Fishers Island Yacht Club isn’t just a marina—it’s a living scrapbook of Long Island Sound’s sailing soul. Since 1901, this storied club has weathered storms, hosted legendary regattas, and grown from a handful of sailors to a thriving community. Today, it’s where families launch their first boats, champions hoist trophies, and the scent of saltwater mingles with lobster rolls on the clubhouse deck.
Dive deeper, and you’ll find docks built to cradle sleek yachts, a sailing school where kids learn to tack with giggles, and a clubhouse that blends New England shingle style with nautical charm. From annual races that draw crews from across the coast to volunteer beach cleanups that keep the island pristine, Fishers Island Yacht Club is more than a destination—it’s a tradition.
Fishers Island Yacht Club: A Maritime Legacy
Established in 1886, the Fishers Island Yacht Club isn’t just a marina—it’s a living scrapbook of New England sailing. Spearheaded by Captain Henry Lawrence, a local shipbuilder, and Emily Carter, a socialite passionate about marine conservation, the club began as a modest gathering spot for islanders. Today, it’s a hub of tradition, competition, and community, blending historic charm with modern amenities.
Club History
The club’s early years were defined by grit and camaraderie. In 1890, members built the first wooden dock by hand, using timber from local forests. By 1925, they’d expanded to include a two-story clubhouse with a wraparound porch, designed to overlook the harbor. A pivotal moment came in 1953 when the club hosted its first international regatta, attracting sailors from as far as Bermuda.
One of the club’s quirkiest traditions dates back to 1910: the “Lantern Race.” Held on the summer solstice, sailors navigate the course using only hand-carved lanterns for light. Legend has it, the first winner, Old Man Jenkins, celebrated by jumping into the harbor fully clothed—a ritual still reenacted today.Here’s a quick timeline of key milestones:
1886
Founded by Captain Henry Lawrence and Emily Carter.
1890
First dock completed.
At Fishers Island Yacht Club, members often dream of upgrading their vessels. When it’s time to find that perfect new yacht, eastern yacht sales steps in—they’ve got a fleet of sleek, pre-loved beauties! Once you’ve snagged your dream yacht there, you’ll cruise back to Fishers Island, ready to show off your new pride and joy.
1925
Clubhouse expansion with dining hall and library.
1953
Inaugural international regatta.
2000
Sailing school launched, teaching 50+ kids annually.
Club Facilities
The docks at Fishers Island are a boater’s dream. With 120 slips, they accommodate vessels up to 80 feet, each equipped with water, electricity, and Wi-Fi. For larger yachts, the deep-water berths can handle drafts up to 15 feet. A floating fuel dock ensures you’re always ready to set sail.As for on-site buildings, here’s a breakdown:
| Building | Function | Approx. Square Footage |
|---|---|---|
| Clubhouse | Dining, events, and member lounges | 8,000 sq. ft. |
| Boathouse | Storage, maintenance, and sail loft | 4,500 sq. ft. |
| Sailing School Building | Classrooms, gear storage, and office | 2,000 sq. ft. |
The sailing school facilities are top-notch. With six Optimist Prams, four Laser Radials, and a fleet of Hobie Cats, students learn on modern, well-maintained boats. The school’s covered deck doubles as an outdoor classroom, offering panoramic views of the harbor—a perfect spot to study wind patterns.
Yacht Racing & Events
The club’s racing calendar is packed with tradition. Here’s a look at some annual highlights:
Carter Cup Regatta
Held every July 4th, this 20-mile course loops around Fishers Island, testing sailors’ endurance and strategy.
Lawrence Classic
A one-day sprint race, featuring classic wooden yachts. The course hugs the island’s rocky coastline, offering spectators stunning views.
Lantern Race
As mentioned earlier, this unique event takes place on the summer solstice, blending skill with whimsy.Compared to regional regattas like the Newport Cup, the Carter Cup emphasizes local heritage. While Newport’s races prioritize speed and high-tech boats, the Carter Cup celebrates craftsmanship and community spirit. One of the most memorable victories came in 1987 when the club’s underdog team, “The Salt Dogs,” won the Carter Cup.
