Imagine pulling into Federal Point Yacht Club’s sunlit marina, where classic sailboats bob beside sleek motor yachts. Established in 1952, this coastal gem has grown from a handful of passionate sailors to a vibrant community of 500 members. But what truly sets it apart? Let’s dive in.
From its storied past—marked by a 1985 clubhouse expansion that now hosts lobster bakes and holiday galas—to its state-of-the-art marina with 150 slips for vessels up to 60 feet, the club offers more than just boating. Here, kids aged 8–18 learn to tack in the Junior Sailing Program, while adults unwind at themed parties like “Pirate Night.” Beyond the water, partnerships with local schools and environmental groups underscore its commitment to community.
Whether you’re a seasoned racer or a newbie craving camaraderie, Federal Point Yacht Club promises a slice of coastal magic.
Federal Point Yacht Club: A Maritime Haven with a Rich Legacy
Established in 1952, the Federal Point Yacht Club emerged from a group of passionate sailors’ shared dream to create a community centered around the love of the sea. What began as a small gathering of enthusiasts has blossomed into a vibrant club that blends maritime tradition with modern amenities.
Club History
The club’s founding was spurred by a tight-knit group of local sailors who craved a dedicated space to dock their boats, share sailing stories, and host races. Among the original members was Captain Henry “Hank” Thompson, a WWII veteran whose nautical expertise shaped the club’s early sailing programs. His motto, “The wind is your guide, but camaraderie is your anchor,” still resonates today.
Over the decades, the club has grown in both size and stature. Here’s a look at some of its major milestones:
| Year | Milestone Description |
|---|---|
| 1952 | Founded by a group of 12 local sailors, operating from a makeshift dock on Federal Point. |
| 1965 | Completed the first clubhouse expansion, adding a small restaurant and locker rooms. |
| 1980 | Hosted its inaugural Bluewater Regatta, attracting 50 boats from across the East Coast. |
| 2005 | Expanded the marina to 200 slips, accommodating vessels up to 60 feet. |
| 2018 | Renovated the clubhouse to include a modern lounge and event space. |
Club Facilities
The Federal Point Yacht Club’s marina is a boater’s paradise, offering a range of features tailored to every sailor’s needs:
- 200 Slips: Accommodating sailboats, motorboats, and yachts up to 60 feet in length.
- Full-Service Fuel Dock: Open daily from 8 AM–6 PM, offering ethanol-free gasoline and diesel.
- Hurricane-Proof Mooring: Equipped with reinforced pilings to withstand coastal storms.
- 24/7 Security: Monitored by CCTV cameras and a gated entry system.
The clubhouse, meanwhile, serves as a social hub with amenities designed for relaxation and connection:
| Amenity | Operating Hours | Capacity | Services Offered |
|---|---|---|---|
| Harborview Restaurant | Breakfast: 7–10 AM | Lunch: 11 AM–3 PM | Dinner: 5–9 PM | 150 | Seafood-focused menu, full bar, private event catering. |
| Captain’s Lounge | Daily: 10 AM–11 PM | 80 | Complimentary Wi-Fi, live sports screenings, happy hour specials. |
| Locker Rooms | Open 24/7 | – | Showers, towel service, secure storage lockers. |
Beyond these, the club offers a fully equipped boat repair shop staffed by certified mechanics, as well as a training area that hosts weekly sailing workshops for beginners.
Club Activities, Federal point yacht club
Sailing is at the heart of Federal Point’s calendar, with events that draw both seasoned racers and casual cruisers:
- Bluewater Regatta: Held annually in July, this competitive race spans 50 nautical miles along the coast. Rule: All boats must carry a USCG-approved safety kit.
- Sunset Cruises: Weekly Friday evenings from May–October. Open to all members, with live music and light refreshments on board.
- Junior Sailing Championships: A summer series for sailors aged 8–18, emphasizing teamwork and navigation skills.
But the club’s impact extends beyond the water. Through its youth training program, over 200 kids have learned to sail since
2010. As member Sarah Miller put it
“The junior program isn’t just about teaching kids to handle a boat—it’s about instilling confidence, respect for the ocean, and a lifelong love of sailing.”
The Federal Point Yacht Club isn’t just any marina—it’s where salty sea dogs swap stories over dockside beers. Lately, members are buzzing about the future: electric yachts. Quiet as a whisper and eco-friendly, they’re perfect for sunrise fishing trips without waking the seals. Rumor has it the club’s next regatta might feature these sleek, silent speedsters!
