the yacht club seattle

Seattle Yacht Club

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“ I was part of the team that organized this luncheon, so I arrived earlier than many to the event. ” in 2 reviews

“ We held our wedding ceremony and reception at the Seattle Yacht Club and we couldn't be more happy with our decision to have our special day there. ” in 2 reviews

“ The room was pleasant--a view down the lawn and part of their moorage. ” in 2 reviews

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1807 E Hamlin St

Seattle, WA 98112

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About the business.

Seattle Yacht Club is home to more than 2,500 members. The Club hosts a world-class junior sailing program, which has given a start to numerous Olympians and generations of Northwest sailors. Opening Day, the Club's annual spring celebration, is the region's premier on-the-water party. Seattle Yacht Club maintains reciprocity with more than 400 other boating groups around the world and enjoys membership in the Pacific International Yachting Association and the International Powerboat Association. SYC is recognized among the leading yacht clubs of the world, and members can take pride in both its prestige and its vibrant community. …

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Is the restaurant open to the public?

Seattle Yacht Club's restaurants are not open to the public. The restaurants are open to members, members' guests and members of reciprocal clubs.

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They have really up'd their game! We went here for dinner the other day (our good friends are members) and it was obvious immediately that they had a new chef! For starters they included amuse-bousche which was smoked salmon on diced cucumbers with a hint of seasoning. It was delicious. When the entres came out the plating was impressive. I got the braised short rib. It was not served on the bone (which I loved)! It was extremely flavorful and melted in my mouth. All in all the Yacht Club really stepped up their game and I'm pleasantly surprised!

M parents and my brother and his boyfriend are members here. Seemed nice enough. Many offerings. Beautiful location. Well-kept grounds. Many boats to choose from. Fresh catch seafood. Available fkr Private Parties. My dad continues to rave about theor roast beef sandwich!

See all photos from Gina H. for Seattle Yacht Club

What a great place! Nice people! Good food! Wonderful ambience! Outside dining for summertime fun! The staff know your name and are very attentive

Eric was welcoming and he provided some of the best service I have ever had. They genuinely care for every aspect of the guest.

I signed up for 'session 3' sailing lessons several months in advance and paid the full price up front. I ended up having a work conflict that I can't get out of so I called and spoke with Christina Travis (sailing program manager) on 05/23 asking if I could possibly be put in another class (session 3 is Aug 7-17th) and she said 'there are over 25 people on the waitlist. We just added session 3 this year because the waitlists are so long'. So imagine my surprise when she said there is a $100 cancellation fee. I am cancelling almost 3 months in advance, and they have plenty of people to fill my spot. Not a great business model. I would definitely understand if I left them hanging with short notice then I wouldn't argue on the cancellation fee. She was extremely rude and said she needed to hold people accountable. I would not recommend this business for sailing lessons. There are other options. .

SYC members only and their guests. We ate early dinner on Saturday. The drinks were great! The ahi is delicious. The burger came out as requested with lettuce wrapped instead of bun. Thank you SYC for being so accommodating and on point with hour service! Shout out to pops for taking us to the club!

I came in today with a few friends and boy can I say do NOT order the nachos. I was hoping for something great by the water but right when it came I could tell I would NOT, enjoy this meal. The nacho chips itself were stale, the cheese was just in the top layer leaving the bottom completely empty. The chicken was extremely dry and bland and most nachos are with shredded chicken not chopped. The sour cream tastes sour and expired and the "salsa" was mostly chopped onions. The guacamole was so chunky. The waiters were pretty nice but overall do NOT get the nachos I could barely take a few bites.

SYC is a club for boat lovers but also has an amazing formal restaurant, spacious casual restaurant with patio dining during summer and great views of the marina in Portage Bay. For boat owners, there are "out stations" throughout Puget Sound and reciprocal relationships with clubs across the world. The members and staff are very friendly.

NOTE: THIS REVIEW IS SPECIFICALLY FOR SYC's FORMAL DINING ROOM, THE 'WARD ROOM'. SYC's Ward Room: The best restaurant in Seattle that you can't go to (unless you're [a] a member, [b] a guest of [a], [c] a visiting member of a reciprocal club, or [d] a visiting yachtsperson during Opening Day week. There are many reasons one can cite why SYC is simply 'TBGDYCITWWW'. You can list the outstations, the programs, the staff, and the facilities, but without a doubt one of our best-kept secrets is our fine dining facility, the Ward Room. There have been some great changes you may not be aware of if you haven't been there recently, and if you haven't you really owe it to yourself to come in and see what's happening; you will really be surprised and delighted! For one thing, the Ward Room's executive chef, Chef Breanna Beike (better known as Chef Bre), is a real talent! She is a highly imaginative young chef , much in the style of local greats Tom Douglas and Ethan Stowell. Under her direction, the Ward Room kitchen serves a full menu of Northwest Contemporary classics, featuring superb meats and seafood dishes. Chef Bre is making a name for herself on the Seattle culinary scene; she was a featured guest chef at Fare Start in 2014, showcasing her work alongside other hot talents like Joule's Rachel Yang, and Zoi Antonitsas of Westward! But where she really shines is the nights she puts on special events like her 'Bistro' nights, and the Wednesday Prix Fixe dinners! Bistro nights feature special menus with international flavor. Her French bistro night included such delights as classic steak frites, and the recent Italian bistro night showcased dishes like an incredible beef carpaccio, and homemade gnocchi topped with clams, mussels, and lobster, served in a sweet corn and saffron broth! The Prix Fixe dinners on Wednesday evening are a 'don't miss' event in the Ward Room! These are meals where the chef shares with diners a culinary tour of dishes designed to complement one another, telling a 'story in food' about chefs and their style. Chef Bre really cuts loose with a fantastic three-course meal where she puts together a different and unique menu each week of dishes designed to showcase her talents. At $31, this is an incredible value, as you would pay easily twice that a comparable hot local restaurants like The Walrus and the Carpenter or Sitka & Spruce. On these nights you can play sommeleir and bring your own wine - no corkage fee! How great a deal is this? Of course, the Ward Room also features an amazing collection of wines from around the world to satisfy any taste and budget, and the staff is well trained to help you make perfect choice! But the Ward Room is not just about a brilliant kitchen; the front of the house is just as delightful! Ward Room Manager Joseph Huber hails from Austria, and he and his team of top-notch servers bring a European touch to the Ward Room that is always elegant, but never stuffy! Unlike many local restaurants where the dining room is so loud you have to converse in what my mom called 'battlefield tones', the Ward Room is a serene, relaxing space; just perfect for unwinding after a long day, entertaining family or business colleagues, or enjoying a perfect romantic dinner with that special someone! Not that hungry? The Ward Room is still the place for you! Featuring superb soups and salads (it's one of the last places in Seattle where you can have a Caesar Salad prepared tableside!), The Ward Room is also a great place for a lighter bite as well (Top Tip: try the French onion soup; it's a SYC speciality!) Finally, contrary to what you might think, the Ward Room's dress code isn't tough. Jackets and ties are nice, but definitely not required. Fashion denim is OK too; just no ratty jeans or t-shirts, please! So if you haven't been to the Ward Room lately you owe it to yourself to see what all the excitement is about, and enjoy cutting-edge cuisine at prices that will surprise you! Make a reservation today and you'll be glad you did!

