columbia yacht club vs chicago yacht club

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Discover the Best Yacht Clubs in Chicago: A Guide for Sailing Enthusiasts

Table of Contents

Introduction

Yacht clubs have been a popular pastime for sailing and boating enthusiasts for decades. They offer a sense of community, access to resources, and a variety of recreational and social opportunities. And when it comes to yacht clubs, few places in the United States can match the beauty and charm of Chicago. Situated on the shores of Lake Michigan, the Windy City boasts a number of high-quality yacht clubs that are worth considering if you’re looking to join one. In this article, we’ll explore the top yacht clubs in Chicago and what makes them stand out from the competition. Whether you’re an experienced sailor or just getting started, there’s sure to be a club that’s perfect for you.

Benefits of joining a yacht club in Chicago

Joining a yacht club in Chicago offers a wealth of benefits for sailing and boating enthusiasts. 

Access to sailing and boating resources

Yacht clubs typically offer a wide range of resources for boaters, including docks, slips, moorings, and storage facilities. They may also provide access to specialized equipment and services, such as sail repair or boat cleaning.

Opportunities to meet like-minded individuals and form a community

One of the most appealing aspects of joining a yacht club is the chance to meet other sailing and boating enthusiasts. By joining a club, you’ll become part of a community of people who share your passion for the water. Many clubs organize social events, races, and other activities that offer opportunities to connect with other members.

Social events and networking opportunities

Yacht clubs often host a variety of social events, ranging from casual gatherings to formal galas. These events provide a chance to socialize with other members and network with fellow boating enthusiasts. You may also be able to take advantage of club facilities, such as dining rooms or bars, for private events.

Access to dining and recreational facility

 Many yacht clubs offer dining facilities, ranging from casual cafes to fine dining restaurants. Some also have recreational facilities, such as swimming pools, tennis courts, or fitness centers. These amenities can provide a welcome break from the water and make your club membership even more valuable.

Other potential benefits depending on the specific yacht club

Yacht clubs vary widely in terms of their facilities, programs, and offerings. Some may specialize in a particular type of boating, such as racing or cruising. Others may have extensive training programs, youth programs, or charitable initiatives. When evaluating a club, be sure to consider all of the benefits it offers to determine if it’s a good fit for you.

Criteria for evaluating yacht clubs in Chicago

If you’re considering joining a yacht club in Chicago, there are several criteria you should keep in mind when evaluating your options.

Location and proximity to water

The location of the yacht club is a critical factor to consider, as it will affect how easily and frequently you’re able to access the water. Look for clubs that are located near the lakefront or other bodies of water, and that offer easy access to boating facilities.

Facilities and amenities

The facilities and amenities offered by the yacht club can make a big difference in your overall experience. Look for clubs that offer well-maintained facilities, such as docks, storage areas, and dining areas. Also, consider what types of amenities the club offers, such as swimming pools, fitness centers, or tennis courts.

Membership costs and requirements

The cost of joining a yacht club can vary widely, so it’s important to consider your budget and what you can afford. Be sure to ask about membership fees, annual dues, and any other costs associated with membership. Additionally, some clubs may have specific requirements for membership, such as a minimum number of sailing hours or a certain level of experience.

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Size of the club and number of members 

The size of the yacht club can impact your experience in a number of ways. Smaller clubs may offer a more intimate and exclusive atmosphere, while larger clubs may offer more opportunities for socializing and networking. Additionally, the number of members at the club can affect the availability of resources and facilities.

Quality of instruction and training programs

If you’re new to sailing or boating, or if you’re looking to improve your skills, you’ll want to consider the quality of instruction and training programs offered by the club. Look for clubs that offer a range of training programs and that have experienced and knowledgeable instructors.

By considering these criteria when evaluating yacht clubs in Chicago, you’ll be better equipped to make an informed decision and find the club that’s right for you.

