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Just Add Water: Camps That Are All About the H2O

Water camps foster teamwork, teach new skills and promote safety.

By Tiffany Doerr Guerzon

Published on: february 05, 2024.

Lake Washington, Puget Sound, Lake Sammamish, Green Lake, Commencement Bay, your local pool: Our cities and neighborhoods are literally surrounded by a multitude of sparkling bodies of water — beautiful to look at, but even more fun to play in. Luckily, there are many local summer camps that make the most of our aquatic landscape, turning the great outdoors into a setting for learning about marine life, boosting water skills and cultivating new ways to stay active in an increasingly sedentary world.

Very young children are drawn to water, and most enjoy splashing in pools and wading into the surf. (Note that early swimming lessons greatly reduce the risk of drowning in young children). When kids are a bit older and have mastered basic water competency, they may be ready for more advanced aquatic activities. Whether it’s shoving off in a sloop or paddling a kayak through a wildlife-rich wetland, water sports combine exercise, strategy, learning and fun.

We’ve scoured our region’s youth summer camp scene to find top-notch opportunities for frolicking in the sea, surf, sand and swimming pool.

Moss Bay (Seattle)

This weeklong day camp is great for kids who want to try stand-up paddleboarding, sailing and kayaking all in one camp. Located in the protected waterways of South Lake Union and with a 6-to-1 camper-to-instructor ratio, the camp gives kids the opportunity to learn and have fun while staying safe on the water.

Dates: Weekly, starting June 10, 17 and 24; July 1, 8, 15, 22 and 29; Aug. 5, 12, 19 and 26 Ages: 7–12 Cost: $525

Seattle Yacht Club (Seattle)

These weeklong day camps on Portage Bay teach kids of all skill levels how to sail safely on boats of different sizes. Campers must pass a basic float test (with life jacket on) and are led by U.S. Sailing Level 1 instructors. A special Learn to Race camp is scheduled for July 22–26 for experienced campers who have taken at least one SYC class and are able to pass a basic float test.

Dates: Weekly, starting June 17 and 24; July 8, 15 and 29; Aug. 5, 12, 19 and 26 Ages: 7–17 Cost: $550

Alki Adventure Camps (Seattle)

In this full-day, weeklong camp, kids explore the waters of Puget Sound, Elliott Bay and Lake Washington from a stand-up paddleboard (SUP). Campers are supervised by SUP guides, and kids get to go on off-site adventures as well. All gear is provided.

Dates: Weekly, starting June 10, 17 and 24; July 1, 8, 15, 22 and 29; Aug. 5, 12, 19 and 26 Ages: 9–16 Cost: $385–$410

Center for Wooden Boats (Seattle)

Three levels of camp are available this summer, from an intro to sailing to an intro to racing. Students will develop tacking, jibing, sail trim, weight balance and capsize recovery skills while learning terminology and theory. Some camps have prerequisites. Special Quick & Daring camps will be offered to kids ages 10–14, at which teams of campers design, build and race boats on Lake Union’s shallow waters.

Dates: Various Ages: 8–11 Cost: Up to $650 (discount for members)

SAMBICA H2O Camps (Seattle)

Campers at SAMBICA swim every single day with tubes, banana boats and cool water toys. Other activities include kayaking, canoeing, stand-up paddleboarding, wakeboarding and waterskiing. Kids have to pass a swim test to access the deep end of the pool or to be allowed to swim without a life jacket.

Dates: Aug. 12–16 and 19–23 Grades: 2–9 Cost: $889–$957

Camp Fire Kiwanis Camp (Vashon Island)

During this water-themed week, campers go from boating on Puget Sound to living in the woods in a historic Kiwanis lodge. After spending the day on the water, kids can while away the evening observing bioluminescent algae; campers also receive a daylong sailing lesson.

Dates: Weekly, starting July 8, 22 and 29; Aug. 12 Grades: 7–10 Cost: $1,225–$1,425

Camp Fire Splash! (Vashon Island)

Campers at Splash! spend hours each day swimming, boating, fishing and building sandcastles along Camp Sealth’s waterfront. They also take a field trip one day to swim in Vashon Pool.

Dates: Aug. 19–24 Grades: 4–6 Cost: $1,035–$1,235

Water safety resources

Swimming and play in the water is tons of fun, but always remember that safety must come first. Head to the  American Red Cross  website to find a local provider for Red Cross standard swimming lessons and read about water safety tips .

The  National Safety Council  is another great resource. It provides  special water safety tips for different age groups .