I attended a catered get-together event in June. The buffet of heavy appetizers was quite good! Varied and all delicious. They kept items replenished. The woman at the cash bar could use brushing up on her customer service. She was short with her responses and never smiled. The room was pleasant--a view down the lawn and part of their moorage. The building and decor feel dated--think the Caddyshack Country Club left unchanged since the early 1980s--but it's a historical building so I understand the desire to try to keep things traditional. It just could use some freshening up--carpets look tatty and women's bathroom is very 1960s feeling in furnishings.

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Leading Yacht Clubs • Working Together • Sharing Experiences

Restoring the Bones of Seattle Yacht Club’s 100-year Club

John Brenneis

Seattle Yacht Club

September 22, 2023

When your yacht club’s mainstation building has weathered a century of storms and rain, it might be time to see what lies beneath the outer skin. This is exactly what the Seattle Yacht Club decided it was time to do. Complicating this was the fact that the Old Grand Dame is on the National Historic Register, so it can have no significant exterior changes to the appearance of the building or the footprint. SYC Architect and Club member describes how SYC undertook this project.

As with any wood-framed structure that has withstood the ravages of a century’s worth of wind, rain, sun and occasional neglect, the grand dame of Seattle’s Montlake neighborhood was showing her age. Designed by former Commodore and renowned Seattle architect, John Graham, Sr., and completed in 1920, the Seattle Yacht Club’s clubhouse was placed on the National Register of Historic Places 86 years later.

Three years ago, Commodore Ted Shultz asked me how much it would cost to “re-side” the building. In my experience, I have learned to never offer an opinion about how much something will cost without serious study, consultation and discussion, so I proposed that all exterior finishes be replaced or restored instead of replacing only the skin of the building. Because these new surfaces would likely not be disturbed for another hundred years, it made sense to go one step deeper now and do a seismic upgrade of the structure beneath.

First, we decided to bring the structure up to current building code standards for an earthquake-resistant design. We then drafted a list of things that we wanted to improve, limiting it to just exterior work so that the interior of the Club remained fully functional and operational during the construction period. A committee representing all constituent interests was then formed to decide how we would accomplish this.

Once we agreed to a defined scope of work, we decided that this should be a winter-time project so as not to disturb the summer’s events, but would have cost implications beecause the work would have to be fully enclosed during periods of inclement weather to keep the building dry. While the building is about 19,000 square feet in floor area, it’s just a big house. So, I contacted a trusted contractor who had extensive experience building large, intricately detailed homes. They looked at the project and developed a detailed cost analysis.

The SYC by-laws require a majority vote of the membership for capital improvements of this magnitude. I developed a detailed narrative and made presentations to the Club while working to gain the approval of the Seattle Landmarks Board because they enforce the development restrictions for any building designated as “Historic.” Once we cleared that hurdle, the project was put to a vote of the membership in June of 2022, and passed by a 9 to 1 margin.

With the funds approved, I set to work preparing the construction drawings, hiring the engineer to perform the seismic retrofit design and writing the project specifications. I also began the arduous process of wresting a building permit from the City of Seattle. This was all done under the auspices of the Club’s House and Building Committees. In addition to the siding, the project also included the removal and replacement of the original ship-lap sheathing; the oldest of the original single-glazed windows, doors, and trim; a deteriorating and non-code conforming deck railing and flat roof; and the refurbishment of the soffit above the porch below. Costs were updated as the scope developed with the design. In July 2023, we executed a contract with Walter F. Toth Construction to begin work on August 1.

Phase I of the work began with the erection of a weatherproof scaffolding on the east side of the building, and demolition of the old siding and sheathing to expose the un-insulated stud cavities. To our great fortune, the framing was found to be rot-free, including the sill plates (the horizontal 2x6s that come into direct contact with the concrete foundation), a true testament to the qualities of older buildings.

Seattle Yacht Club

History of seattle yacht club.

From its shabby beginning at a rickety boathouse dock, Seattle Yacht Club has prevailed over the rough seas of wars and endured the battering winds of economic storms. Along the way, the Club has adapted to our changing culture over the decades and centuries. Today, at 126 years old and housed in its elegant Mainstation on Portage Bay, the Club is one of the premier yachting organizations in the world. Its Clubhouse and moorings, 10 Outstations, services, and social activities are second to none, and its financial position is strong. SYC is one of Washington State's oldest and most enduring institutions and in 2010, the National Register of Historical Places listed the SYC Mainstation as a historic resource.

Membership has grown from the original 250 "yachting gentlemen" in 1892 to nearly 5,000 boaters in 2018. The Seattle Yacht Club burgee is recognized around the world because of the Club's continuing contributions to the maritime community, its record of competitive success, and its collaboration in local and international yachting organizations. SYC has been founding members of the Northwest International Yachting Association, the Pacific International Yachting Association, the International Powerboat Association, the International Council of Yacht Clubs and maintains reciprocity with more than 225 other boating groups around the world.

Accomplished boaters, both sailors and powerboaters, have won hundreds of championships and awards, including Olympic medals. The Club hosts a world-class junior sailing program, which has given a start to numerous generations of Northwest sailors. Members come from every socioeconomic background and the SYC Foundation provides funding for youth sailing classes and community boating projects.

The Portage Bay Mainstation buzzes with activity most days of the year. From its beginning, it's where members have celebrated their boating life and community. Today, the Club calendar records weddings, life celebrations, sail and powerboat events, family picnics, holiday parties, and committee meetings. It hosts Women's Group activities, Men's Lunches, Junior Group activities, gourmet quality dinners, sailing classes and more. Boating and the love of being on the water are the center of every activity, including community service. Opening Day, the Club's annual spring celebration, is the region's premier on-the-water party. The internationally known Unlimited Hydroplane Seafair Race week was originated by SYC in conjunction with the City of Seattle.

Members cruise to 10 spectacular Outstations dispersed on the waters of Western Washington and British Columbia. The Club enjoys these amenities thanks to members' significant efforts and contributions over the years.

The Club's strong leadership depends on the efforts of hundreds of dedicated volunteer members involved in 90 committees. In fact, industrious committee members evolve into upper leadership levels, encompassing the bridge officers and the Board of Trustees. These committed and enthusiastic volunteer members also work with the Club's experienced staff to sustain the Club's holdings and to create enjoyable activities.

Being a good neighbor is essential, as is working for a better environment. We continue to spread the gospel of good, even masterful, seamanship through competition, cruising, and rendezvous with other boating groups, and through our respected sailing school. We continue the warm tradition of treating our staff members like family, with the reward that they stay with us for decades.

And, as always, by being good stewards of our splendid Seattle Yacht Club, we prioritize joyful and fulfilling experiences for its members who share the love of all things boating, and the pride of belonging to TBGDYCITWWW - "The Best Gol' Darn Yacht Club in the Whole Wide World!"

