Club rooms is incredible, and all of it works to cement the theme. If your idea of a good Walt Disney World room includes an infusion of characters, you will be disappointed. Aside from a couple of them hidden in constellations on the curtain (a really cool curtain, by the way), the room is devoid of Disney IP. Fine with me, as I regularly stress that Disney characters are not “theme.” Really, the only thing I dislike is the framed pictures on the walls (too modern and ‘artsy’), but the rest works well.

One thing that I think most definitely was a mistake was not putting a runner on the bed. As mentioned in our Pop Century New Rooms post, I think the beds look naked without this, and it’s an industry-wide trend I hope stops. Imagine how much better this room could look with the simple addition of a runner that looks like the throw pillows on the couch.

During our visit, we spoke with a higher-level Cast Member at Disney’s Yacht Club Resort who indicated that they had solicited a lot of feedback, particularly from conventioneers, prior to making the updates to the room.

Generally speaking, this is not particularly noteworthy. Disney regularly prefaces whatever decision is being made with, “Due to feedback from our guests…” Often, it’s used as cover to justify decisions that are going to be unpopular with fans.

What’s interesting here is that the Cast Member was clear that this feedback was actively sought from convention attendees, as opposed to families or other demographics. Supposedly, Disney created multiple different test rooms to aid in the redesign, too.

While we absolutely love the new style, I can envision a couple of complaints. The new style is a bit dark and drab; I think this is appropriate, as that’s the visual style of the resort as a whole, and if you want to brighten it up, opening the curtains fixes that.

I think this will also lead to people finding the rooms stuffier or less inviting. The older rooms were no doubt lighter and had more of a quintessential ‘fun’ Disney vibe to them, but I still think these rooms are nicer and more appropriate thematically.

Moreover, I think most business and convention-going guests, these new rooms will be a very welcome improvement, even if they don’t win over some Disney fans. Among hardcore fans and repeat families, Yacht Club is not a particularly popular resort. Like any resort, it has its fans, but many people regard it as stuffy and less kid-friendly.

I don’t see these changes moving the needle one way or the other for families. On the other hand, I think the changes make Yacht Club much more compelling for conventioneers, adults without kids, and those looking for a room that’s more understated.

While I liked the old room at Yacht Club, it look was starting to feel a bit tired and some of the rooms were worse for wear. The changes are nice upgrades, and make it feel more commensurate in quality with the high nightly price being charged.

(Note: If you’re wondering why the sheets aren’t discolored, the furniture is not trashed, and there’s not feces spread over every inch of the walls, it’s because we were here before Yacht Club became a post-apocalyptic canine wasteland. Now that Yacht Club is dog-friendly , we can only assume it looks like a worse version of Parkside Hotel & Suites now . Walt is rolling in his grave. Smh.)

Beyond the room changes, the hallways and some common areas have also been refurbished and look great. Some areas of Yacht Club were looking a bit worse for wear, so these refurbishments are very welcome.

As noted, Walt Disney World is currently expanding the Yacht Club convention center facility to nearly 100,000 square feet. Speaking of which, this DisneyMeetings.com press release details the other upgrades being made to improve the convention experience at Yacht Club. (It’s also an interesting read to see how Walt Disney World markets itself to conventioneers, I think.)

The dining scene at Yacht Club is also in the process of changing . The Market at Ale & Compass has already opened, with the next steps being a re-imagined lobby lounge and new concept for the former Captain’s Grille, which will become Ale & Compass Restaurant. Too bad none of these changes entail a fully-fledged counter service restaurant or food court. (Yacht Club is admittedly not the best spot for that, but one of the Crescent Lake resorts could use one!)

Overall, the Yacht Club room refurbishment seems like one of those rare times a change has been made in a Walt Disney World hotel that will please both the fan and non-fan constituencies. Conventioneers will appreciate the modern and fresh-looking rooms that are well-appointed and classy. Disney fans who were likely to book Yacht Club before will appreciate that there’s still a lot to the themed design. I’m sure there are still legitimate quibbles to be made with these new rooms, but frankly, I didn’t spot anything that I’d consider even remotely major. From my perspective, this is a job exceptionally well done by Walt Disney World.