Top yacht clubs in Chicago

Chicago is home to a variety of high-quality yacht clubs, each with its own unique features and offerings. Here are some of the top yacht clubs in Chicago:

Chicago Yacht Club

Established in 1875, the Chicago Yacht Club is one of the oldest and most prestigious yacht clubs in the United States. With two locations in the city (Monroe Harbor and Belmont Harbor), the club offers a range of programs and facilities for sailors of all ages and skill levels. Members enjoy access to dining facilities, social events, and training programs.

Columbia Yacht Club

Housed in a historic former freighter docked on the Chicago River, the Columbia Yacht Club offers a unique and picturesque setting for sailors and boaters. Members enjoy access to dockage, storage, and maintenance facilities, as well as dining and social events.

Jackson Park Yacht Club

Located on the south side of the city, the Jackson Park Yacht Club offers a welcoming and inclusive community for sailors of all backgrounds. Members enjoy access to sailing facilities, training programs, and social events.

Burnham Park Yacht Club

Situated in the heart of the city, the Burnham Park Yacht Club offers a convenient location for sailors and boaters. Members enjoy access to dockage, storage, and maintenance facilities, as well as training programs and social events.

Chicago Corinthian Yacht Club

Founded in 1934, the Chicago Corinthian Yacht Club is a family-oriented club that offers a range of programs and facilities for sailors of all ages and skill levels. Members enjoy access to sailing facilities, training programs, and social events, as well as junior sailing programs and other family-friendly activities.

These are just a few of the many yacht clubs in Chicago worth considering. By exploring their unique features and offerings, you’ll be able to find the club that’s best suited to your interests and needs.

Honorable Mentions

Although these yacht clubs didn’t make it into the top three, they are still noteworthy options to consider.

Jackson Park Yacht Club 

Established in 1899, this club is located on the south side of Chicago and boasts a friendly and welcoming atmosphere. The club offers access to Lake Michigan and hosts a variety of events and races throughout the sailing season. While the facilities are a bit outdated, the club makes up for it with its active community of members.

Chicago Corinthian Yacht Club 

Located in Montrose Harbor, this club is known for its strong racing program and active social scene. The club also offers a range of classes and training programs for sailors of all skill levels. However, the club is relatively small compared to some of the other options on this list, which may limit some of the amenities and resources available to members.

Columbia Yacht Club 

This club is unique in that it is housed in a historic former freighter ship, the MV Abegweit. The club offers a range of sailing and social events throughout the season and provides easy access to the downtown Chicago area. However, membership fees can be quite steep, and the club’s facilities may feel cramped compared to other options.

While these clubs didn’t make it into the top three, they each have their own unique features and offerings that may appeal to certain individuals. Consider visiting each one and speaking with members to determine which club is the best fit for you.

In conclusion, joining a yacht club in Chicago is an excellent way for sailing and boating enthusiasts to access resources, build a community, and enjoy the waterways of Lake Michigan. In this article, we’ve explored the top yacht clubs in Chicago and what makes them stand out from the competition.

From the welcoming and inclusive atmosphere of Burnham Park Yacht Club to the stunning views and top-notch facilities at Chicago Yacht Club, there are many excellent options to choose from. We’ve also highlighted a few honorable mentions, each with their own unique offerings and benefits.

No matter which club you choose, joining a yacht club in Chicago is a fantastic way to connect with like-minded individuals, learn new skills, and enjoy the beauty of Lake Michigan. We encourage readers to check out the top yacht clubs mentioned in this article and consider joining one to experience all that Chicago’s sailing community has to offer.

For more information on Yachts, we suggest reading this article !