Seattle Yacht Club is proud to be a member of the International Council of Yacht Clubs.

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Yacht Clubs

Seattle Yacht Club

Founded in 1892, Seattle Yacht Club is one of our country’s most active and long-established yacht clubs. With facilities ranging from the historic main station on Portage Bay, to ten outstations located along the shores of Washington and British Columbia, the club offers an outstanding group of properties for use by its more than 2,500 members.

From the Commodore:

It gives me great pleasure to confirm the commitment of the Seattle Yacht Club Board of Trustees and its members to the goals and mission of the National Sailing Hall of Fame. Our Fleet Captain Sail, Dave Ferguson and his committee, and Past Commodore, Chris Otorowski, will be working together on the member matching fund program that I expect will exceed the Founding Club level.

We look forward to watching the progress of the NSHOF and its home in Annapolis.

The Pacific Northwest waters, aristocratic pines and views of Mt. Rainier, Baker and the Olympics provided inspiration for Chief Sealth’s (Seattle) native peoples and SYC respects this heritage while developing its own traditions and stewardship. In the 1880s Puget Sound’s Budlong’s Boat House was the locale of the first gathering place of SYC yachtsmen followed in 1882 by the moorage on Battery Street at Brighton’s Boat House. The first Clubhouses built for a formally organized Seattle Yacht Club were in 1892 and 1909 in West Seattle.  Presently the Portage Bay clubhouse (1919) between Lakes Union and Washington offers a colonial style with classical elegance and uncovered and covered moorages. It has been on the National Register of Historical Places since 2006. In addition, there are ten beautiful outstations extending from south Puget Sound through Canadian waters. They are Gig Harbor, Elliott Bay, Port Madison and Eagle Harbor on Bainbridge Island, Henry Island and Friday Harbor in the San Juan Islands, and Ganges, Ovens Island, Garden Bay and Cortes Bay in Canada. The marine environment is protected by SYC’s Code of Ethics and negotiations with the City of Seattle. Reciprocity with U.S. and international yacht clubs exists.

Since 1928 SYC has participated in powerboat predicted log racing’s annual International Cruiser Race, the Capital to Capitol Race. Hosted by SYC in 1936, the attendance was the highest of any U.S. cruising event to that date. In the 1940s the IPBA made it a family event. Today SYC hosts the IPBA Stimson Cup and participates in other IPBA and local races.

The belief that “everyone who wants to be on the water should be” underlies programs for the community such as the 1935 Shut In Cruise when 50 SYC boats took patients in wheelchairs and on stretchers for a Lake Washington cruise. World War II veterans were taken on similar cruises. Today’s Annual Special People’s Cruise was inspired by SYC women who arranged Christmas cruises for the Fircrest clients. SYC’s Opening Day, modeled in part by the city’s 1911 Potlatch celebration has the largest boating parade and international crew races in the world. SYC sponsors the largest fund raising event in boating, the Leukemia Cup Regatta and the SYC Foundation provides funding for Youth Sailing classes and community boating projects.

Protection of maritime waters and racing abound. SYC formed the first Pacific coastal squadron to teach motorboat navigation and to cooperate with the U.S. government in 1916. During World War II SYC’s Flotilla 24, the largest civilian squadron in the U.S., patrolled Pacific inland waters with private small and large luxury yachts. Pleasure boating was dormant but racing continued. The hydroplane races with SYC’s Slo-Mo IV and V won the Gold Cup 1950-1954 and put Seattle and Seafair on the map. The hydroplane era continues with the SYC burgee on winning boats and thousands of spectators watching the races on Lake Washington and on television.

Pleasure boating resumed after World War II. In 1964 SYC was invited to join the Cruising Club of America and continues to host several of their events. The latter’s goal of promoting cruising by amateurs and its interest in seamanship, navigation and handling of small vessel is in keeping with SYC’s philosophy and support of what the juniors call “people who like to mess around in boats”. Boating education at SYC has always been a priority for youth and adult members and non-members. Currently it is provided in Lasers, Vanguard 15’s, and Optimistist dinghies. Pleasure boating for adults, families and the public is provided in Club and private member boats.

Competing in international races in the 1980s again demonstrated SYC’s racing skills. Olympic gold, silver and bronze medals were brought home. The SYC burgee flew on One World in the 2003 America’s Cup Race. SYC women have won world championships in rowing and the Adams Cup for sailing.  World involvement is further demonstrated by hosting of the International Council of Yacht Clubs Forum in 2011. This is the first time it was held in the United States and 14 countries were represented by numerous delegates.

To insure “the most fun for the most of us” the SYC committee system allows for diversified interest groups and activities for all members. The Men’s and Women’s groups have luncheons with speakers and programs to educate and entertain. Parties, balls, dinner dances and children’s events occur regularly. The annual Commodore’s Ball with the Grand Fourteen Yacht Clubs in the area is a gala event. Potlatch, a weekend of water games, races and feasting at Port Madison, is an example of the family centered events for juniors, intermediates and regular members.

Seattle Yacht Club has a tradition of pride in its members who come from every socioeconomic level. Many have made significant contributions to navigational science and member volunteerism is basic to the Club. The 1937 Board of Trustees stated: the club should cater to the average class of gentlemen yachtsman” attempting to please the aristocrats and also the members with small boats regardless of financial position. SYC also has pride in its clubhouse and the city it is named after. The beacon light on top of the Portage Bay clubhouse was installed by SYC members and the Coast Guard and its spire is shown on nautical charts as a private stationary aid to navigation. It beckons you to join the fun of a cultural icon and continue to make history.

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Discover the Best Yacht Clubs in Seattle: A Guide to Top Amenities, Membership, and Social Activities

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Introduction to Yacht Clubs in Seattle

Seattle, also known as the “Emerald City,” is a popular destination for boating enthusiasts. With its stunning waterfront views, diverse boating opportunities, and vibrant boating community, it’s no wonder why Seattle is a popular spot for yacht clubs.

Yacht clubs offer a range of benefits to boaters, including access to exclusive events, networking opportunities, and boating resources and services. Whether you’re a seasoned boater or a novice looking to get started, joining a yacht club in Seattle can enhance your boating experience and provide you with a sense of community.

But with so many yacht clubs in Seattle to choose from, it can be difficult to know where to start. In this series of blogs, we’ll explore the best yacht clubs in Seattle, the benefits of joining a yacht club, and factors to consider when choosing a club. We’ll also provide a detailed review of the top yacht clubs in Seattle, and a comparison of their features, amenities, and membership fees.

So whether you’re looking for a yacht club to join, or simply curious about the boating scene in Seattle, this series of blogs will provide you with all the information you need. Let’s dive in!

Benefits of Joining a Yacht Club in Seattle

Joining a yacht club in Seattle comes with a range of benefits for boaters. Let’s take a closer look at some of the advantages of becoming a yacht club member:

Networking opportunities

Yacht clubs provide a platform for boaters to connect and network with other like-minded individuals. Whether you’re looking to socialize, share boating tips, or discuss your latest boating adventures, a yacht club can provide you with a community of fellow boaters.