Planning a Walt Disney World trip? Learn about hotels on our Walt Disney World Hotels Reviews page. For where to eat, read our Walt Disney World Restaurant Reviews . To save money on tickets or determine which type to buy, read our Tips for Saving Money on Walt Disney World Tickets post. Our What to Pack for Disney Trips post takes a unique look at clever items to take. For what to do and when to do it, our Walt Disney World Ride Guides will help. For comprehensive advice, the best place to start is our Walt Disney World Trip Planning Guide for everything you need to know!

Your Thoughts

Do you agree or disagree with our take on the new Yacht Club rooms? Would you stay here, or is this resort off of your radar due to the refurbishment? Any questions we can help you answer? Hearing feedback about your experiences is both interesting to us and helpful to other readers, so please share your thoughts below in the comments!

Written by Tom Bricker

The new rooms look great. However….those dresser drawers look useless. Incorporating the fridge into the dresser at wdw resorts was the worst idea ever. I love the corner units at PoP and AKL. Adds so much functionality to the rooms. I’ll ignore your comment about dog rooms

I love love love that the rugs are Being pulled up, and a hard surface is down in its place. I wish all hotels would do this!

Have stayed at the Yacht Club both in October and November. We like the Yacht Club with respect to location. As for the rooms. We love them overall. The safe is much larger. There are plenty of outlets to charge your phone. Nice lamps built into the bed frame for reading. The HVAC unit seemed very quiet and efficient. Both my wife and I enjoyed the shower with the glass door. No curtains here! One interesting item they added was a sliding door to close off the sink area so it gave you privacy without waking up that late sleeper. We stayed at a first floor room and a third floor room on our visits. The only difference between the two was a large lamp in the center of the ceiling on the third floor room. Finally, my only complaint was the absence of a pen and notepad. Housekeeping told me they were cutting back! Could have used it when I was booking a Bounceback offer on the phone.

Like the Yacht Club redo but the bathtub and shower didn’t see any grab bars for safety. Don’t want room with room in shower not handicapped but where’s the safety, put in grab bars please.

We LOVE the more refined decor in the Yacht club rooms. We’ve stayed there twice since the new make-over. Never would stay there before because of the blinding red and blue child’s bedroom vibe. LOVE the sleek floors (carpet is not a very clean feel). It now looks like a Yacht Club would look – elegant, nautical, high-end. Good taste Disney.

Took family of 5 to a split stay with yacht club first then poly. Absolutely loved the yacht club rooms. So functional and convenient. Only problem was we could not use balcony due to love bugs but also a problem at poly. Think I actually prefer Yacht club to poly. One bummer was they moved the beautiful giant globe from the lobby to near the convention center. Boo!

More drabness!!!!!!!! These refurb are a 100% fail. A Disney resort should look DISNEY!!!!!!!! These rooms do not.

I do not understand why so many Disney room remodels are removing the ceiling fans!! In Florida with the year round heat and humidity, ceiling fans are a tremendous benefit and in my mind, they are an absolute necessity!!

We just got back from a 6 night stay at the Yacht Club! I loved it! Would be happy to only ever stay there! We were in room 2133 and the view was incredible! I would highly recommend the Yacht Club!

I think you are spot on about having a runner on the bed to match the pillows on the couch being an addition that would improve the decor greatly. That and maybe a few subtle details- such as adding a couple nautical tiles in the bathroom shower – would make for a sophisticated yet fun room. We stayed in a one bedroom DVC rental at Jambo House. I was amazed at how small things – like a tiny, carved lion cub on a piece of furniture, bedroom lamp with a large bird egg worked into the base, a couple of themed tiles in the shower – made the room so warm and interesting.