Safety first

Can your child tread water or float on their back for one full minute? How about exiting the pool without using the ladder? These are two of the five basic “water competency” skills defined by the American Red Cross, and these skills (or variations on them) are an admission requirement for some water-themed camps. (The other three critical skills are the ability to jump into water over your head and return to the surface, turn around in a full circle and find an exit and swim 25 yards without stopping.)

Need to fast-track obtaining these skills before summer? Sign your kids up for swim lessons ! Try a swim center with a long track record and strong reputation, like  Samena Swim & Recreation Club in Bellevue, which offers group and one-on-one lessons taught according to the American Red Cross standard. City of Seattle public pools offer lessons at many locations, but plan ahead and act fast as spots fill up quickly! 

Editor’s note: This article was first published several years ago, and updated for 2024. Lauren Braden contributed to this article. 

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About the author.

Tiffany Doerr Guerzon is a freelance writer and the thrifty mom of three children. When not writing, she can be found hiking in the woods near her home with her rescue dog Luna or cooking up something tasty in the kitchen. She is the author of “ Save Money on Groceries Without Losing Your Mind: 15 Strategies Anyone Can Use .”

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• Learn to Sail

Registration for 2023 Sail Camp participants opens Monday, March 11th. *Notification with registration codes will be sent out one week in advance. 

, our Summer Camp is not only affordable, but is the most fun and educational experience for youth in our community.

​Classes are divided by age and skill ability with multi-week discounts and scholarships available. Sail Camp Handbook emailed upon completed registration(s). For more information contact  , Marissa Burrier, or call SAYCSC at 904-643-2243.

Sail Camp is for all ages 8 - 17. It is designed to both introduce the basics of sailing and seamanship and build on existing sailing skills. From adventure to racing, your child will take on the water each day and learn to command their own boats. There are three levels to choose from based on age and experience, please choose the appropriate group for each child.  Monday to Friday 9:00am to 3:00pm.

(Beginner) - Ages 8 & 9
 (Beginner) - Ages 10, 11, & 12
 (Intermediate - Advanced) - Ages 8 - 12 *Must have sailing experience or SD approval to register
(Beginner - Advanced) - Ages 13 - 17

is also for all ages 8 - 17. Utilizing kayaks, SUPs (stand-up paddle boards), sailboats and more, your child(ren) will learn about the Salt Run environment through exploration and adventure. Daily challenges, scavenger hunts, picnics, swimming and water games are just a few of the activities your child will experience throughout the week. Your child will not learn how to sail their own boat, but will experience sailing on multiple boats. Groups are split by age, please choose the appropriate group for each child. Monday to Friday 9:00am to 3:00pm.

- Ages 8 - 12

- Ages 13 - 17

is for children aged 6 - 7. Designed to introduce water safety basics and a develop a love for the sea, young children will enjoy smaller class sizes and experience sailing, kayaking, stand-up paddle boarding, swimming, and more! Weeks 2-8 are available for registration. Monday to Friday 9:00am to 1:00pm.

. Little Skippers stay the full day, until 3pm, when this option is added onto an existing registration. Monday to Friday 1:00 - 3:00pm. 

:

DID YOU KNOW?   We are in the process of constructing a brand new Sailing Center right next door to SAYC! We need help raising construction funds and have an exciting fundraising opportunity for families - purchase a plank on the new dock! Planks are engraved with your personal message or family name and permanently installed on our new dock. Show your love for the program for decades to come,  purchase a plank today!

Have Questions?

Please follow this  FAQ   link for answers.

SAYCSC Scholarships:

Scholarships are available and are awarded based on need. for more information including details on how to submit an application, please visit our  scholarship  page. .

[email protected]

206-402-6870

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© 2024 CYC Community Sailing Center, All rights reserved.

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Event Details

Take a free sail any Sunday, or learn to sail and never stop

Center for Wooden Boats offers weekly outings on the water, just one of many ways to learn more about sailing around Seattle.

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As I wait in line at Seattle’s Center for Wooden Boats, my young son toddles up and down the dock sporting his bright yellow lifejacket with my wife close behind. He freezes to stare at an elegantly refurbished sailboat bobbing in a wake, one of about six at dockside that morning.

We are waiting for our chance to board a small wooden boat as part of the center’s Sunday Public Sail — a program that’s been a fixture in Seattle for 40 years.

We’re just a few blocks from Amazon’s downtown offices, but it feels like we’ve stepped into a dramatic change of environment.

