columbia yacht club membership cost

Columbia Yacht Club

Review Highlights

“ Alright, I am a member here and have been eating here since I was old enough to consume solids. ” in 10 reviews

“ The view of the Chicago skyline as the icing on the cake along with fireworks off of Navy Pier . ” in 5 reviews

“ (unless your more of the McDonalds crowd) Laid back bar, and a great chef in one of the cities most beautiful settings. ” in 2 reviews

Location & Hours

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111 N Lake Shore Dr

Chicago, IL 60601

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Amenities and More

About the business.

Business owner information

Whether you own a vessel or just love being on the water, you will find that Columbia's diversity offers something for everyone. Unparalled skyline views combined with our gourmet food and year-round social activities make Columbia Yacht Club one of Chicago's most fun and unique clubs. The Sailing School offers classes for students of all ages through its Junior and Adult Sailing Programs. The Sailing School 's Classes are open to both non-members and members of the Club. Our Clubship has several great locations available to use for hosting parties, meetings, and weddings. Offering stellar views of both Chicago and Lake Michigan, our unique Clubship venue combined with our Chef's phenomenal food makes Columbia a perfect event location. The Membership is comprised of boat owners as well as non-boat owners, and we have Junior Members, Honorary Life Members, and everyone in between! Please email [email protected] for any inquiries about Columbia Yacht Club. …

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Columbia Yacht Club was an absolute dream as the venue for our wedding cocktail hour and reception! From the very beginning, Nick, the General Manager, was accommodating and supportive. His guidance throughout the planning process was invaluable--he was always available to answer questions, offer suggestions, and ensure that every detail was just right. We were also blown away by the food, thanks to their fantastic new chef, David Russell Jr.. Our guests couldn't stop raving about how delicious everything was, from the passed hors d'oeuvres during cocktail hour to the perfectly executed family-style dinner. The quality and presentation of the food truly exceeded our expectations and added a special touch to the evening. And, of course, the location itself is simply breathtaking. The views of the Chicago skyline and the lake are unbeatable, whether you're there for a casual night out or hosting a big event like we did. There's something magical about celebrating on the water, and Columbia Yacht Club provides the perfect setting for a memorable occasion. We couldn't be happier with our experience and highly recommend this venue for any member looking for an unforgettable event space!

See all photos from Perrell K. for Columbia Yacht Club

The Columbia Yacht Club was established in 1892 and has been based on the former ice-cutting Canadian ferry the MV Abegweit since 1983. I have visited this spot several times over the years since it has been freely accessible as an Open House Chicago venue (usually access is for Members Only). Poke around all the old ferry's interiors, some spaces are tight while others are a bit fancier. Enjoy the lovely views of Chicago from one of the decks.

See all photos from Bill M. for Columbia Yacht Club

Perfect location with an amazing view . We had a business lunch and the service and food was great . There's a huge cocktail menu and tons of things on the menu with options that are vegan , vegetarians and gluten free . We ate outside and then had a drink inside at the bar to cool down . Reminds me of an old school supper club .

View from lunch

One of my favorites in Chicago. My kids are members so it's an easy pace to visit for great service and excellent food. Sit outside on a warm night and enjoy the beautiful view. The bar is super fun on weekdays and they have a spectacular fireworks show on Saturday night. They have a broad menu that's sure to please everyone. They also have a beautiful tent for special events. Definitely try it!!

See all photos from Susan S. for Columbia Yacht Club

I was impressed with this place. Had a colleagues retirement party here. The staff was very professional, great with getting folks drinks and trays of food out. Even though the boat was docked it's a beautiful looking ship. The club chairs, wood, breezes off the lake.

See all photos from Grant A. for Columbia Yacht Club

I've been to Columbia Yacht Club many times for wedding, bday, date night and just get together with friends on random Tuesday night for $1 oysters stroll, I must say I've never been disappointed. Food here is average, atmosphere is above average and staff is just beyond words. We came with group of 20 for a private law school. Even though our event ended at 8pm staff was so friendly they kept the room open another two hours and didn't try to kick us out. They gave us boxes for take home on a catering event, allowed us to grab extra beer and wine before closing. We than moved the party from private room to main bar area which was just as fun and friendly. I think membership is definitely worth it if you're into boating and enjoy being in the water. I come for the ambiance, it's unbeatable.... someday I'll join as member till than thanks to all my awesome friends for the invite!

