ICOYC News

Welcome New Member Clubs!

The Royal Bermuda Yacht Club (RBYC) was founded in 1844 by 30 British Army Officers and local Bermudian sailors with a mission to create an institution dedicated to sailing. Fast-forward to today, the RBYC has some of the richest maritime history in the Western Hemisphere and is the third oldest club holding a Royal Warrant outside the British Isles.

Situated in the heart of Hamilton, the RBYC Clubhouse offers uninterrupted water views, two guest bedrooms, six versatile and distinctive nautical-themed spaces and dining at the outside Terrace restaurant and bar. The RBYC Marina has 122 berths and can accommodate yachts up to 150 feet in length. The RBYC Sailing Academy is the largest RYA Training Centre on island, offering on-water and on-shore classes and qualifications for youth and adults throughout the year.

Based on an island steeped in sailing and racing history, the RBYC has built a reputation of excellence in fleet, ocean and match racing disciplines. Over the past century, the RBYC has sent over 20 sailors to the Olympics and hosted major world and continental championship regattas, including the King Edward VII Gold Cup (the second oldest match racing trophy in the world and the oldest for one-design keelboats). The RBYC is a key partner with the Cruising Club of America in the biannual Newport Bermuda Race, that will have its 53rd edition in 2024.

The Royal St. Lawrence Yacht Club was founded in 1888 by a group of Montreal businessmen who wanted to pursue their interest in boating and competition. It received its Royal designation from Queen Victoria in 1894, and although it’s well known for its excellence in sailing, it has been home to power boaters since its first steamboat races were held. Over the years, the Club has been closely associated with Montreal history and has proudly preserved many traditions. Though Royal St. Lawrence Yacht Club is an ideal location for sail and power boating enthusiasts, it also boasts unique facilities for non-boat owners, including a swimming pool and three tennis courts.

As active members of the Fédération de la Voile Québec and Sail Canada, our Sail Canada certified instructors have years of experience. Our instructional sailing programs welcome both children and adults with junior sailing camps and courses such as Women on Water. Our Shark and Laser Fleet is available to members, and the Club offers a packed racing schedule. Two young members are on the Canadian Olympic team, and a number of members are past Olympians and international competitors.

Located 25 minutes from downtown Montreal on a well-protected harbor, the Clubhouse has a spectacular view of the water, a professionally equipped kitchen and internationally trained staff. They host an array of social events, from seminars to theme parties, official Club events, concerts, wine and food tastings, and provide a warm welcome to guests.