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• Discover the Top 6 Yacht Clubs in San Diego for Boaters

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Columbia Yacht Club

111 N. Lake Shore Dr.

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Since 1892, Columbia Yacht Club has been celebrated as one of Chicago's premier boating clubs and sailing organizations. It is located where Randolph Street meets the Lake Michigan shoreline. In the winter of 1982-83, Columbia Yacht Club purchased the MV Abegweit, a 372-foot, 7,000-ton train ferry from Canada. Its lower level held railcars and motor vehicles during the ship's service on the Northumberland Straight from 1947 to 1982. The ferry now serves as the club ship and headquarters. Once the most powerful icebreaking ship in the world, "Abby" remains "in service" today as an exclusive dining room and event space that offers unparalleled views of the Chicago harbor, skyline and Grant Park.

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Sam's Club just unlocked a new perk to being a Plus Member: Free delivery from club

By Fox Van Allen

Edited By Leslie Gornstein

Updated on: August 20, 2024 / 4:31 PM EDT / Essentials

CBS Essentials is created independently of the CBS News editorial staff. We may receive commissions from some links to products on this page. Promotions are subject to availability and retailer terms.

This content is sponsored by Sam's Club.

Attention Sam's Club Members and those who are thinking about becoming Sam's Club Members : The membership club just unlocked a great new benefit for you. Starting on August 19, 2024, Club Members can get free curbside pickup on orders of $50 or more. Sam's Club Plus Members will get a new perk too: free delivery from club on orders of $50 or more.

These changes make your local Sam's Club a more convenient place to shop than ever before.

What are all the Sam's Club membership benefit changes?

Here's a full list of what's changing at Sam's Club on August 19, 2024.

Changes for Club Members:

• Starting August 19, Club Members will get free curbside pickup on orders of $50 or more.
• Sam's Club will continue to offer delivery from club to Club Members for a $12 fee, with no minimums.

Changes for Plus Members:

• Starting August 19, Plus Members will get free delivery from club on eligible orders of $50 or more. Get delivery same day (order by 1 p.m.) or next day. Need it faster? Try Express delivery for an extra $8.

Are there markups on Sam's Club delivery from club orders?

No. Unlike at other membership clubs, Sam's Club Members pay the same price whether they're shopping in-club or ordering for delivery from club. Instant Savings are automatically applied. Note, however, that Plus Members do not earn Sam's Cash on delivery orders.

How does Sam's Club curbside pickup work?

Want to give your new Sam's Club free curbside pickup perk a try, Club Members?

Sam's Club curbside pickup is really easy to use. Just start your order in the Sam's Club app and choose pickup at checkout. Remember, there's no fee if your order is $50 or more (pre-tax). When your order is ready, park in one of the designated curbside pickup parking spots at Sam's Club and check in online or by text. A Sam's Club staff member will load your order in your vehicle for you.

Can't get to Sam's Club yourself? You can assign a designated pickup person to get your order for you at your local Sam's Club.

How close do you need to live to a Sam's Club to get at-home delivery?

Sam's Club currently offers at-home delivery to residences within a 15-mile radius of a club location. The company notes that it's working to expand its delivery radius.

Last chance to join Sam's Club for $20 in August

Sam's Club is offering a August membership deal right now, but time is running out. New members can join at the Club level for just $20 for your first year. That's a savings of 60% off the usual $50 yearly membership fee. Note that you'll need to be a  new  Sam's Club member, and you'll need to opt in to auto-renew.

This is a limited-time offer, ending Aug. 23, 2024. So tap the button below to sign up for Sam's Club now at the discounted $20 rate.

Why you should upgrade to Sam's Club Plus

There are a lot of perks to a Sam's Club membership, but there are even more when you  upgrade to Sam's Club Plus . You'll get free shipping and fresh grocery delivery from club on eligible orders of $50 or more, free curbside pickup, 2% Sam's Cash back on qualifying purchases (up to $500 back per year), free select generic prescriptions and 20% off eyeglasses. Sam's Club Plus members can also shop sales before other Sam's Club members. Terms apply. See the Sam's Club site for more details.

The wholesale club also has a deal for anyone who wants to become a Sam's Club Plus Member. Right now, you can get $50 off a Sam's Club Plus membership. That brings the annual price down to $60.