Fantastic food and everyone that works at the club make you feel like family. Best dining and social experience in Chicago.

This club-restaurant-indoor outdoor recreational space was just the best place to go on a warm May night. The view was spectacular, service thoughtful and food just right. i have a reciprocal membership with the Columbia Yacht Club and if I lived in Chicago, I would join in a minute. My wife had the best Vichyssoise and turkey burger, I had scrumptious and plentiful fajitas - no going hungry here! It was busy, but they seated us on time for our required reservation. What a unique and perfect place-best view of the city ever. Joe

We both had the deconstructed Paella. Don't get the deconstructed Paella it's not that good and borders on tasteless. Coincidentally, two weeks before this visit we were at a party where the hostess served Paella. Her dish was outstanding. The on-site sommelier is awesome! Make sure to ask for his assistance when choosing a beverage. Service is second to none at this location.

What a fun place. A friend took me while I am on a work trip and it was the treat/highlight of the trip. The facility is so cool and has a very low-key vibe. The decks seem so inviting - what a place to watch the lake, sunset, boating, birds and fireworks in summer. (BEST view of the fireworks - was kind of magical.) Dinner in the bar was loud and boisterous in a very good way. The waitstaff is OUTSTANDING - super friendly and charming and helpful. Food was pretty good for a boat! If I lived here, I'd want to be a member... tomorrow.

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Columbia Yacht Club Membership Cost

As a club that generates a great feeling of camaraderie and pride among its members, officials, and employees, Columbia Yacht Club was already known since 1892 and remains appreciated until now. Its members and people are united by their love of yachts and sailing. Who wouldn’t? Cruising, racing, power boating, or quietly enjoying the scenery from the Club, all of these activities can be enjoyed if you are a member!  It always feels like “Welcome Aboard” at Columbia Yacht Club, whether it’s for exquisite dancing underneath the skies on the Club Ship’s aft balcony or informal dock gatherings; from calm morning breakfasts to twilight dinners; from the excitement of crews preparing for races to tranquil nights anchored at the Club’s docks.

The costs and dues for joining are determined by the member’s age as well as membership classification. Current attendees pay $500 at the start of the Provisional year and $500 at the conclusion of the year while $250 for junior members who are 18-30 years old.

How much does it cost to join the Columbia Yacht Club?

Yacht Clubs can be very expensive, especially for a boat owner. These membership clubs are solely for the purpose of leisure, celebrations, recreational sailing and boat activities. If you are planning to join the Columbia Yacht Club, here’s the money you need to prepare!

The costs and dues for joining are determined by the member’s age as well as membership classification. The Columbia yacht club membership fees for current regular members cost $1000 – can be paid half by half on the provisional and conclusion of the year. For junior members (ages 18 to 30) on the other hand, $500 is the cost of joining. Can also be divided into two separate payments. Once turned 31, they will be considered a regular member and need to pay double. 

If you are a Permanent or Affiliate member, you have full access to all of Columbia Yacht Club’s amenities, including 24-hour access at the Club Ship, eating rights in the private dining room, as well as a bar and patio seating on the bow. There are also no additional fees for the Club’s conference rooms and event facilities. 

How much does a yacht membership cost?

There are many yacht clubs all around the nation that would be delighted to have you join them. In return for a good amount of money, you can spend a bit of time on the ocean with a gorgeous yacht, or learn more boat tips from expert members! 

The cost of a yacht club varies depending on the fleet, your location, and even the marina’s facilities. Based on your level of subscription, the estimated yearly membership cost is between $900 and $4,000. It also depends if you are a non-owner, and an owner of a yacht.

It’s a huge step in your existence to participate in a yacht club. This is a milestone in life. It signifies a particular level of accomplishment, something that you will take pride in. 