I don’t understand this trend of installing “hardwood” floors in hotel rooms. I understand that they are easier to clean but don’t they alter the noise level? I think the room looks fine, although like you I think the “art” is too modern, but it could benefit from a runner between the beds and the dresser at the very least.

Your comments about it being “dog friendly “, lol

We’re booked to stay at YC in January. It was a fail safe in case our planned December trip fell through – which it did, halfway, but that’s a story for another time (one of us is going!) – and I got an awesome rate from Disney Visa offers. (Under $300 for a deluxe room? Why heck yeah!!) Since it just us two oldies (chronologically speaking, that is) a more sophisticated environment sounds lovely. We toured the lobbies last year during the holiday season, and I fell in love with the whole Boardwalk area. We were staying at the Swan then – again, we appreciate the “lack of theming” and a more grown up aesthetic. We stayed at CBR last September, and construction and hurricane and all aside, it was nice, very casual where you’d feel comfortable running to the Coke station in your sweat pants and bare feet, but not Motel 6 like. I’ve visited the values – sorry but not my cup of tea with the bright, garish color schemes, noisy, Disney-in-your-face-24/7, over excited kids running everywhere – and stay off the lawn too, ya darn kids!!

I’m excited to see the new rooms in the spring. It is one of our favorite resorts, but we are just 2 adults. I love the proximity to the Boardwalk & Epcot, the smaller size, access to the nicer pool, and I love the full balcony. The balcony alone is a huge seller for me.

I love these new higher beds! They had them at the Grand Californian when we stayed last month. It’s super practical to be able to slide your luggage under the bed to get it out of the way. It also really helps when you are cramming people into the room like sardines.

I do really like the look of the new rooms, but I agree with you about the bed runner. The bed looks cold. Like I’m going to freeze all night. I thought the same thing about the new Pop rooms. Maybe I just need to pack a blanket.

Just came back from Disney and stayed at All Star Movies. The remodeled room was absolutely nice and the bed was incredibly comfortable. Perfect place to stay if your going with some little ones.

I really like the look of the new rooms. To be honest even though I’m an AP holder (from California that stays in the resorts when at WDW) and not a conventioneer I was not a fan of the previous rooms but now I’m anxious to stay at YC.

With these new room refurbs, is Disney taking steps to lesson the impact of bed bugs? Things like mattress encasements, etc?

I have wanted to stay at the Yacht Club for years – ever since I saw a Rick Steves piece on the resort. I was allured by the YC as it was then We finally stayed at the Yacht Club in April ’17 during the refurbishments. We ended up on the first floor in a not-yet-renovated room. Because of unrelated issues, we were moved to a new room on the 4th floor toward the end of our trip and were blown away! The rooms feel spacious and carry the yacht theme well with nautical tones and subtle touches. The common areas are both sophisticated and fun. I am not a conventioneer, but a Disney fan and a mother of two, and my family will stay at the Yacht Club again.

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• News / Refurbishment / Resorts / Walt Disney World

Disney’s Yacht Club Resort is Scheduled for Refurbishment in 2025

by Allison Fricker · April 29, 2024

Disney’s Yacht Club Resort is known for its nautical details, elegant vibe, and close proximity to EPCOT and Disney’s Hollywood Studios .

Add that to an incredible pool, delicious dining , and upscale accommodations and you’ve got a recipe for one seriously magical Disney vacation!

Photo: Disney

Of course, maintaining those beautiful grounds and pristine interiors means daily upkeep (thanks, Mousekeeping! ) as well as occasional construction. 

We already know that the Yacht Club’s feature pool, Stormalong Bay, will be closed for refurbishment between January 2025 and June 2025.

Stormalong Bay at Disney’s Yacht Club Resort

Now, Disney has announced that the resort’s guest rooms will also see a refurbishment during this time. Let’s check it out!

Room Refurbishment at Disney’s Yacht Club Resort

According to Disney, some guest rooms at the resort will be under refurbishment from January 2025 through May 2025. 

