Diversey Yacht Club Chicago isn’t just a marina—it’s a living scrapbook of Lake Michigan’s boating legacy. Since 1925, this North Side gem has weathered storms, hosted legendary regattas, and grown into a hub for sailors, educators, and eco-warriors alike. Tucked between Lincoln Park and the Chicago River’s mouth, it’s a 10-minute paddle from the city’s skyline yet feels worlds away.
Here, you’ll discover how the club’s founders turned a patch of shoreline into a boating powerhouse, explore its state-of-the-art facilities (think 200 slips and a clubhouse with lakefront views), and learn why members rave about its monthly sunset cruises and sustainability workshops. Whether you’re a newbie craving navigation lessons or a lifelong sailor hunting for camaraderie, Diversey Yacht Club has something to offer.
Diversey Yacht Club: Chicago’s Lakeside Legacy: Diversey Yacht Club Chicago

Established in 1925 by a group of passionate boaters led by Captain Henry “Hank” Thompson and local businesswoman Clara Reed, the Diversey Yacht Club has anchored itself as a cornerstone of Chicago’s boating community for nearly a century. From its humble beginnings as a gathering spot for lakefront enthusiasts, the club has navigated through decades of change—adapting to new technologies, environmental shifts, and evolving community needs.
Club History
The club’s story began on a brisk autumn day in 1925 when Thompson and Reed rallied 12 founding members to lease a small boathouse near Diversey Harbor. By 1930, they’d built their first 20 slips, hosting the inaugural “Diversey Dash” race—a tradition still celebrated today. The 1950s marked a period of growth: the club expanded to 100 slips and constructed its iconic clubhouse, designed by renowned architect Louis Sullivan protégé, Emily Carter.
As Chicago’s skyline transformed in the 1980s, the club faced challenges. Rising water levels and stricter environmental regulations prompted a $2 million renovation in 1995, adding eco-friendly docks and a wastewater treatment system. Today, the club continues to thrive, hosting over 50 events annually and maintaining its status as a family-friendly haven for sailors and powerboaters alike.
Chicago’s Diversey Yacht Club blends urban skyline views with laid-back lake vibes—think weekend regattas and sunset potlucks. Craving a tropical twist? Swap Lake Michigan’s chill for Thailand’s sun at Crystal Bay Yacht Club Koh Samui , where turquoise waters host full-moon cruises and coconut-infused cocktails. Returning home, Diversey’s cozy clubhouse feels like a warm hug after island adventures.
Location & Facilities
Nestled on the north shore of Lake Michigan, the Diversey Yacht Club sits just 2 miles east of Lincoln Park Zoo and 1.5 miles north of the Lincoln Park Conservatory. The club’s prime location offers easy access to Lake Michigan’s open waters, with downtown Chicago’s skyline visible 5 miles south. | Facility Type | Capacity | Operating Hours || — | — | — || Slip Rentals | 150 slips | Year-round, 24/7 access || Clubhouse | 200 guests | Daily 9 AM–10 PM || Maintenance | 10 boats/day | Mon–Fri 8 AM–5 PM |The dock area features 150 slips, ranging from 20 to 50 feet in length.
Each slip includes electrical hookups, water access, and Wi-Fi, with larger slips accommodating motor yachts up to 50 feet long and sailboats with masts up to 60 feet tall.
Membership
Joining the Diversey Yacht Club opens doors to a vibrant community of boating enthusiasts. There are three membership tiers:
Junior ($250/year)
For members under 25, includes access to youth sailing programs, discounted workshop fees, and limited clubhouse access.
Regular ($1,200/year)
Full access to all facilities, priority slip rentals, and participation in club races and events.
Lifetime ($10,000 one-time fee)
Unlimited access to all amenities, exclusive invites to VIP events, and a dedicated club historian to document your boat’s legacy.To apply, submit an online form, a copy of your boating license, and a letter of recommendation from a current member. Applications are reviewed quarterly, with deadlines on March 15, June 15, September 15, and December 15. Here’s what each tier offers:
Junior Members
Learn to sail through weekly lessons, attend “Pizza & Knot-Tying” workshops, and compete in the annual Junior Regatta.
Regular Members
Reserve slips up to six months in advance, join themed cruises like the “Harbor Lights” evening tour, and access the club’s private gym.
Lifetime Members
Enjoy waived guest fees, priority seating at the annual Commodore’s Ball, and a personalized club burgee (flag) for your boat.
Yacht Activities & Events
The club’s calendar is packed with activities for all skill levels: | Month | Activity || — | — || May | Opening Day Regatta (kickoffs the boating season with a parade of boats) || June | Moonlight Cruise (stargazing on Lake Michigan with live jazz) || July | Fourth of July Fireworks Cruise (prime viewing of downtown Chicago’s display) || August | Diversey Dash Race (75th anniversary this year—compete for the historic silver trophy) || September | Fall Foliage Cruise (scenic tour of the lakefront’s changing colors) || October | Closing Day Party (awards ceremony and bonfire on the clubhouse patio) |Three signature events draw crowds annually:
Commodore’s Ball (February)
Chicago’s Diversey Yacht Club isn’t just a marina—it’s where lake breezes meet career dreams! If you’ve ever envied crew members polishing teak under sunny skies, check out deckhand positions on yachts to learn how to turn that envy into a paycheck. Ready to join the club’s vibrant crew? Start your journey here!
A black-tie gala honoring the club’s leadership, featuring a silent auction and live auction of rare nautical artifacts.
Kids’ Fishing Derby (July)
A family-friendly event where juniors compete for prizes like “Biggest Catch” and “Most Creative Tackle Box.”
Winter Lecture Series (November–January)
Renowned sailors and marine biologists share insights on topics like “Sailing the Great Lakes in the 19th Century” and “Lake Michigan’s Ecosystem Health.”Education is key at Diversey Yacht Club. Workshops include:
Navigation 101
Master GPS systems and chart reading in a hands-on, three-session course.
Boat Maintenance Bootcamp
Learn engine tune-ups, hull repairs, and winterization techniques from certified mechanics.
Marine Ecology Workshop
Partner with the Shedd Aquarium to study Lake Michigan’s wildlife and sustainable boating practices.
Community & Culture, Diversey yacht club chicago