Yacht Clubs offers a wide range of opulent facilities. Setting sail on such a yacht is the greatest way to relax after a long work week. For sure, the level of things you may get from joining a club is totally worth your time and money! 

Columbia Yacht Club Cost vs. Chicago Yacht Club Cost

When it comes to Yacht clubs, there are two prominent ones in Chicago. The Chicago Yacht Club and Columbia Yacht Club. They both are based in the same location, and have their fair share of specialties and advantages. Read more to know the comparison between these two. 

Wondering which one to join in? Well, it actually depends on what matters to you. Chicago and Columbia Yacht Clubs are probably what we call rivals when it comes to Club memberships. 

The Chicago Yacht Club was established in 1875, 17 years before Columbia Yacht Club started. They are one of the first to promote the sport of yachting. Compared to ColYC, CYC focuses more on competitions and sports, making them notable in the industry. One of the things that made them popular was the CYC race to Mackinac- which is basically an annual race for sailors. 

Chicago Yacht Club (also known as CYC) advantages are its events and competition indeed. If you are someone who loves competition and being challenged, then CYC is a great choice. Columbia Yacht Club also hosts and manages events like Mackinac, but CYC definitely has the name when it comes to competitive sailing. 

CYC compared to ColYC has better and more advanced sailing facilities, as they want to make sure that their members interests and hobbies are satisfied. 

Columbia Yacht Club, on the other hand, is different and above the rest. Compared to the other Yacht Club, people and members here primarily stay for companionships. Its people, from employees, to members are very kind and welcoming. Their restaurants above water are exceptional from its structure up to interior.

If you are looking for a place to enjoy and interact, then this is the right club for you. ColYC has great people and employees, it takes pride in leisure and camaraderie. It has such great social exposure, and amazing food and ambience based on members and guests. 

Are yacht clubs worth it?

Yacht clubs are well worth the money and time commitment once you’ve found the correct one. When you participate in a yacht club, you may enjoy the companionship of knowledgeable boat owners who can assist you get launched on your new experiences in combination to racing and sailing.

Yacht clubs get a notoriety for being exceedingly pricey and elite, but they aren’t. The look of today’s yacht club is evolving, even though certain yacht clubs are still quite formal and cater primarily to the extremely wealthy. If you are someone who wants to start a journey in Sailing, currently with or without your own yacht, these Clubs will provide you the grasp, exposure, and experiences that you need.

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

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

Local or Less Exclusive Yacht Clubs

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

Mid-Range Yacht Clubs:

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

Prestigious or Exclusive Yacht Clubs

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

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

Additional Considerations

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

Bottom Line: Simply Ask If Interested

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

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

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

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

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

But how much do Yacht Club memberships generally cost?

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

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

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What Does Each Yacht Club Offer?

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

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

Charleston Yacht Club

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

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

Florida Yacht Club

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

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

Atlanta Yacht Club

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

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

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

Chicago Yacht Club

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

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

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California Yacht Club

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

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

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

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

What are the Cheapest Yacht Clubs?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Related Article: How Long Do Sailboats Last?

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

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

Amenities and Activities

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

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

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

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

Access to the Fleet

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

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

Are There any Additional Costs Besides the Membership Fees?

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

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

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

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

Is a Yacht Club Membership Right for You?

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

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Breaking Down All of Chicago’s Old-School Members-Only Clubs

If there’s one thing that rich people enjoy -- aside from making or inheriting more money -- it’s talking with other rich people about how they’re making or inheriting more money. And rich people can’t just do that anywhere , so whenever they’re not feeding caviar to their exotic iguanas or hunting the world’s most dangerous game (man), they’re hanging out in Chicago’s private membership clubs. Since you’re probably not getting in, we can give you a small glimpse inside.

Sky-Line Club

Loop Founded: 1924 Offering one of the best views in town, the Sky-Line Club sits atop the Old Republic Building, which HAS to be a Star Wars reference. Well, maybe. Inside, the club is actually pretty intimate (300 members max), and is only outfitted with 10 or so dining tables. The interior of the club was actually an old ale house located in England, but it was disassembled and shipped stateside about 100 years ago. Many of the furnishings and paintings are the originals from the ale house, which is pretty damn cool.