Disney is careful to note that the refurbishment includes “some” — but not all — guest rooms. 

The construction may cause some additional noise during the day, but the work should quiet down by nighttime. This way, guests can still enjoy a peaceful night’s rest!

The notice indicates that “most” resort amenities will remain open during the refurbishment period.

However, the refurbishment at Stormalong Bay will run simultaneously, meaning the feature pool will be closed during the room refurbishments. Guests will still be able to swim at The Yacht Club’s Tidal, Admiral, and Dunes Cove leisure pools.

A Fresh New Look

So far, few details are known about the upcoming room refurbishment. 

Disney’s Yacht Club Resort received its last upgrade back in 2018 when the wallpaper borders were removed and carpets were replaced with dark wood flooring.

The result was a sophisticated look with a distinctly upscale vibe.

We’re not sure what Disney has in mind for the refurbishment, but we can’t wait to find out!

Staying During Construction?

If you’re staying at Disney’s Yacht Club Resort during the upcoming room or pool refurbishments, you’ll still enjoy the resort’s amazing amenities, beautiful grounds, and peaceful pools.

If noise is a concern, be sure to request a room that’s far from construction.

Stay tuned to MickeyBlog for all the latest Disney Resorts news!

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ICONIC DISNEY SNACKS: Cheshire Cat Tail at Cheshire Cafe

Disney's Yacht Club Resort

View Gallery 

While Guests may see or hear construction work during daytime hours, most Resort hotel amenities will remain available.

What Makes This Resort Hotel Unique

Disney Skyliner Transportation

This gondola system offers a bird's eye view as it whisks you and your family away to EPCOT and Disney's Hollywood Studios.

Outdoor Water Recreation Area

Discover a life-size shipwreck, pools, lagoons and more at Stormalong Bay—a 3-acre water wonderland. Read More

Discover a life-size shipwreck, pools, lagoons and more at Stormalong Bay—a 3-acre water wonderland.

Climb the mast and zip down one of the highest hotel waterslides at Walt Disney World Resort. Catch currents on an inner tube in the lazy river, unwind in one of 3 whirlpool spas and relax on the elevated tanning deck. Children can wade into the main pool from a gentle slope and splash about in 2 kiddie pools—including one with a miniature waterslide.

Prefer a more tranquil experience? Explore 3 all-ages quiet pools—each with a whirlpool spa—located throughout Disney’s Yacht & Beach Club Resorts.

Learn more about recreation at Disney’s Yacht Club Resort.

Yachtsman Steakhouse

Savor mouthwatering steaks, seafood and more at this sophisticated, family-friendly restaurant.

Ship Shape Health Club

Enjoy a workout or indulge in a massage at this full-service fitness center.

Dog-Friendly Accommodations

Bring your pampered pooch to stay with you at Disney’s Yacht Club Resort. Read More

Bring your pampered pooch to stay with you at Disney’s Yacht Club Resort.

Here at Walt Disney World Resort, we know that dogs aren’t simply pets—they’re members of your family. And since family is at the heart of everything we do, for a limited time, your furry friends are welcome to join you at select Disney Resort hotels. Let the tail wagging commence!

Note: Limit 2 dogs per room. Restrictions and fees apply.

How to Book Bring your dog along on your upcoming visit by calling (407) 939-5277. Guests under 18 years of age must have parent or guardian permission to call.

Services for Guests with Dogs During your stay, Best Friends Pet Care can provide assistance with day care and other pet services (fees apply). For details, please call (877) 4-WDW-PETS or (877) 493-9738, or visit bestfriendspetcare.com . Guests under 18 years of age must have parent or guardian permission to call.

Some restrictions on certain pets may apply. Before you arrive, be sure to download the official dog policy PDF .

Need More Room?

Consider booking a Disney Deluxe Villa with just-like-home amenities like a kitchen, washer, dryer and private bedrooms. Read More

Consider booking a Disney Deluxe Villa with just-like-home amenities like a kitchen, washer, dryer and private bedrooms.