Access to exclusive events

Yacht clubs often host a range of exclusive events, such as regattas, boat shows, and social gatherings. These events provide a great opportunity to meet other boaters, learn new skills, and enjoy the boating lifestyle.

Boating resources and services

Many yacht clubs offer a range of boating resources and services to their members, such as boat storage, maintenance, and repair. This can save boaters time and money, and ensure that their boats are always in top condition.

Discounts and perks

Yacht club members often enjoy discounts and perks on boating-related products and services, such as boat rentals, fuel, and dockage fees. This can help offset the cost of membership and provide additional value to members.

Overall, joining a yacht club in Seattle can enhance your boating experience, provide you with a sense of community, and offer a range of benefits and services. In the next blog, we’ll explore factors to consider when choosing a yacht club in Seattle.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Yacht Club in Seattle

Choosing the right yacht club in Seattle is an important decision that can have a significant impact on your boating experience. Here are some factors to consider when selecting a yacht club:

Location and accessibility

The location of a yacht club is an important factor to consider, especially if you plan to use your boat frequently. Look for a yacht club that is conveniently located and easily accessible, with ample parking and transportation options.

Membership fees and requirements

Yacht club membership fees can vary significantly, so it’s important to find a club that fits your budget. Additionally, some clubs have specific membership requirements, such as a minimum age, boating experience, or sponsorship from an existing member.

Amenities and facilities

Yacht clubs offer a range of amenities and facilities, such as restaurants, bars, swimming pools, and fitness centers. Consider what amenities are important to you, and look for a club that offers the facilities you need.

Social activities and events

Yacht clubs often host social activities and events, such as parties, dinners, and guest speaker series. Look for a club that offers a range of activities that align with your interests and hobbies.

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Culture and atmosphere

Each yacht club has its own unique culture and atmosphere, so it’s important to find a club that aligns with your values and personality. Consider visiting the club and speaking with members to get a sense of the culture

Review of the Seattle Yacht Club

The Seattle Yacht Club (SYC) is one of the oldest and most prestigious yacht clubs in Seattle, founded in 1892. Located on Portage Bay, SYC offers a range of amenities and services for boaters, including boat storage, maintenance, and repair. Here’s a closer look at what the Seattle Yacht Club has to offer:

The Seattle Yacht Club has two locations, one in Portage Bay and the other on the shores of Lake Union. Both locations offer easy access to popular boating destinations in Seattle, with ample parking and transportation options.

The Seattle Yacht Club has a tiered membership structure, with different levels of membership based on boating experience and age. Membership fees start at $550 per year and increase based on the level of membership. The club also requires sponsorship from existing members for new members to join.

The Seattle Yacht Club offers a range of amenities and facilities, including a restaurant, bar, fitness center, and swimming pool. The club also has a full-service marina, with 180 slips for boats up to 70 feet in length.

The Seattle Yacht Club hosts a range of social activities and events, including regattas, cruises, and guest speaker series. The club also has a youth sailing program, offering sailing lessons and camps for children and teenagers.

The Seattle Yacht Club has a strong sense of community and camaraderie, with a focus on boating and water-related activities. The club also has a rich history and tradition, with a commitment to preserving the maritime heritage of the Pacific Northwest.

Overall, the Seattle Yacht Club is a top choice for boaters in Seattle, with its range of amenities, services, and social activities. However, the club’s membership requirements and fees may not be suitable for everyone. In the next blog, we’ll explore another top yacht club in Seattle.

Review of the Corinthian Yacht Club of Seattle

The Corinthian Yacht Club of Seattle (CYC) is another top yacht club in Seattle, with a rich history and a strong commitment to boating and water-related activities. Here’s a closer look at what the Corinthian Yacht Club of Seattle has to offer:

The Corinthian Yacht Club of Seattle is located in Shilshole Bay, with easy access to popular boating destinations in Seattle. The club has ample parking and transportation options, including a shuttle service to and from downtown Seattle.

The Corinthian Yacht Club of Seattle has a range of membership options, including full membership, social membership, and junior membership. Membership fees start at $500 per year and increase based on the level of membership. The club does not require sponsorship from existing members.

The Corinthian Yacht Club of Seattle offers a range of amenities and facilities, including a restaurant, bar, fitness center, and swimming pool. The club also has a full-service marina, with 150 slips for boats up to 65 feet in length.

The Corinthian Yacht Club of Seattle hosts a range of social activities and events, including regattas, cruises, and guest speaker series. The club also has a youth sailing program, offering sailing lessons and camps for children and teenagers.

The Corinthian Yacht Club of Seattle has a strong sense of community and camaraderie, with a focus on boating and water-related activities. The club also has a commitment to environmental sustainability, with initiatives to reduce the club’s carbon footprint and promote sustainable boating practices.

Overall, the Corinthian Yacht Club of Seattle is a top choice for boaters in Seattle, with its range of amenities, services, and social activities. The club’s flexible membership options and commitment to environmental sustainability make it an attractive choice for boaters who value these qualities.

In conclusion, Seattle is home to several top-notch yacht clubs, each with its own unique history, culture, and amenities. Whether you’re a seasoned boater or just starting out, there’s a yacht club in Seattle that’s right for you.

The Seattle Yacht Club is one of the oldest and most prestigious yacht clubs in Seattle, with a range of amenities and services for boaters. The Corinthian Yacht Club of Seattle is another top choice, with flexible membership options and a commitment to environmental sustainability.

When choosing a yacht club in Seattle, it’s important to consider factors such as location, accessibility, membership fees and requirements, amenities and facilities, social activities and events, culture and atmosphere, and overall reputation.

No matter which yacht club you choose, you’ll have access to some of the best boating and water-related activities that Seattle has to offer. So grab your boat, gather some friends and family, and join one of Seattle’s top yacht clubs for an unforgettable boating experience.

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

Hope this helps! If you liked reading this article then you’ll surely love reading this article too!

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Ballard, WA   |  Sloop Tavern Yacht Club  |   Est. 1976

Welcome to Queen City Yacht Club

Queen City Yacht Club is located on Portage Bay in Seattle, WA, and has been a part of the United States boating community since 1916. We are a charter member of the Grand Fourteen Yacht Clubs in Puget Sound, with 550 active memberships, representing over 1000 power and sail boaters. We offer our members a myriad of activities, including social functions, and participation in community events. Boat moorage slips, both covered and open, up to 60' are offered exclusively for members. To learn more about joining QCYC please visit our   Membership page .

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Phone: (206) 709-2000

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Connect with fellow boaters at our monthly meetings.  Held every 3rd Friday at the Alki Masonic Lodge - 4736 40th Ave SW, Seattle WA 98116

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Rent our Waterfront Event Venue!

A spectacular view of Lake Union can be enjoyed from the lovely banquet room and spacious outdoor patio making The Extra Ingredient @ Tyee an ideal venue for your lakeside event. 