Around boats, things don’t move like normal. Platforms sway, your world pitches and heaves. The sounds, smells and colors — everything is different.

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We push away from the dock, unfurling a white canvas sail and soundlessly picking up speed. City life melts away. Shoulders relax. Smiles creep across faces. Waves lapping against the hull are both thrilling and Zen-like.

A living relic

Our boat, the Admirable, one of four boats offering rides this day, is a sprit-rigged sailing gillnetter, built around 1900.

At one time this was a working boat helping fishermen haul salmon from Alaskan waters. Now it’s a living relic of the ancient art of boat building.

From the banks of Lake Union a thundering seaplane roars to life. Minutes later it dashes down an aquatic runway not far from our boat and glides into the air. While traveling under sail is thrilling for the kids aboard, nothing can compete with the drama of airplanes taking off and landing on the water.

For grandmother Suzanne Anderson, visiting from Kentucky, our hourlong voyage is her first time aboard a sailboat, and she grips her seat with white knuckles. Fortunately, the still waters on Lake Union mean that the most dangerous part of our journey is stepping on and off the boat. At one point, some of the passengers even take turns at the huge wooden oars.

About half of our 13 passengers are novice sailors, which doesn’t surprise our volunteer skipper, John Kuchta. He says that’s usually true for locals and tourists alike.

Sailing is a quintessential part of the Northwest fabric, yet it remains foreign to many of us, says the center’s executive director, Michael Luis.

Because we have so much water around our area, people just assume that everyone owns a boat. But many of those who grew up here never get an opportunity to sail, he says.

Luis points at the gleaming new high-rise buildings in South Lake Union, noting the thousands of new tech employees — many of whom hail from places where sailing opportunities are rare.

The program has been wildly popular, says Luis. “We don’t really need the publicity for the Sunday Public Sails,” he admits. On busy summer days — such as when cruise ships are in town — up to 400 people can show up, and the center turns away more people than it can serve.

Still, it continues to be an excellent first introduction to the delights of boating.

Luis says the idea is to expose the public to watercraft with a whimsical soft entry, and some will enroll their kids in sailing camps, or rent a rowboat, or join a restoration program.

Hooked on her first trip

Handling the lines on our voyage is Rebecca Boyd of Seattle. She was once a passenger on a Sunday sail, and then got hooked. She took a volunteer training class, then worked in the center’s boat rental livery. Ours was her first trip crewing with passengers aboard.

My own toe-in-the-water sailing experience came my senior year in college when I took a sailing class during spring quarter. Once a week, we cruised around Green Lake, learning the basics in little Toppers and two-person Lasers.

The fundamentals of sailing a small craft also apply to larger boats, so when I backpacked around the world later in life, I had the confidence to crew on larger boats, opening up a whole world of unique travel opportunities.

Maybe our Sunday sail will be the salient moment for the kids on our voyage, and it will kick off a lifelong affection for sailboats.

Or maybe they’ll just want to pilot seaplanes for a living.

Sunday sails

The Center for Wooden Boats , 1010 Valley St. on South Lake Union, offers one-hour boat outings on Lake Union on Sunday mornings year-round. In addition to sailboats, there are a number of historic wooden watercraft including one with an electric motor and a steam-powered vessel.

Trips are free but donations are encouraged. Sign-up begins at 10 a.m. Space is limited so get there early to secure a seat.

The center organizes sailing classes for all skill levels and ages. Classes are also held at the center’s Cama Beach State Park campus on Camano Island, at Medina Beach Park and Newcastle Beach Park.

For those with experience, small sailboats are available for rent on an hourly basis, as are rowboats, canoes, kayaks and a pedal boat.

More information

Sailing lessons around seattle.

Sailing classes abound in our area. Most start in the classroom with navigation and sailing theory before putting you at the tiller of a tiny sailboat. A sampling of offerings:

• Seattle Sailing Club , at Ballard’s Shilshole Bay Marina, offers 15-hour sailing courses in a basic keelboat for those 18 and older. $395 for nonmembers. seattlesailing.com

• Mount Baker Sailing Center , run by Seattle’s Parks and Recreation on Lake Washington, offers adult sailing classes (ages 16+) on weekends for $565. They also offer youth sailing camps (ages 8-11) and a class for women only. mbrsc.com .

