vineyard haven yacht club

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Vineyard Haven Yacht Club

And now for a short history of the yacht club located at the foot of frog alley..

Just about everything to do with the Vineyard Haven Yacht Club, which celebrated its seventy-fifth anniversary just last summer, runs counter 
to what you imagine when you think of the word “yacht club.” No blue blazers, white trousers, or 
officer’s caps. No booze on the premises. Not even a clubhouse for the first twenty years of its existence. Just a crack sailing program that’s fielded three Olympic racers and captured an improbably large net tonnage of regional and national trophies going back more than seventy years – the North American Junior Championship six times between the 1930s and 1950s, for instance. The 
focus, from its first days on the water in 1928, has been on kids, on teaching them how to sail and race and letting them have fun along the shoreline. They play rag-tag on the beach (the person holding the rag is it) and have held contests to see who can jump a bicycle farthest off the club pier. “This is what the Vineyard Haven Yacht Club is all about,” says Polly Brown, a former commodore (in Vineyard Haven, women often serve as commodore). “It’s just a wonderful way to grow up. You make lifelong friends.”      Parents from Edgartown, Chilmark, and all over the Island send their children to the Vineyard Haven Yacht Club junior sailing program. Half the kids in the program join without parents and pay reduced rates. They learn to sail in sturdy little Optimist prams and high-strung Collegiate 420 sloops. The club building – a long, low structure designed by Tom Hale, the former owner of Martha’s Vineyard Shipyard in Vineyard Haven – was built in 1966 on the site of the old Bayside Inn (which was located at Frog Alley, now Owen Little Way) after the pavilion of the first clubhouse collapsed during a dance and the building was condemned. Tap-dancing classes have been held in the clubhouse, as well as jacks tournaments, exercise classes, and line-dance lessons. Club lunches, served on the porch, seldom get more elaborate than hot dogs, hamburgers, and lemonade.      The Vineyard Haven Yacht Club puts boats and racing at the very heart of what it does. But club members are nearly as competitive on land. For many years Art Buchwald and Fain Hackney, an Edgartown lawyer, played Fain’s parents, 
Sheldon and Lucy, in a tennis tournament that came to be known as the Hate Cup. The trophy was a chamber pot filled with flowers. Buchwald’s only instruction to his young partner: “Hit it to your mom.”      Yet as the Vineyard Haven Yacht Club 
rounds the mark on the upwind leg to its centennial, informality rules the day, and money, class, and even fame continue to mean zip to members – and employees – alike. When Lady Bird Johnson was once a little slow to pick up her meal, 
the kitchen staff issued a warning by loudspeaker: “Johnson, if you don’t pick up your lunch, we’re going to give it away.”

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Vineyard Haven Harbor dazzles

Herreshoff 12.5 regatta brings Island sailors together.

Scattered throughout the Vineyard Haven Harbor this weekend were 22 traditional Herreshoff 12.5 sailboats, competing for the win in the 2022 Vineyard Herreshoff Cup.

After five races comprising three Island fleets, Edgartown came out on top in the two-day Herreshoff 12 class Regatta, with frontrunner Warren Vose, skipper of ‘Moonglader,’ earning just 17 points. Menemsha Pond Racers and Vineyard Haven Yacht Club came in second and third, respectively.

Vineyard Haven Yacht Club made its debut participating in the annual event, as the regatta initially consisted of only Menemsha Pond Racers and Edgartown Yacht Club Herreshoff 12.5 boaters.

The Herreshoff 12.5 is the “quintessential New England boat,” Vineyard Haven resident and regatta entrant Stuart Halpert told The Times. Deeming it “uncommonly popular,” Halpert said the Herreshoff boats have continued its unique prevalence for over a century, as it is easily sailed by novices and experts alike. 

Because of its smaller size, the Herreshoff 12.5 can easily maneuver within the harbor’s waters, allowing spectators to enjoy the visceral sailing race without ever leaving land. 