Learn more about The Extra Ingredient @ Tyee, our waterfront event venue by visiting theextraingredient.com

See our  Tyee Information and Benefits  page for more info. For membership or other information , please email us at:  [email protected]

Tyee Yacht Club is a proud to have been named the 2022 Yacht Club of the Year by the Recreational Boating Association of Washington (RBAW). Tyee is a Sustaining Member of RBAW, meaning that all Tyee members are also automatically RBAW members.   RBAW is a volunteer organization dedicated to the state-wide advocacy of recreational boating issues. RBAW is the "Voice of Boaters" in Olympia. Today there are over 50 clubs and 10,000 boaters that support RBAW.   Read About RBAW Today!

Duwamish Yacht Club

Together We Float!

Welcome to Duwamish Yacht Club

Memberships For Sale and Slips for Rent!! Info here.

Established in 1978, Duwamish Yacht Club is a non-profit where members have exclusive use of a designated slip on Seattle’s only River! We are a 100% Member Managed Marina on a lease that NOW extends to 2052! The Club has 4 docks with 112, mostly covered, slips varying from 35’ to 50’ in length. Located next to Delta Marine, just 4 1/2 miles up the Duwamish River from Seattle’s Elliott Bay and adjacent to the South Park Community.

Our facilities include a BBQ deck overlooking the marina, a clubhouse with a kitchen, laundry room, and restrooms with showers. Features also include a pump-out station, gated entry to a paved parking lot, on-site storage units, and a small project space for members to use. Voting Members can live-aboard, and/or sublet their slip to Associate Members (tenant live-aboard ability are subject to quotas). The Club is governed by established By-laws, Ground & Dock Rules and managed by a member elected Board of Directors. Our Marina is maintained and managed by a dedicated effort of ALL members, work parties and a small dedicated crew. The Duwamish Yacht Club, where members love to boat and together we will float!

DYC Marina Members proudly support RBAW

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The new Minnesota Yacht Club Festival enjoys breezy opening on Harriet Island

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Beyond one big name band jumping ship at the last minute , it was otherwise smooth sailing Friday for day one of the new Minnesota Yacht Club Festival at St. Paul’s Harriet Island Regional Park.

Yacht Club, which continues Saturday, is the first major rock and pop festival on Harriet Island since Live Nation’s River’s Edge Music Festival in 2012. Despite promising St. Paul a five-year commitment, the concert promoting giant lost enough money to convince them to pull out after a single year.

Live Nation owns 51% of Yacht Club organizers C3 Presents, an Austin, Texas, company that’s also behind Austin City Limits Music Festival, Voodoo Music + Arts Experience and the modern-day Lollapalooza. But Live Nation apparently allows C3 to follow its own path.

Some concertgoers complained about food and drink prices, and long lines, but in terms of getting in and around the site, the infrastructure and general vibe, C3’s experience in mounting festivals became quite clear by late Friday afternoon, when Joan Jett and the Blackhearts played an hourlong set to a large, grinning and dancing crowd. (Organizers did not release an attendance number, but have said they expect more than 30,000 people each of the two days.)

On Thursday, Yacht Club’s social media announced reunited Southern rockers the Black Crowes had pulled out of their planned set at 8 p.m. Friday due to “illness in the band.” (The Crowes, however, did not address their absence online.) Rather than drafting an 11th hour replacement, the festival reworked the schedule and gave several acts more time on stage. Local band Durry got pushed nearly two hours later into the schedule for a set that started at 5:40, while Seattle indie folk act the Head and the Heart graduated to the Black Crowes’ planned 8 p.m. slot.

Local favorites Gully Boys opened the festival at 1 p.m. on the main stage followed by fellow homegrown act Harbor and Home on the smaller stage. From that point on, performances alternated between the two stages, with just minutes between bands.

Sets from buzzy country artist Morgan Wade and indie rockers Michigander paved the way for Joan Jett and the Blackhearts, who earned cheers for their famous covers “Do You Wanna Touch Me (Oh Yeah),” “I Love Rock ‘n’ Roll,” “Crimson and Clover” and “Everyday People” as well as band originals “I Hate Myself for Loving You” and “Bad Reputation.” They also covered the Replacements’ “Androgynous,” with Jett giving a shout out to the late Minneapolis band and their leader Paul Westerberg.

RELATED: What to know if you’re headed to the Minnesota Yacht Club Festival

St. Paul Mayor Melvin Carter took the stage prior to Gwen Stefani ’s performance and asked the crowd to applaud the police and other city workers who helped make the festival happen. He also suggested it would return for a second year in 2025.

Stefani — who was promoted as a headliner along with Friday’s final act Alanis Morissette and Saturday’s main attraction the Red Hot Chili Peppers — performed with dancers and video at what sounded like a louder volume than the previous bands. She told the audience her brother-in-law is from Minnesota, so that sort of makes her a local. She then pulled out her husband, former “The Voice” coach Blake Shelton, to sing their current single “Purple Irises.”

It’s been some 18 years since her last substantial solo hit, but Stefani has remained in the spotlight thanks to her high-profile husband and the semi-regular duet singles they’ve released over the last eight years. Stefani and her band No Doubt reunited in April to headline Coachella to much acclaim, but have yet to announce any future plans together. Whatever happens, Friday’s crowd — which was heavy on geriatric millennials and Gen Xers with a smattering of boomers — gave Stefani a warm reception that matched the ideal summertime weather that graced the festival on Friday.

The Minnesota Yacht Club Festival wraps things up Saturday with a bill that includes Soul Asylum, Hippo Campus, Trombone Shorty and Orleans Avenue, the Hold Steady, Gary Clark Jr., the Offspring and Red Hot Chili Peppers.

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Rebuilding Paradise: The Bitter End Yacht Club’s Inspiring Comeback

By: Shannon Sinnard Destinations

Nestled at the northeastern tip of Virgin Gorda in the British Virgin Islands, the Bitter End Yacht Club has long been a premier maritime destination for sailors. For years, this iconic resort has drawn seafarers from around the globe, offering a serene escape amidst the sparkling waters of the Caribbean.

While the term “bitter end” often refers to the final part of a rope or chain, the phrase can also signify reaching the farthest point or the end destination of a long or difficult journey. The founders of the Bitter End Yacht Club chose this name to reflect both its geographical location and the spirit of adventure and perseverance inherent to sailors. For those who navigate to this end-of-the-line point, the BEYC stands as a haven where their journey culminates in beauty and tranquility. And, for many, it has long stood as a cherished traditional stop when exploring the waters of the BVI.

A Legendary Past, a Devastating Blow

In more recent years, the Bitter End’s name has embodied not only a physical destination but also a symbolic one. The iconic BEYC experienced a devastating blow in September 2017 when Hurricane Irma, one of the most powerful Atlantic hurricanes in history, wreaked havoc on the Caribbean, leaving the Bitter End Yacht Club in ruins. The devastation was profound, with buildings flattened, boats destroyed, and the once-thriving resort reduced to rubble.

While many Bitter End enthusiasts were devastated to hear of the destruction Hurricane Irma left in her wake, the iconic Bitter End Yacht Club kept its loyal fans updated via its website , detailing both the damage and community efforts to rebuild this beloved BVI institution.