• Seattle Yacht Club provides summer youth-sailing classes, group and private lessons, from Portage Bay near the University of Washington. Classes start at $275 for nonmembers. bit.ly/1qqBx8z

• At Green Lake , Seattle Parks and Recreation teaches adults to sail small Toppers. Eight classes, $175. Kids ages 10-17 can join summer sailing camps for $200. seattle.gov/parks/boats/greenlake/annual_brochure.pdf

• Sail Sand Point offers adult classes on a variety of boats including the Hobie 16, Lasers and a 20-foot keelboat, plus two levels for beginners. A wide range of youth camps are also available. Some scholarships provided. sailsandpoint.org/classes/

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Review Highlights

“ 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

Location & Hours

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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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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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• 2 star rating Could’ve been better
• 3 star rating OK
• 4 star rating Good
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Overall rating

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.

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 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. .

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.

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!

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

Table of Contents

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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Joining SYC

Seattle Yacht Club welcomes applications for membership from Northwest boaters ages 10+ who would like to join our active community.

Members of the Club are entitled to use our Portage Bay Clubhouse with casual and fine dining restaurants, banquet and meeting facilities, guest moorage, and permanent moorage (subject to availability).  Members are also encouraged to participate in a wide range of regattas and cruises, and enjoy activities and dining events at the Club.  Members have access to a Duffy electric boat, a fleet of six J/22 sailboats, 13 Vanguard 15 sailboats, two kayaks and four stand-up paddle boards (SUPs). Membership offers use of our Elliott Bay clubhouse facilities and discounted Elliott Bay moorage (subject to availability), use of nine additional Outstations (listed below), moorage at Mill Bay Marina Group's marinas*, and reciprocal privileges to 250 other yacht clubs around the world.  

SYC Outstations

Cortes Bay – Desolation Sound, B.C. Eagle Harbor – Bainbridge Island Elliott Bay – Seattle Friday Harbor – San Juan Islands Ganges – Saltspring Island, Gulf Islands, B.C. Garden Bay – Pender Harbor, B.C. Gig Harbor – South Puget Sound Henry Island – Roche Harbor, San Juan Islands Ovens Island – Dunsmuir Islands, Gulf Islands, B.C. Port Madison – Bainbridge Island *Effective June 1, 2022, SYC members may stay at four of the Mill Bay Marina Group’s marinas in the Canadian Gulf Islands and outer Vancouver Island. SYC has contracted with MBMG to allow SYC members to enjoy the following marinas: Port Sidney Marina, Mill Bay Marina, Pacific Gateway Marina and Port Browning Marina. SYC members will be allowed to moor at these marinas at no cost for moorage and electricity for a maximum of three nights per calendar month with a maximum of nine stays per calendar year. Members are responsible for any charges above and beyond the three nights moorage and power. The three-night limit is for all of the marinas listed above (i.e. two nights at Port Browning and one night at Mill Bay would be your maximum visit for one calendar month). Any ancillary costs are the responsibility of the SYC member.

Membership Types

Several levels of membership are available based on the age and marital status of the candidate.  For an individual membership, the initiation fee is determined by the age of the new member on the date the application is completed.  Monthly dues adjust throughout the life of a membership as it advances from one class to another.  We encourage married couples to apply for joint membership.  There is one initiation fee, which is determined by the age of the older spouse on the date the application is completed.  The monthly dues are determined using the birthdate of the older spouse.  To request a chart of the current fees and dues, contact SYC's  Membership Director .

Each membership application needs one primary sponsor and three other members to serve as recommenders (all must be voting or Surviving members of SYC).  The application process begins when a voting member of SYC checks out an application packet and becomes the applicant’s sponsor. 

Interested in learning more?

Please complete and submit a Prospective Member Interest Form if you are interested in exploring membership, receiving a brochure and chart of fees and dues in the mail, and receiving an invitation to SYC's next Open House.

Membership Brochure & Benefits of Membership Video

For an overview of the Club, review SYC's   membership brochure .  Enjoy the video below about the benefits of membership with SYC featuring the Club, our Outstations, activities, and some of the people who make the Club special.

Below you will find a list  Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)  about membership with related answers. If your question is left unanswered, please email SYC's Membership Director .

Fees & Dues

Initiation fees & membership dues.

For an individual membership, the initiation fee is determined by the age of the new member on the date the application is completed. Monthly dues adjust throughout the life of a membership as it advances from one class to another.

We encourage married couples to apply for a joint membership.  For a joint membership, there is one initiation fee, which is determined by the age of the older spouse on the date the application is completed. Monthly dues are determined using the birth date of the older spouse. As with an individual membership, monthly dues adjust throughout the life of a membership as it advances from one class to another.