Again, note that you'll need to be a new member and opt in to auto-renew to score this deal. This offer ends Aug. 23, 2024.

Managing editor Fox Van Allen is an expert in tech, laptops and computers, toys and video games for CBS Essentials. When he's not writing about (or playing) the Nintendo Switch and PS5, Fox's hobbies include reality TV podcasting, designing board games and hanging out in his favorite warehouse stores.

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Royal Caribbean reveals details about second Icon Class ship, Star of the Seas

The world’s biggest cruise ship is about to get a sibling.

Royal Caribbean International revealed new details about its second Icon Class vessel, Star of the Seas, on Tuesday. The ship will set sail from Florida’s Port Canaveral near Orlando in August 2025.

“Us really bringing the world's best family vacation to one of the world's best family markets felt like a natural synergy,” Jay Schneider, chief product innovation officer and senior vice president for the line's parent company Royal Caribbean Group , told USA TODAY.

The ship’s onboard offerings will build on what has resonated with guests on Icon of the Seas since it debuted in January – with some twists.

“One thing about this class is the class is coming out very fast, and it doesn't give you a whole lot of time to adjust,” said Schneider. “And so we wanted to learn as much as we could about what is successful on Icon as we kind of look ahead to Star.”

Where will Star of the Seas sail?

The 5,610-guest ship will operate seven-night Caribbean cruises, including destinations like Basseterre, St. Kitts and Nevis, Cozumel in Mexico and San Juan, Puerto Rico. Every cruise will also stop at the Royal Caribbean’s Bahamas private island, Perfect Day at CocoCay .

What can passengers expect?

The ship, a sister vessel to Icon, will include many of its familiar spaces, from the Category 6 water park to the enclosed glass-and-steel AquaDome and the adults-only Hideaway pool and lounge area. There will also be more than 40 dining and beverage options.

For comparison, Star – like Icon – will have 20 decks and measure 1,196 feet long, while Royal Caribbean's newest Oasis Class ship, Utopia of the Seas , has 18 decks and measures 1,188 feet.

But Star will feature new takes on some features that launched on Icon. Empire Supper Club, an intimate space serving multi-course meals with live entertainment, will be reimagined as the 1930s Chicago-inspired Lincoln Park Supper Club. The “eatertainment” venue was always envisioned as an evolving concept, Schneider said.

“So, Icon is New York, Star will be Chicago, and once we get to Icon three, which we haven't released the name of yet, (it) will be Hollywood,” he said. “And so we're following the sun as we create this class.”

The line will make similar adjustments to some family-focused programming, such as its Adventure Ocean kids club . Even as the line has offered increasingly advanced gaming technology, children have also requested more analog options like foosball and ping pong. Icon’s Surfside neighborhood, originally designed with kids six and younger in mind, has proven popular with children as old as 10 and will cater to a wider range of ages on Star.

Royal Caribbean is also concept-testing new cuisine types for AquaDome Market, the line’s food hall that serves Mediterranean fare, crepes and more on Icon.

Schneider noted that like Icon’s Chief Dog Officer Rover, a golden retriever who makes appearances to “surprise and delight” guests, Star will have its own resident canine named Sailor (likely of the same breed). “So Rover is excited to have a sibling, who hopefully they'll be able to meet on Perfect Day at CocoCay.”

The line will roll out new technology onboard, too. A waterproof bracelet that allows parents to track where their kids are via the cruise line’s app will be available, following a pilot on Icon this summer. Schneider said the cruise line has also been working on facial-recognition stateroom doors “for a while,” and expects them to be piloted onboard Star.

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How much does Star of the Seas cost?

Prices vary by sailing date, room category and other factors, but 2025 cruises currently start at between $1,654 and $1,705 per person based on double occupancy. Fares include many meals on board, drinks like regular coffee and lemonade and more.

Nathan Diller is a consumer travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Nashville. You can reach him at [email protected].