Rising from the Ashes

Having now been rebuilt and risen from the devastation of Hurricane Irma, the Bitter End’s name resonates even more with the idea of enduring and overcoming challenges – much like the sailors who venture to the farthest reaches to get there.

After the storm, the Bitter End Yacht Club faced a long and arduous journey to recovery. But the spirit of resilience and determination among its community never wavered. Fast forward to today, and the Bitter End Yacht Club has not only been rebuilt but has been reimagined, standing as a testament to the power of recovery and the adventurous spirit that made it famous.

A New Era for the Bitter End Yacht Club

The reopening of the Bitter End Yacht Club marks a new chapter in its storied history. The rebuilt resort seamlessly blends the charm and character of its past with modern amenities and environmentally friendly practices. Here’s a glimpse of what visitors can now expect:

State-of-the-Art Marina

The heart of the Bitter End experience, the marina, has been meticulously restored and upgraded, offering deep-water slips that can accommodate yachts up to 200 feet, along with enhanced dockside services. Sailors can enjoy top-notch amenities including electrical hook-ups, fuel, ice, showers, rubbish disposal, and laundry facilities. Additionally, guests have access to the resort’s swimming pool. The BEYC also boasts one of the best deep-water anchorages in the Caribbean, providing many of the same amenities as the docking facilities.

Culinary Delights

Dining at the Bitter End is an experience in itself. The resort’s restaurants feature locally sourced ingredients, celebrating Caribbean flavors with a gourmet twist. Whether it’s a casual beachside meal or an elegant dinner under the stars, the culinary offerings are sure to delight every palate.

Adventure and Exploration

For those with a thirst for adventure, the resort offers a wide range of water sports, including sailing, kiteboarding, windsurfing, and snorkeling. Guests can explore the vibrant coral reefs, embark on a deep-sea fishing expedition, or simply enjoy a leisurely paddle around the bay.

Environmental Stewardship

The Bitter End Yacht Club has embraced sustainability as a core principle in its rebuilding efforts. The resort utilizes renewable energy sources, practices water conservation, and is committed to preserving the natural beauty of the BVI. Initiatives such as coral reef restoration and marine conservation programs are integral to its operations, ensuring that the Bitter End remains a pristine paradise for future generations.

A Bright Future

From its storied past to its recent resurgence, the Bitter End Yacht Club is more than just a return to business; it’s a celebration of resilience, community, and the indomitable spirit of the BVI. As it welcomes back old friends and new, the Bitter End promises to once again be the ultimate retreat for those who seek the thrill of the open sea and the tranquility of an island paradise in one of the most breathtaking locations on earth. 

BRINGING BACK THE BITTER END

AN INSIDE SAILING EDITION WEBINAR • HOSTED BY PETER ISLER

Join Richard and Lauren Hokin as they reminisce about the Bitter End Yacht Club’s past and discuss its exciting reopening as “Bitter End 2.0” after Hurricane Irma.

THE VIRGIN ISLANDS A CRUISING GUIDE

The Cruising Guide to the Virgin Islands is filled with detailed charts of the various anchorages, supported with colorful aerial photography in addition to piloting, anchoring and shoreside information. The Island Connections sections provide valuable telephone, email and website information to make finding island businesses, services and restaurants effortless. Additionally, the guide includes a free, fold-out color 27” x 17” planning chart covering the British and U.S. Virgin Islands. 

THE VIRGIN ISLANDS WATERPROOF CHART

Printed on two sides this new chart includes the U.S. & B.V.I. from St. Thomas to Anegada, including anchorage and mooring locations as well as GPS coordinates, sailing routes and distances between waypoints. Excellent for the cockpit and attractive enough to hang on the wall when you get home.

This planning chart is a duplicate of the one you receive in the guide with the exception of being waterproof.

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It was smooth sailing for opening of Minnesota Yacht Club, the new music festival in St. Paul

Liz and Tom Glenn knew how to plan for a full day at a big music festival with their kids in tow.

The Shoreview family arrived Friday at the inaugural Minnesota Yacht Club Festival on Harriet Island in St. Paul with a blanket, a stroller and other parenting accoutrements like the Tushbaby. That's a fanny-pack device that a parent can strap on and hold a child in front for dancing.

And Liz did just that with Vera, 7, during Michigander, the favorite act of Zander, 4, who studied the Kalamazoo indie rock group on YouTube.

"This is their first concert," said Liz, 42, whose first festival was Lilith Fair back in the 1990s.

Minnesota Yacht Club is the first music festival since 2012 at Harriet Island, which has a long history of such events including Riverfest and Taste of Minnesota.

But as the elitist moniker might suggest, Minnesota Yacht Club (MYC) was a first-class operation — from electronic wrist bands of various strata to riverboat cruises — presented by C3 based in Austin, Texas, which stages Lollapalooza in Chicago and the Austin City Limits Music Festival in Texas.

"They do great on events. It's dialed in," said Jay "J-Bird" Cook, who helped organized the Soundset hip-hop festival in the Twin Cities from 2009 to 2019. He came to MYC with his wife and daughter to see Joan Jett, "one of my childhood crushes."

Such '90s stars as Alanis Morissette and Gwen Stefani on Friday drew a crowd of 34,000, mostly between the ages of 45 and 60 (Red Hot Chili Peppers and the Offspring are slated for Saturday). There are two stages, running opposite each other, with about a minute passing when one stage finishes and the other begins.

Greg Pilkington, 61, of Salt Lake City was disappointed that the Black Crowes, the act he most wanted to see, canceled on Thursday night because of illness. But otherwise he was impressed.

"This is well thought out," said the New Orleans Jazz Fest regular. "The food was OK, better than most fests but not as good as Jazz Fest."

He added that the video screens on the two stages were "small for a venue of this size."

The good thing, several festgoers mentioned, was that you could stay in one spot and still see the other stage even though it was a couple of football fields away.

Chris Foley, 53, of Dayton was impressed by "how much infrastructure they have. I thought they wouldn't put in enough money. The sound is so good we could hear from the St. Paul Hotel. And the vendors are set up so people can spend money as fast as they can."

Some festgoers in long lines might disagree. One bearded man was about 40th in line at the mocktail stand. "It's either this or go sober," he said, declining to give his name. But he'd already done his good deed for the day, volunteering to fill up a large garbage bag with empty cans in exchange for a free festival T-shirt.

Of course, he could have paid $40 for the shirt at the merch tent, where there were special express lanes for Chase cardholders and VIP ticket holders.

Paxton Schenck,14, of Woodbury tapped her feet in the VIP bleachers to Jett's "I Hate Myself for Loving You."

"It's really cool," she said. Her only previous concert, she said, was Katy Perry.

But she and her aunt, Elizabeth Hjelmen, 43, of Minneapolis wanted to head down to the field to get close to the stage for Stefani. Good move, because Stefani's husband, country superstar Blake Shelton, joined her for "Purple Irises."

St. Paul Mayor Melvin Carter welcomed the crowd before Stefani took the stage at dinnertime. He asked for a round of applause for all the St. Paul workers who helped make the festival run smoothly in a city park, and praised the partnership with C3 promoters.