Designed for New England waters by architect Nathanael Herreshoff, the namesake boat’s 12.5 size is wildly versatile, and “great fun to sail,” said Halpert. “You can be as sophisticated as you want with them, and you can be as simple as putting out the sail [and the] tiller.”

Multiple scored races over the two- day period reveal the winning fleet–and the winning boat – The winner of the regatta is determined by calculating the sum of the scores of the top three finishers from each club. The lowest number of points wins (akin to golf scoring).

EYC ‘Moonglade’- Warren Vose/Anne Vose: 17

MP ‘Pippin’-Robert Soros/Scott DiBiaso: 20

EYC ‘June Bug’-Deborah Orazem/Penn Edmonds: 22

Edgartown Yacht Club: 79

Menemsha:103

Vineyard Haven Yacht Club: 149

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Vineyard Haven Yacht Club

• 45 Owen Little Way , Vineyard Haven , MA , 02568
• (508) 693-3080
• https://www.vhyc.org/

Yacht On Sail

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Discovering the Best Yacht Clubs in Massachusetts: A Comprehensive Guide

Table of Contents

Introduction to Yacht Clubs in Massachusetts

Yacht clubs have been a vital part of Massachusetts’ maritime history for centuries. With its stunning coastline, picturesque harbors, and beautiful islands, Massachusetts is an ideal location for yacht enthusiasts to gather, socialize, and enjoy the sailing lifestyle.

Joining a yacht club offers many benefits, from access to high-quality facilities and professional services to the opportunity to participate in sailing races and regattas. Yacht clubs also provide a great social environment where members can connect with like-minded individuals and build long-lasting friendships.

In this blog, we will provide an overview of the top yacht clubs in Massachusetts, as well as the amenities and services they offer. Whether you are a seasoned sailor or a novice looking to join a community of boaters, this guide will help you find the perfect yacht club for your needs.

Top Yacht Clubs in Cape Cod

Cape Cod is a popular location for yacht clubs due to its scenic coastline and ideal sailing conditions. Here are some of the top yacht clubs in Cape Cod:

Hyannis Yacht Club

Located in the heart of Hyannis Harbor, the Hyannis Yacht Club offers its members access to a full range of boating and social activities. The club’s facilities include a clubhouse, a waterfront deck, a swimming pool, tennis courts, and a full-service marina. The Hyannis Yacht Club is known for its junior sailing program, which has produced numerous national champions over the years.

Chatham Yacht Club

Founded in 1906, the Chatham Yacht Club is one of the oldest yacht clubs on Cape Cod. Located in the charming town of Chatham, the club offers its members access to a deep-water marina, a clubhouse, a waterfront deck, and a full calendar of social events. The Chatham Yacht Club also hosts an annual regatta, which attracts sailors from all over the region.

Bass River Yacht Club

Located on the banks of the Bass River in West Dennis, the Bass River Yacht Club is a family-oriented club that offers a wide range of boating and social activities. The club’s facilities include a clubhouse, a full-service marina, a swimming pool, tennis courts, and a youth sailing program. The Bass River Yacht Club is known for its friendly atmosphere and welcoming community.

Wianno Yacht Club

Founded in 1892, the Wianno Yacht Club is a historic club located in the village of Osterville. The club’s facilities include a clubhouse, a waterfront deck, a full-service marina, tennis courts, and a sailing school. The Wianno Yacht Club is known for its elegant social events, including the annual Wianno Ball.

Stage Harbor Yacht Club

Located in the picturesque town of Chatham, the Stage Harbor Yacht Club offers its members access to a full range of boating and social activities. The club’s facilities include a clubhouse, a deep-water marina, a swimming pool, and tennis courts. The Stage Harbor Yacht Club is known for its active racing program and its commitment to community service.

These are just a few of the top yacht clubs in Cape Cod. Each club has its own unique amenities and services, so be sure to do your research and find the one that best fits your needs and interests.