When you stay at Disney’s Beach Club Villas , you’ll enjoy the same benefits offered at Disney’s Yacht Club Resort—along with spacious Disney Deluxe Villa accommodations. It’s an outstanding home base for your Walt Disney World vacation.

Discover the Villa Difference Disney’s Beach Club Villas and other Disney Deluxe Villa Resorts offer accommodations with just-like-home touches that go beyond the traditional hotel room.

Choose from 1-, 2- and 3-Bedroom Villas—as well as Cabins and Bungalows at select Resort hotels—with the following features:

• A full kitchen , so you can prepare meals and snacks from the comfort of your villa
• Spacious living and dining areas where your family can share even more quality time together after you return from the parks
• Separate bedrooms that offer space, privacy and tranquility – so it’s easy to rest, relax and recharge your spirit after each exhilarating vacation day
• A washer and dryer , so you can pack lightly and avoid airline baggage fees

A little more than you need? Disney Deluxe Villa Resorts also feature Deluxe Studios, which feature a kitchenette and sleeper sofa—a great option for smaller travel parties and shorter stays.

Reservations and Rates Check availability and nightly rates at Disney’s Beach Club Villas.

More Magic for Your Stay

A More Magical Stay Starts with "Hey Disney!”

The "Hey Disney!" voice assistant experience features tons of character fun plus a helpful host, who can order you extra towels and answer lots of your park questions.

Disney Signature Services

Guests staying in Club-level rooms and suites are eligible for personalized vacation-planning support.

Enhance Your Stay with the My Disney Experience App

Simplify your arrival, access your room and discover a world of fun with this helpful app. Read More

Simplify your arrival, access your room and discover a world of fun with this helpful app.

Be sure you have the latest version of the My Disney Experience app to enjoy these handy features during your stay.

Check In and Check Out with Ease

Enjoy a simplified arrival at your Disney Resort hotel! Use the app to begin the check-in process , view your room number and even unlock your door .

At the end of your stay, there’s no need to stop by the Front Desk if you have a valid payment card on file or a zero-dollar balance on your account. Instead, check out of your room via the app by visiting My Reservations or your Hotel Account.

Plan, Play, Dine and Unwind

There are many more ways to enhance your stay! With the app, you can:

• Make vacation plans during your stay—and review existing plans
• Enter the theme parks (with a valid park reservation and valid admission) using Disney MagicMobile service
• Order food and beverages with mobile order service
• Check park schedules
• Get directions
• Explore transportation options
• View your Disney PhotoPass photos

And that’s only the beginning!

Learn more about the My Disney Experience app .

Available for iPhone®, iPad® and smartphones for Android™. Message, data and roaming rates may apply. Availability subject to handset limitations and features may vary by handset or service provider. Coverage and app stores not available everywhere. If you’re under 18, get your parents’ permission first. Apple, the Apple logo, iPhone, and iPad are trademarks of Apple Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries. App Store is a service mark of Apple Inc. Android and Google Play are trademarks of Google Inc .

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St. Pete Yacht Club to be torn down, rebuilt in 5 years. Here’s why.

• Bernadette Berdychowski Times staff

Hurricane Ian was a wake-up call, said St. Petersburg Yacht Club rear commodore Joe DiVito.

For several years, St. Petersburg Yacht Club leaders discussed options to renovate the century-old downtown facility on Beach Drive. But after the devastation of yacht clubs farther south in the Fort Myers area from the Category 4 storm originally forecast to hit Tampa Bay , DiVito said they had to act.

“Hurricane Ian was a message that said, you need to plan for the future if you’re going to spend this much money,” DiVito explained.

Their plan? Tear down the yacht club and start anew.

But demolition won’t happen soon. The St. Petersburg Yacht Club is thinking five years ahead, said DiVito, who’s third in command and the club’s appointed project spokesperson. The downtown organization, which has about 2,500 members, needs to raise funds for a project that could cost up to $40 million, find a temporary replacement home and finalize architectural designs to have the rebuilding completed by 2028.