"If you want to come back next year," Carter said, "then make some noise."

The crowd hollered back at him.

Several veteran festivalgoers had suggestions for next year.

"They need more seating for VIP," said Amy Ross, 65, of Albuquerque, N.M. "It's not a cheap ticket for a two-day festival — $675. Selling chairs would be a huge money maker."

Sporting a Joan Jett & the Blackhearts T-shirt, Mike Latour, 67, of Minneapolis, a veteran of Coachella and Lollapalooza at Harriet Island in the '90s, wished that Jett's set had lasted longer than 60 minutes.

Corey Baesler, 28, of Minneapolis pronounced MYC "not as cool as Bonnaroo but better than Warped Tour or We Fest. Letting people bring in camping chairs would be my recommendation."

With blankets allowed, festgoers just had to plan ahead — like the Glenns did. They arranged for Grandma to pick up the kids about 6:30 p.m., so Mom and Dad could return for the final four hours of music.

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• Nirvana’s Krist Novoselić launches centrist Cascade Party

A few hours before showtime, Krist Novoselić folds his long frame into a plush couch in Belltown Yacht Club’s dark green room. The sweltering, mid-July club date was just another rock show for the Nirvana bassist. Novoselić and an assembled-on-the-fly band were playing an unusual “political convention.”

“I’m not running for president!” Novoselić blurts over a loudly humming fan, a little annoyed at the facetious question or frustrated by the unlikely predicament he’s found himself in. “It’s not a real campaign because we don’t want to be on the ballot.”

Nevertheless, the Rock & Roll Hall of Famer’s name might be up there next to Republican nominee Donald Trump and Vice President Kamala Harris (or whichever Democrat is on the ticket) when Washington ballots are mailed out in October.

Novoselić’s undesired candidacy is the result of a Washington election rule he says unfairly hinders minor political parties like his recently formed Cascade Party of Washington.

The politically active rocker chairs the startup Cascade Party, which aims to provide a centrist alternative in an era of hyper-partisanship. Evoking the mountain range that separates Eastern and Western Washington, the name symbolizes the idea of meeting in the middle, once a byproduct of functional democracy. “We are a home for people tired of the polarized fringes dominating our politics,” proclaims the Cascade Party’s website .

The group doesn’t really want to wade into this year’s contentious presidential race (or any national contest for that matter). Instead, party organizers are focused on running candidates in statewide elections starting in 2025. But to be recognized as a bona fide party in Washington, political parties are required to field presidential and vice presidential tickets, Novoselić says, a rule the Cascade Party is challenging with the state.

“We’re serious about being a party, but we’re disappointed that for a group that wants to get established locally that we have to be associated with the highest office in the land,” Novoselić says. “That’s quite the chasm to span.”

Official recognition would also allow the fledgling party to raise money.

“This is about getting access to the same fundraising rules Republicans and Democrats have because they’re bona fide parties,” Novoselić says. “So basically, if we don’t qualify, then we’re a political action committee. … We’ll just be another PAC. Whoopee.”

In the meantime, Novoselić and his fledgling party are trying to drum up the 1,000 signatures required to nominate him as a presidential candidate on the November ballot. Facing a tight July 27 qualifying deadline, the Seattle rock great quickly put together Krist Novoselić’s Bona Fide Band for a Washington state mini tour with concerts doubling as political “conventions.”

The next stop is a July 23 show at McMenamins Spanish Ballroom in Tacoma (8 p.m. $15-$40) before an Eastern Washington swing concluding in Walla Walla on July 27. The band features all-star locals Mark Pickerel from Screaming Trees, go-to guitar ringer Kathy Moore and vocalists Jennifer Johnson and Jillian Raye who play with Novoselić in his other most recent band, 3rd Secret — another supergroup featuring Matt Cameron (Pearl Jam, Soundgarden) and Soundgarden guitarist Kim Thayil. (Raye and Novoselić first linked up with their previous Giants in the Trees project .)

“Time is running short,” Novoselić says. “There’s all these barriers that protect Republicans and Democrats, so basically, this is a statement saying ‘Hey, look what’s going on with political association in Washington state.’ We’re having these conventions, we’re collecting signatures and we’re having as much fun as possible in the meantime.”

For anyone attending the shows, er, conventions, don’t expect any hard-sell proselytizing or stump speeches from the 59-year-old bassist-turned-political organizer. The fieriest statements of the night at Belltown Yacht Club came from Moore, who unleashed a barrage of scorching solos into the already steamy room. Only at the end of the Bona Fide Band’s hourlong set, mostly comprised of 3rd Secret and Giants in the Trees tunes, did Novoselić briefly mention the no-pressure petition before closing with an exuberant pass through “Love Buzz,” a song by Dutch psych rockers Shocking Blue that Nirvana covered on its first album, “Bleach.”

The only other Nirvana nod was also a cover, with their moody rendition of David Bowie’s “The Man Who Sold the World” followed by an homage to Pickerel’s roots, taking on the Trees’ “Where the Twain Shall Meet.”

• Who’s smiling now? Nirvana and Marc Jacobs settle logo lawsuit

If the Aberdeen-reared punk’s political foray seems out of the blue, well, it’s not. Novoselić got a taste for grassroots activism in the ’90s, founding the Joint Artists and Musicians Political Action Committee (JAMPAC) and lobbying for the repeal of Seattle’s infamous Teen Dance Ordinance, which made running all-ages music venues in the city nearly impossible, among other issues. In 2005, he joined the board of the national nonpartisan group FairVote, which promotes ranked choice voting and efforts to curb partisan gerrymandering — measures that could help minor parties chisel more of a place in America’s two-party political system.

The 4-month-old Cascade Party’s bylaws and platform are still a work in progress. Though a draft platform on its website indicates support for free markets (but not unchecked capitalism), environmental sustainability and preservation, urban density, farming, judicial reform and increased government transparency.

The party has launched its own private social media platform through which members can mingle and exchange ideas as they form a community of people with “shared needs and values,” Novoselić says. The idea is to build the Cascade Party and its future policy proposals from the ground up, unlike the top-down structure of the two dominant parties. He likens the approach to his musical upbringing.

“That’s what I was just raised on, starting in the music industry or just being a fan of music and finding like-minded young people who discovered each other and made our own scenes,” he says. “We just did it ourselves.”

Call it DIY politics for a period when divisiveness and vitriol reign; a time when an us-against-them mentality seems as entrenched as ever.

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The timing, with a heated presidential election and an already boiling political climate, presents both a challenge and an opportunity for the Cascade Party, which really looks to get off the ground next year. While the presidential race is taking up so much of the public’s focus, the heightened polarization between Democrats and Republicans could leave some disenchanted voters searching for an alternative. By focusing on local issues and municipal elections, Novoselić thinks there’s more room to stake out that middle ground.

“People are lined up, for president, they’re lined up behind one party or the other it seems like,” he says. “But on the local level, there’s a lot of latitude. That’s participating in democracy and that participation is getting involved in your local community and making things happen.”

Correction: A photo caption on an earlier version of this story misidentified Krist Novoselić .