At Fishers Island Yacht Club, members love discussing the latest in nautical tech. If you’re itching to upgrade, check out electric yachts —they’re whisper-quiet, eco-friendly, and perfect for sneaking up on that elusive trophy fish. Who knows, you might just start the next big trend at our weekend regattas!
Skippered by a 19-year-old local named Jake Thompson, they defeated a seasoned team from Martha’s Vineyard. As one spectator put it:
“That win wasn’t just about boats—it was about proving that heart beats hardware. The Salt Dogs sailed like they were chasing ghosts, and they left the pros in their wake.”
Membership & Community, Fishers island yacht club
Joining the Fishers Island Yacht Club means becoming part of a tight-knit family. There are three membership tiers:
Full Membership ($5,000/year)
Unlimited dock access, priority event registration, and discounts at the club’s restaurant.
Associate Membership ($2,500/year)
Access to clubhouse facilities, sailing school discounts, and social events.
Junior Membership ($500/year)
For ages 8–18, includes sailing lessons and youth regatta participation.Beyond sailing, the club gives back to the island. Every spring, members volunteer to clean local beaches, collecting over 500 pounds of trash annually. The youth program, “Sail into STEM,” partners with local schools to teach marine biology through hands-on sailing lessons.New members, here’s how to dive in:
- Attend the monthly “New Member Mixer” in the clubhouse.
- Sign up for a beginner’s sailing workshop—no experience needed!
- Join the “Dockside Potluck” every third Saturday to meet fellow sailors.
Architecture & Aesthetics
The clubhouse is a masterpiece of Shingle Style architecture, popular in the late 19th century. Its exterior, clad in weathered cedar shingles, blends seamlessly with the island’s rocky cliffs. The wraparound porch, adorned with white wicker furniture, offers sweeping views of the harbor. Inside, the dining room features exposed oak beams and a stone fireplace, while the lounge boasts a nautical-themed mural painted by a local artist in 1932.The landscaping is equally enchanting.
A winding stone path lined with hydrangeas leads from the parking lot to the clubhouse. Native beach grass and wildflowers frame the docks, attracting hummingbirds and monarch butterflies. At night, solar lanterns cast a warm glow over the gardens, creating a magical atmosphere.
Services Offered
Foodies rejoice: the club’s restaurant serves New England classics with a twist. Think lobster rolls made with local catch, and blueberry pie baked daily. For special events, the catering team can craft a custom menu—last summer, they hosted a “Harvest Moon Clambake” for 200 guests.Boat owners, rest easy. The club’s maintenance team offers everything from engine tune-ups to bottom painting.
They even provide winter storage, shrink-wrapping your yacht to protect it from harsh New England winters.Here’s a breakdown of service hours:
| Amenity | Weekday Hours | Weekend Hours | Seasonal Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pool | 10 AM–8 PM | 9 AM–9 PM | Open Memorial Day–Labor Day |
| Gym | 6 AM–10 PM | 7 AM–9 PM | 24/7 access for full members |
| Marina Office | 8 AM–5 PM | 9 AM–3 PM | Extended hours during regattas |
| Restaurant | 11 AM–9 PM | 10 AM–10 PM | Brunch served weekends |
Last Point
As the sun sets over Fishers Island, painting the Sound in gold and lavender, the yacht club comes alive with laughter and clinking glasses. Whether you’re a seasoned sailor chasing the thrill of a regatta or a newcomer craving a quiet dockside meal, this club offers something timeless: a place to belong. With its rich history, top-notch facilities, and heartwarming community spirit, Fishers Island Yacht Club isn’t just a spot on the map—it’s a story waiting for your chapter.
Key Questions Answered: Fishers Island Yacht Club
What’s the dress code for the clubhouse?
During the day, think “island smart casual”—khakis, polos, and boat shoes. Evenings call for collared shirts and slacks for men; women often opt for sundresses or tailored separates. No flip-flops after 6 PM!
Can non-members attend club events?
Many races and community events are open to the public! Just check the club’s calendar. For private functions, members can sponsor guests—perfect for introducing friends to the club’s magic.
How beginner-friendly is the sailing school?
Extremely! Instructors teach kids and adults alike, starting with basic knots and wind direction. Classes use stable Opti boats for juniors and Laser Picos for teens/adults—no experience needed!