To request a chart of initiation fees and membership dues, please contact SYC's  Membership Director .

Initiation Fee Payment Plan

If a final candidate* does not want to or cannot pay the initiation fee in full, they may opt to participate in a 36-month payment plan. To do so, the final candidate must submit a signed payment plan installment agreement with a check for 20% of the initiation fee, along with the signed final application. There is a fee to participate in the payment plan, which is equivalent to four months' dues (based on the age of the final candidate on the date of application completion). Therefore, the equation to calculate the monthly payment is as follows: Initiation fee - 20% down + 4 months' dues = Principal Balance ÷ 36 months = monthly payment *available for final candidates ages 21+ 

Membership FAQ's

Frequently asked questions about membership at seattle yacht club, q. what do i need to do to become a member of syc.

A.  The application process begins when a member of SYC checks out an application online and becomes the Sponsor.  Each application needs one primary Sponsor and three other members to serve as Recommenders (all must be voting or Surviving members of SYC).  Applications must be completed within 90 days from the date of issue. All completed applications must be reviewed by the Membership Committee and approved by the Board of Trustees to be considered for membership. Processing time takes 30-60 days once the completed application has been received. 

Q. What if I'm new in Seattle and I don't know any SYC members?

A.  If you are active in boating and get involved with local boating activities, you will most likely meet someone who is a member of SYC and they can introduce you to others - simply start asking around. Social Media, such as Facebook or LinkedIn, can help provide connections based on employers, professional associations and others within your network.  If you find that you do not know any members of SYC, you can attend one of the Prospective Member Open House events held at SYC to meet members and/or you can request to be connected with an SYC Ambassador.

Q. How much does it cost to become a member?

A.  For an individual membership, the initiation fee is determined by the age of the new member on the date the application is completed.  Monthly dues adjust throughout the life of a membership as it advances from one class to another. For a joint membership, there is one initiation fee, which is determined by the age of the older spouse on the date the application is completed.  Monthly dues are determined using the birth date of the older spouse.  As with an individual membership, monthly dues adjust throughout the life of a membership as it advances from one class to another.To request a chart of initiation fees and membership dues, please contact SYC's  Membership Director .

Q. Is the initiation fee refundable if I decide to resign my membership?

A.  The fee is non-refundable and non-transferable. Seattle Yacht Club membership is a non-equity membership.

Q. Does SYC offer a payment plan?

A.  Seattle Yacht Club offers new members ages 24+ the opportunity to pay the membership initiation fee over 36 months by participating in a payment plan.  Contact SYC's  Membership Director  for terms and conditions.

Q. Is there a social membership, family membership or business membership?

A.  SYC does not offer social, family nor business memberships.  Candidates may apply for an individual membership or, if legally married, a joint membership. SYC welcomes membership applications for junior members starting at age 10. Kids may accompany members as their guests.  Guests must be in the presence of members at all times.  Membership will not be approved if applying for business purposes.

Q. What does a membership with SYC include?

A.  Access to an amazing community of boaters, use of the Club's casual and fine dining restaurants, banquet and meeting facilities, guest moorage, permanent moorage (subject to availability; contact SYC's  Moorage Administrator  for information on slip availability and rates), Elliott Bay clubhouse facilities and moorage (subject to availability), use of our 10 Outstations (listed below), and reciprocal privileges with more than 225 other yacht clubs around the world.

• Cortes Bay – Desolation Sound, B.C.
• Eagle Harbor – Bainbridge Island
• Elliott Bay – Seattle
• Friday Harbor – San Juan Islands
• Ganges – Saltspring Island, Gulf Islands, B.C.
• Garden Bay – Pender Harbor, B.C.
• Gig Harbor – South Puget Sound
• Henry Island – Roche Harbor, San Juan Islands
• Ovens Island – Dunsmuir Islands, Gulf Islands, B.C.
• Port Madison – Bainbridge Island

Q. I live out of state.  Can I join as an Out of State member?

A.  You can join the Club in your age-appropriate class, then after a minimum of five years as a member in good standing apply for a transfer to the Out of State membership class.

Q. What is the initiation fee schedule for younger members?

A.  Seattle Yacht Club strongly supports our younger members who have made an active commitment to boating in the Northwest. To this end, the Club offers significantly reduced initiation fees for applicants under 24 years of age.

If your question hasn't been addressed above, please contact SYC's  Membership Director .

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