The opinions expressed in reader comments are those of the author only and do not reflect the opinions of The Seattle Times.

StarTribune

Festival, ahoy a dozen things to know about st. paul's minnesota yacht club.

It's the biggest music festival launched in the Twin Cities in 12 years. It's expecting more than 30,000 musicheads per day. And it's being produced by the same company that puts on Lollapalooza and the Austin City Limits fests.

There's a lot to learn about the Minnesota Yacht Club — especially for deprived Twin Cities music lovers who haven't been to a big, nationally promoted festival like this since Live Nation's ill-fated River's Edge Music Festival on the same site in 2012.

With its inaugural voyage scheduled Friday and Saturday at Harriet Island Regional Park in St. Paul, the river-themed event features a Gen-X-nostalgic all-rock lineup led by the Red Hot Chili Peppers, Alanis Morissette, Gwen Stefani, Black Crowes, the Offspring, Joan Jett & the Blackhearts, the Hold Steady and a dozen more acts. New Orleans' soul-funk troupe Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue are the only non-rock act on the bill, and they actually rock harder than most of them.

Here are some pointers, talking points and pointed opinions going into this weekend's mega-bash.

1. Saturday's single-day tickets are sold out. Even though they just played in town last year , the Chili Peppers' day as headliners quickly proved more popular than Morissette's. However, two-day general admission festival passes (now $255) and one-day Friday tickets ($135) were still available at press time via minnesotayachtclubfestival.com .

2. No, it's not a "yacht rock" festival. There actually has been a lot of confusion about this. The event's name is simply a fun spin on its riverside location and the relative irony of someone having a yacht in Minnesota. It has nothing to do with the genre of music associated with breezy and cheesy '70s-'80s hitmakers like Toto, Seals & Crofts and Christopher Cross. How fun would it have been to see one of those acts sandwiched between the Hold Steady and Offspring, though?

3. Boats actually are part of the experience. "Riverboat VIP" ticket holders ($825) can lounge in air-conditioning on the Jonathan Padelford and even take a 60-minute cruise on the paddleboat during the fest. Why anyone would want to go to a music fest to set sail for South St. Paul, we're not sure, but it's a unique idea for a festival.

4. The company behind it is in the festival business. C3 got its start with the hugely successful Austin City Limits Music Festival in the early 2000s before turning Lollapalooza into a one-weekend Chicago event. Live Nation bought a 51% stake in the company in 2014 but mostly leaves C3 to do its own thing when it comes to festivals. Other fests in its portfolio include Boston Calling, Atlanta's Shaky Knees and New York's Governors Ball — all steeped in unique branding and preparations for each city.

"We've been talking to the city well over a year now and working with them on the logistical plans," C3 promoter Tim Sweetwood said of MYC.

5. There will be only two stages (and no overlapping performances). While many festivals require fans to make tough decisions and Iditarod-like treks between competing stages — OK, maybe that's being a little dramatic — the setup at MYC in its first year features just two stages with alternating music that never runs concurrently. Dubbed the Skipper Stage and Crow's Nest Stage, they are only about a quarter-mile apart, too.

6. Gwen Stefani's appearance is the rarest among the top names. Last seen in town making a surprise appearance with husband Blake Shelton at the TC Summer Jam in 2022 , the former No Doubt singer and ex-coach on NBC's "The Voice" has not been performing a lot of late; just a handful of fly-in gigs this summer.

In the solo gigs she has done in 2024, Stefani has been revisiting many songs from No Doubt (with whom she reunited at Coachella fest in April ), including "Don't Speak," "Just a Girl" and "Hella Good."

7. The lineup isn't entirely a nostalgia trip. All these aforementioned acts make it look exclusively like a '90s and early '00s throwback fest, but there are actually modern stars and buzzmakers on the lineup.

Texas slinger Gary Clark Jr. has been the most thrilling blues-rock guitarist on tour over the past decade . Harmonious Seattle rockers the Head and the Heart have racked up a swath of radio hits and TV/film placement with songs like "Lost in My Mind." Twangy singer Morgan Wade has made a couple of well-reviewed records with Jason Isbell's guitarist Sadler Vaden as her producer. Indie-rocker Michigander is a critical favorite.

The Twin Cities' own pop-rock darlings Hippo Campus have become a big draw , too, recently playing New York's Governors Ball festival and selling out the Armory in Minneapolis.

8. There's good local representation. In addition to Hippo Campus, we'll see hard-charging local faves Gully Boys help kick off the fest Friday ahead of viral sensations Durry . On Saturday, fuzz-rocky kids Bugsy play before a fun afternoon twofer with Soul Asylum and the semi-local Hold Steady. As rock-only lineups go — musical diversity is not Yacht Club's strong suit — these are some of the state's most relevant acts present or past playing live in 2024.

9. The list of items you're allowed to bring in is short. Leave the chairs, coolers and umbrellas at home. Only small fanny packs, clutch purses, emptied hydration packs or small clear bags are allowed in. Other permissible items include: phones, baby strollers, blankets/towels, binoculars, reusable water bottles, non-aerosol sunscreen (3.4 ounce max) and Frisbees. For our sake, though, please don't bring any Frisbees.

10. There's a longer list of alternative transportation options. Coming from Austin, Texas, a city with notorious traffic problems, C3 makes a point of encouraging biking, ride-sharing and public transit options at all its festivals.

There's a designated rideshare dropoff site (Uber, Lyft, taxi) near the Wabasha Street entrance at 49 E. Fillmore Av. Bike lots are located at both that entrance and the second set of gates along W. Water Street (bring your own lock). For light rail, the Green Line's Central Station is a half-mile walk away. Ample public bus route stops also can be mapped out via metrotransit.org .

11. Harriet Island isn't really an island, and it isn't all that hard to get to. You wouldn't know it from the maps on the festival's website — or if you're one of those uppity Minneapolitans who never visit the other Twin City — but you can approach the park from the southwest side of the river as well as the downtown side. There are assorted parking options over there, too.

12. This is just a start. "It's sort of a slow burn to start," C3′s Sweetwood said, promising expansion in the years to come. "We'll try to give it a little more color and better branding, the kind of things we have a good feel for at C3, being primarily a festival producer."

Minnesota Yacht Club

Friday lineup (in order, 12:45-10:30 p.m.): Harbor and Home, Gully Boys, Michigander, Morgan Wade, Durry, Joan Jett & the Blackhearts, the Head and the Heart, Gwen Stefani, Black Crowes, Alanis Morissette.

Saturday (1-10:30 p.m.): Nico Vega, Bugsy, Wilderado, Soul Asylum, Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue, Hippo Campus, the Hold Steady, the Offspring, Gary Clark Jr., Red Hot Chili Peppers.

Tickets: $135-$925 Fri. only, $255-$1,395 two-day.

Website: minnesotayachtclubfestival.com .

Chris Riemenschneider has been covering the Twin Cities music scene since 2001, long enough for Prince to shout him out during "Play That Funky Music (White Boy)." The St. Paul native authored the book "First Avenue: Minnesota's Mainroom" and previously worked as a music critic at the Austin American-Statesman in Texas.

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