Membership fees would go up from $50 to $125 a month to help finance construction costs, DeVito said.

He added the new building would incorporate the same Mediterranean architectural style as the current club.

The waterfront yacht club at 11 Central Ave. was originally constructed in 1917 and has had several renovations throughout its history. In 1921, it was hit by the last major hurricane to make landfall in the Tampa Bay region, which caused extensive flood damage to the building, according to club archives. Membership still increased after that storm, and the building extended its clubhouse in 1922.

Many parts of the building are now on their last legs, DiVito said. And with a bustling downtown, members wanted more amenities.

Remodeling would be too expensive because the waterfront building isn’t up to newer Federal Emergency Management Agency standards to be insured in case a storm hits. Starting fresh would allow the building to comply with those standards and add amenities and more parking space for a growing membership.

“Looking at the damage of the hurricane and how we’ve been lucky for almost 100 years, it doesn’t make any sense to put $15 million into a building that’s at major flood risk of being hit,” DeVito said. “And you lose all that money and have to start over again because flood insurance doesn’t pay dollar for dollar.”

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St. Pete Yacht Club to be demolished

First opened in 1917, the St. Petersburg Yacht Club’s downtown facility has served as a waterfront landmark for over a century; however, father time and mother nature have caught up to the historic building.

Brian K. Smith, club president, notified members of the impending demolition and redevelopment project in a letter Tuesday. The decision stems from a “well-qualified” architectural firm’s study and over 20 focus group sessions.

Participants listed their desired improvements for the building at 11 Central Avenue, which officials determined were cost-prohibitive. In addition, the letter states the need for an elevator, roof, tiki and pool deck replacement, electrical repairs and an updated kitchen.

“It became evident that remodeling of the clubhouse to accommodate all of the changes desired by the membership would simply not be practical,” Smith wrote. “But most importantly, we would end up with a remodeled building which would not comply with current FEMA (Federal Emergency Management Agency) standards.”

Smith explained that the building’s floor elevation is six feet below current FEMA regulations, and the waterfront mainstay is no stranger to storms. Club archives state that the “Great Hurricane of October 1921” caused extensive flooding four years after the building opened.

An unnamed hurricane caused significant flooding to the facility in October 1921. Screengrab.

Despite the damage, membership continued increasing, and the organization extended the clubhouse north. The expanded facility formally opened in December 1922.

Just under a century later, Hurricane Ian highlighted the need for more resilient Yacht Club infrastructure.

As rear commodore, Joe DeVito is the organization’s third in command. Officials nominated him to serve as the project’s spokesperson.

He told the Catalyst that club leadership began developing a long-term master plan before Ian hit Southwest Florida in late September 2022 “and devasted several yacht clubs – just like ours.”

“Those clubs were wiped out,” DeVito added. “So, we started looking at planning.”

FEMA regulations mandate a complete replacement if a flood or hurricane causes damage exceeding 50% of the facility’s value. According to the agency, that is $1.5 million.

“And it wasn’t practical to put probably $10 to $15 million into an old building and still be six feet below FEMA limits,” DeVito said.

According to a Master Facilities Planning Committee motion, “major infrastructure components of the clubhouse have reached or are reaching the end of life and required substantial cost.” The Yacht Club will now create another committee to oversee planning for a new downtown facility, in compliance with federal requirements.

DeVito said they would also design the new building according to member feedback. He said they understand the situation and leadership’s hesitation to spend millions of other people’s money on something that “could get destroyed by a hurricane.”

“We’ve been very lucky for 100 years,” DeVito said. “We want to build a new building that solves the deficiencies and gives us what we want. And puts us in good shape for the next 100 years.”

He relayed that club officials “are very conscientious of preserving our history” and plan to keep the same Mediterranean-style design. DeVito also explained that an elevated building would provide desperately needed additional parking space.