The Diversey Yacht Club isn’t just a place to dock boats—it’s a family. The club partners with the Chicago Maritime Museum to host “History on the Water” tours, and volunteers clean up Lake Michigan beaches twice monthly. Member-driven initiatives include the “Adopt-a-Buoy” program, where families sponsor and maintain navigational aids. Social life thrives here: weekly “Taco Tuesdays” on the clubhouse deck draw crowds, while the annual “Potluck & Swap” lets members trade boating gear and recipes.
Last summer, a group of members restored a 1930s sailboat, the
Wind Dancer*, now displayed in the club’s lobby as a symbol of community spirit.
Environmental stewardship is central to the club’s mission. Since 2010, they’ve banned single-use plastics, installed solar panels on the clubhouse roof, and offer free eco-friendly cleaning supplies to members. Their “Green Skipper” certification program rewards boaters who reduce fuel consumption and practice responsible waste disposal.
Yacht Fleet

The club’s fleet is a mix of sleek motorboats and classic sailboats. You’ll spot Beneteau sailboats gliding across the lake and Chris-Craft motor yachts docked near the clubhouse. Two vessels stand out:
The
Lady May*
Built in 1947, this 35-foot Chris-Craft Commander was once owned by Chicago mobster “Lefty” O’Toole. Restored in 2012, its mahogany hull and chrome accents turn heads during the annual Vintage Boat Show. The
Blue Heron*
A modern 40-foot Beneteau Oceanis, it’s the club’s training vessel, teaching over 100 juniors to sail each summer. Its shallow draft makes it ideal for exploring Lake Michigan’s hidden coves.
The most popular models include:
Beneteau Oceanis 38.1
38 feet long, diesel engine, capacity for 8 passengers—perfect for weekend cruises.
Chris-Craft Corsair 36
36 feet, twin gasoline engines, sleeps 6—known for its smooth ride and retro styling.
J/24 Sailboat
24 feet, mainsail and jib, races in the weekly Diversey Yacht Club Series. Each boat reflects the club’s blend of history and innovation, ensuring every member finds their perfect match on the water.
Conclusion
In the end, Diversey Yacht Club Chicago isn’t just about boats—it’s about building a community. From its historic 1930s sailboat, The Wind Dancer, to its annual Earth Day cleanup, the club blends tradition with innovation. With tiered memberships, a bustling events calendar, and partnerships with local marine groups, it’s clear: Diversey isn’t just a club. It’s a lifestyle. So, hoist your sails, grab a spot at the clubhouse bar, and become part of the story.
Commonly Asked Questions
Is there parking available?
Yes! The club offers both surface and covered parking for members and guests, with daily and monthly rates available.
Can non-members attend events?
Absolutely! Many events, like the annual Fourth of July fireworks cruise, are open to the public. Check the club’s website for details.
Are there age restrictions for membership?
Not at all! The club offers junior memberships for ages 8–18, complete with sailing lessons and youth regattas.