Metropolitan Club

Loop Founded: 1974 When you’re rich, taking two different elevators from your 90th-story office down to street level is a huge waste of time, which is also a waste of money. That’s just math. Fortunately, Willis Tower is outfitted with the Metropolitan Club, which is located on the 66th and 67th floors of the building, and totally nixes the need to leave the building for anything ever again. Members can just work, dine at the club, and sleep underneath their desks until the sweet kiss of death releases them from their mortal chains.

Union League Club

Loop Founded: 1879 The Union League Club aims to “uphold the sacred obligations of citizenship, promote honesty and efficiency in government, and support cultural institutions,” which also sounds like a fraternity pledge reciting memorized lines upon being cornered by a brother. The club has a fancy art collection on site, as well as some equally fancy dining options. Members also have access to other club locations when they’re traveling, but they’ll have to get spiffed up before arriving -- business-casual attire is required pretty much year-round.

Quadrangle Club

Hyde Park Founded: 1893 Located on the University of Chicago campus, the Quadrangle Club is kind of exclusive, but definitely not as exclusive as the Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants . However, unlike the Sisterhood, the Quadrangle Club offers access to dining facilities, event spaces, guest rooms, and three Har-Tru clay tennis courts. New members are not required to be faculty, staff, or betrothed to a European prince.  

The Cliff Dwellers

Loop Founded: 1907 Originally founded as the Attic Club, The Cliff Dwellers was renamed to its current iteration in 1909. Its membership base is made up of those who are “either professionally engaged in, or who support, the fine arts and the performing arts.” The club is located in the 22nd-floor penthouse of a building on Michigan and Adams, which makes for some pretty slick digs in which to lounge around in, dine, and discuss plans on how to circumnavigate the globe in a private blimp.

Columbia Yacht Club

Loop Founded: 1892 At the Columbia Yacht Club, membership levels are basically divided between those who have interest in a yacht that’s moored within 35 miles of the club, those who do not, and those who are under the age of 21. Since the club itself is located on an actual ship, it doesn’t have some of the amenities of other clubs -- like an on-site fixer who will hide dead bodies for you. However, membership does include 24/7 access to the Club Ship, dining privileges, use of meeting rooms, and privileges at yacht clubs around the world.  

University Club of Chicago

Loop Founded: 1887 Established by University of Chicago graduates who were looking to “draw upon the sustaining values of a common educational experience,” the University Club of Chicago currently admits members from other four-year schools, as long as they’ve obtained their degree and drank the blood of a pale mare under the full moon. You know: the basics. Once admitted, new members have access to an impressive variety of amenities, which include four dining venues, 18 private dining rooms, 59 sleeping rooms, a fully equipped fitness center with an indoor pool, golf center, and squash program, an art gallery, a library, and an outdoor terrace that’s perfect for enjoying summer drinks and throwing water balloons on poor people below.

Mid-America Club

Loop Founded: 1958 Part of the same network as the Metropolitan Club, the Mid-America Club also offers a hideaway for employees inside the towering Aon building, as well as scenic views of adjacent Maggie Daley Park and Millennium Park. Membership includes invites to special events, access to dining and business facilities, access to other club locations, and a magic duck that lays golden eggs (just kidding, we’re pretty sure we are, anyway).

The Standard Club

Loop Founded: 1869 The oldest membership club on this list, The Standard Club gathers “entrepreneurs, agents of change, corporate decision-makers, cultural advocates, and business visionaries” who are interested in civic responsibility, and probably also betting on ostrich races. Besides access to the fitness center, guest rooms, and dining facilities, members can drop by to dine at the Chicago Yacht Club, or golf and dine at Idlewild Country Club. As for that fitness center, it’s equipped with an indoor pool, a running track, a basketball court, paddleball courts, and sauna and steam rooms.

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When asked for a password to a private club, Raf always replies with “Fidelio.” Send him an invite to your club: @RafFoSho .