The organization’s board of directors unanimously approved the initiative, and construction will begin in five years. In his letter, Smith called it “a critical step for the future of our club, assuring our members are safe and (a) state of the art facility for the next generation.”

The Yacht Club’s grand opening celebration in 1917. Screengrab.

“An important component of the plan is to secure a temporary location to serve our members during the construction period,” he added. “It is also anticipated that the hours of operation of the Pass-A-Grille location will be maximized during this time frame.”

That facility, located at 2301 Pass a Grille Way in St. Pete Beach, closes on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. It also opens later than the downtown location and closes earlier on Friday and Saturday nights.

Smith expects construction to take two years.

He told members that redevelopment funding would come from new initiation fees and a capital contribution charge implemented in January. He also anticipates increasing monthly dues from $50 to $125 at the beginning of fiscal year 2024-25.

The planning committee’s motion states that “the club does not have the funds to undertake a major remodel or rebuild without a substantial assessment, which will burden many members.” The plan is to raise 50% of the estimated cost before construction commences and finance the balance.

The motion also notes that the House and Grounds Committee will complete any maintenance and repairs “found to be reasonable and necessary” to keep the building code compliant and safe and to ensure quality member experiences. Smith called the long-term initiative “an efficient and risk-assessed endeavor.”

“Our most important goal is to be open and communicative throughout the duration of this project,” he concluded.

24 Comments

June 6, 2023at8:29 pm

It’s not the original building. The original building was partially demolished and build around to make the current building. That was 25-30 years ago. There is very little recognizable that’s left of the old building.

Taarou Bell

June 6, 2023at8:43 am

Hmmm… Let me guess more New luxury high rise condo, or apartment will be build in that spot.

John Marshall

June 6, 2023at7:09 am

This will probably bankrupt this club. The city of St Pete building process is a minefield. Could take years to finish if ever. Plus there’s provisions in the club agreements with the city that could trigger it reverting back to the city. They’re going to need the wait list and a lot more to make it to the finish line. Season’s change my friend

Harold Dean

June 4, 2023at6:05 pm

It would be interesting to know how many buildings on Beach Drive comply with FEMA and should those that don’t be demolished? We have a beautiful building and the odds are it will last indefinitely as hurricanes in the gulf usually go to the panhandle and in the last 100 years have not been severe enough to destroy our building or those on Beach Drive . Some thing this important should be voted on by the membership.

Bill Waters

June 4, 2023at3:57 pm

So much misinformation. Building is Not 100 years old. Building was built in 1990, and has mechanical and structural issues now. Will be replaced by similar looking Club (no condo?). Remodel costs about 2/3 of new, Club would still be 6 feet below FEMA regs, FEMA will not allow Club to spend that much (Look up FEMA regs on that particular building. Its public info). Additionally, if the Club could remodel, not all issues would not be solved. There is no planned assessment. The Club has a wait list.

June 2, 2023at6:03 pm

The architecture in Europe is so beautiful because they keep restoring the old buildings. It costs a bit more but you have a thing of beauty not a replicated box.

June 2, 2023at4:28 pm

@penny whites are the majority. You’re referring to an athletics club.

June 2, 2023at4:20 pm

Spyc and downtown are experiencing the same phenomenon. Outside people. Outside culture. Outside money. All of a sudden Miami is something to envy. It was fun while it lasted. I moved here 10 years ago to watch a sleepy beach town become a vibrant college town to become hotels nonsense politics and wtf. Thanks for the memories everyone. On to the next spot to ruin i guess.

Greg Newman

June 2, 2023at2:55 pm

The city should take over the property through imminent domain, demolish the structure and turn the area into the adjoining parks. That silly little airport should be turned into park land also.

June 2, 2023at2:34 pm

Carl, a new building will not change any thinking of the white stronghold. They are oblivious and will deny any privilege of the majority.