The curriculum covers basic seamanship, knot-tying, and safety protocols, tailored for ages 8–18. Social events are equally vibrant. Last year’s “Pirate Night” fundraiser featured a costume contest, a mock treasure hunt, and a live band playing sea shanties. Meanwhile, the annual “Winter Solstice Dinner” gathers members to swap sailing tales over a feast of clam chowder and lobster.
Membership Structure
The club offers flexible membership options to suit every lifestyle:
| Membership Type | Cost | Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Full | $2,500/year | Unlimited marina access, priority clubhouse reservations, voting rights. |
| Associate | $1,200/year | Weekend marina access, discounted restaurant rates, event invitations. |
| Junior (ages 8–18) | $300/year | Free participation in youth sailing programs, access to junior lounge. |
Applying is straightforward:
- Submit an online application with proof of boat ownership (for full/associate members).
- Pay a one-time $100 processing fee.
- Attend a brief orientation session.
- Wait for approval by the membership committee (usually 2–3 weeks).
Full members enjoy exclusive perks like reserved slips and voting rights, while juniors gain mentorship from experienced sailors. Associates, meanwhile, can access the clubhouse on weekends and join social events at a discounted rate.
Local Impact and Community Relations
The club’s economic footprint is substantial. According to a 2022 study, it supports 30 local jobs—from dockhands to restaurant staff—and generates over $500,000 annually in revenue for nearby businesses. Partnerships further strengthen its ties to the community:
- Coastal Cleanup Initiative: Collaborates with the Surfrider Foundation to organize monthly beach cleanups, removing over 2 tons of debris in 2023.
- School Sailing Workshops: Teaches 50 students each spring through a partnership with Federal Point High School.
- Marine Conservation Grants: Awards $10,000 annually to local environmental groups researching ocean pollution.
Over the past decade, the club’s community focus has evolved:
| Year | Initiative Name | Outcome |
|---|---|---|
| 2013 | Adopt-a-Buoy Program | Installed 10 solar-powered navigation buoys in the harbor. |
| 2018 | Youth STEM Sailing | Integrated marine biology lessons into junior sailing curriculum. |
| 2021 | Community Dock Days | Opened the marina to the public for free boat tours, attracting 500 visitors. |
Yacht Club Culture
At Federal Point, tradition runs deep. One such ritual is the “Full Moon Toast,” where members gather on the dock at midnight to raise a glass to the ocean. As longtime member Captain Jake recalls:
“My father started this tradition in 1960. It’s not just about the moon—it’s about honoring the sea and the friendships it’s brought us.”
The club’s unofficial mottos reflect its spirit:
- “Fair winds and following seas” – A farewell wish for safe voyages.
- “Tide waits for no sailor” – A reminder to stay punctual and prepared.
- “The best stories happen after the race” – Celebrating camaraderie over competition.
A typical day at the club begins with sailors rigging their boats under the morning sun. By noon, the harborview restaurant buzzes with laughter as members swap tales of last weekend’s race. Afternoons are filled with sailing lessons or lazy afternoons in the Captain’s Lounge, watching the sunset paint the water in hues of orange and pink. As the stars emerge, the dock lights flicker on, signaling another evening of shared stories and salty air—a testament to the club’s enduring charm.
Concluding Remarks
As the sun dips below the horizon, painting the marina in gold, it’s clear: Federal Point Yacht Club isn’t just a place to moor your boat—it’s a living legacy. From its humble 1952 beginnings to today’s bustling calendar of regattas, workshops, and potlucks, the club thrives on tradition and innovation. With memberships for every budget, a marina designed for adventure, and a culture where “fair winds and following seas” isn’t just a saying—it’s a promise—there’s something here for everyone.
Ready to drop anchor and join the family?
Questions and Answers: Federal Point Yacht Club
What’s the cost of a full membership?
Full memberships start at $1,200 annually, including access to all facilities, priority slip reservations, and discounts at the club restaurant.
Can non-members attend club events?
At Federal Point Yacht Club, members often chat about upgrading their vessels. If you’re eyeing a new ride, check out everett yacht sales everett wa —they’ve got sleek cruisers perfect for Puget Sound adventures. Once you’ve snagged your dream yacht, swing by our club’s weekly regatta to show it off!
Absolutely! Non-members can join most social events for a $20 guest fee, and youth sailing programs are open to the public.
Is there on-site boat repair?
Yes! The club partners with Tidewater Marine Services, offering full-service repairs, winter storage, and fuel docks open 7 AM–5 PM daily.