Brandon Alan

June 2, 2023at12:04 pm

Doesn’t make sense. As a former employee in middle BOH management there, the club isn’t bad. It’s old yes, it’s outdated yes, but it’s not trash. It’s still a social club of old st Pete money. That’s why they want to revamp. They want that new st Pete money. They want to get younger. If you want to see money move, it’s definitely at the yacht club. Plus it’s in a nice spot. It’s on a corner, out of the way. They have a garage with valet. You have to be a member to be there, so it’s all inclusive. It’s just another example of St Pete selling out and loosing our identity

Mark Davidson

June 2, 2023at12:00 pm

They should keep the front of the building and replace or rebuild the back to keep st Pete looking original please give this a try keep St Pete looking original long time resident. Mark Davidson and Family 😃😃😃

Kenneth Sim

June 2, 2023at10:12 am

It should have been taken down 10 years ago, I’ve been in the Building many times and as it is not up to code its time to do so. Keeping it in a Mediterranean style will make it seem like the way it has always been, and will continue to be a jewel in Downtown St. Pete…

Fred Harvey

June 2, 2023at9:06 am

They will be spending just as much on the new structure with CHEAP MATERIALS!!!! Goodbye old St Petersburg Goodbye

Danielle Terry

June 2, 2023at8:50 am

Save st pete …this sickens me when will they stop.

Rick Moseley

June 2, 2023at8:33 am

AS a member of the club for years now and attending several of the focus meetings I think this is a good long tr=erm decision.

I believe that the board will present a improvement to the water front that will serve the members and be a plus to the city .

ROBERT L. VESSEL

June 2, 2023at8:14 am

I wonder how many members will choose to cancel their memberships when they receive their assessment for the new building?

J R Riddick

June 2, 2023at8:03 am

This is an historic building…. The only reason why they want to demolish it is so they can build yet another damn condo! Just sad… just destroying the City’s history!

Mary Henter

June 2, 2023at7:53 am

This is a disgraced. The members should be allowed to vote on this. As a member, I am against this. The thing about FEMA is wrong and a way to fool members into thinking it is fact If it were true, over half of DT would have to be torn down and rebuilt. They are grandfathered in. Plus it’s a joke having a FEMA appraisal and not one by a certified appraiser. The yacht club should get rated as Historical do they can’t tear down

Carl R Lavender

June 2, 2023at7:28 am

The St Pete Yacht Club is a monument to a bygone era when private access and association was the norm for a select group of people who saw the world as their own. It being demolished is also a symbol of the more than necessary time in our society for all people to have the same access to the same opportunities without any hindrances or prejudice. I recall walking through the Club passing the corridor with the photographs of Admirals. Interesting to say the least. I was on another occasion given the dinner plate by a guest who thought I was the waiter. I was also a guest. Still another time I was a given a valet ticket by a guest who thought I was a parking valet. I was a guest also. The Yacht Club is an museum now. I’m curious… what was its role in developing the City of St Petersburg?

June 2, 2023at5:52 am

It’s sad to see St. Pete lose another historical building. But it sounds like they’ve done a thorough analysis.

June 1, 2023at9:08 pm

Time to move on and build a building that makes sense. I’ve been there numerous times over the years. It is wonky old and outdated. To keep it like it is even for historical sense just does not work. Can’t wait to see the new and improved building that will serve the members and others for many years to come. To see the possibilities look what was accomplished in other cities that have taken a major undertaking like this. And then compare that to others that do not move on and do what should be done to move their club into the next 100 years.

Jamie Thomas

June 1, 2023at7:25 pm

This makes me so sad. I worked there in a band during the early to mid 80s and it played a prominent roll for me not only as a place of employment but the fun we took part in and created for its members. Its demolition will leave a hole in my heart.

David Grundfor

June 1, 2023at6:08 pm

Sounds like a big mess and more disturbingly that more of the old Saint Petersburg will be destroyed in favor of something that looks brand new and cheap.This building was built over a hundred years ago it should be Restored not torn down.The city risk losing it’s Identity if this kind of thing keeps going on too long I think we’re reaching a point at which we cannot do this kind of thing anymore.

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