Top Yacht Clubs in Nantucket

Nantucket is a beautiful island located off the coast of Massachusetts and is known for its rich maritime history and stunning natural beauty. Here are some of the top yacht clubs in Nantucket:

Nantucket Yacht Club

Founded in 1904, the Nantucket Yacht Club is a premier private club located in the heart of Nantucket Harbor. The club offers its members access to a full-service marina, a state-of-the-art fitness center, a tennis center, and a swimming pool. The Nantucket Yacht Club also hosts a number of social events throughout the year, including cocktail parties, themed dinners, and live music performances.

Great Harbor Yacht Club

Located in the picturesque Great Harbor, the Great Harbor Yacht Club is a private club that offers its members access to a full range of boating and social activities. The club’s facilities include a deep-water marina, a clubhouse, a waterfront deck, and a swimming pool. The Great Harbor Yacht Club is known for its active racing program and its commitment to environmental conservation.

Nantucket Community Sailing

Nantucket Community Sailing is a non-profit organization that offers a range of sailing programs for both adults and children. The organization operates out of the Jetties Beach location and offers sailing lessons, racing programs, and private charters. Nantucket Community Sailing also hosts a number of community events throughout the year, including the Annual Opera House Cup Regatta.

Nantucket Boat Basin

Located in the heart of Nantucket Harbor, the Nantucket Boat Basin is a full-service marina that offers its guests access to all the amenities and services they need for an unforgettable boating experience. The marina features 240 boat slips, a fuel dock, and concierge services. The Nantucket Boat Basin is also home to a number of popular restaurants and shops.

Madaket Marine

Located on the western end of Nantucket Island, Madaket Marine is a full-service marina that offers a range of services and amenities for boaters. The marina features 30 slips, a fuel dock, and a full-service repair shop. Madaket Marine also offers boat rentals, fishing charters, and scenic tours.

These are just a few of the top yacht clubs and marinas in Nantucket. Whether you’re looking for a private club with top-notch amenities or a full-service marina with all the conveniences, Nantucket has something for everyone.

Top Yacht Clubs in Martha’s Vineyard

Martha’s Vineyard is a picturesque island located off the coast of Massachusetts, known for its charming towns and beautiful beaches. Here are some of the top yacht clubs in Martha’s Vineyard:

Edgartown Yacht Club

Founded in 1905, the Edgartown Yacht Club is a premier private club located in the heart of Edgartown Harbor. The club offers its members access to a full-service marina, a state-of-the-art fitness center, a tennis center, and a swimming pool. The Edgartown Yacht Club also hosts a number of social events throughout the year, including cocktail parties, themed dinners, and live music performances.

Vineyard Haven Yacht Club

Located in Vineyard Haven Harbor, the Vineyard Haven Yacht Club is a private club that offers its members access to a range of boating and social activities. The club’s facilities include a deep-water marina, a clubhouse, a waterfront deck, and a swimming pool. The Vineyard Haven Yacht Club is known for its active racing program and its commitment to environmental conservation.

Martha’s Vineyard Shipyard

The Martha’s Vineyard Shipyard is a full-service marina located in Vineyard Haven Harbor. The shipyard offers its guests access to all the amenities and services they need for an unforgettable boating experience. The marina features 100 boat slips, a fuel dock, and concierge services. The Martha’s Vineyard Shipyard is also home to a number of popular restaurants and shops.

Menemsha Fisherman’s Cooperative

Located in Menemsha Harbor, the Menemsha Fisherman’s Cooperative is a unique organization that provides a variety of services to local fishermen, including a fish market and a fuel dock. The co-op also offers boat rentals and a variety of marine services to visitors.

Lake Tashmoo Town Beach

Lake Tashmoo Town Beach is a public beach located in Vineyard Haven. The beach is known for its calm waters and stunning views of the surrounding coastline. The beach also offers public boat ramps and parking for boaters.

These are just a few of the top yacht clubs and marinas in Martha’s Vineyard. Each club and marina has its own unique amenities and services, so be sure to do your research and find the one that best fits your needs and interests.

Cape Cod is a popular summer destination located in Massachusetts known for its picturesque coastal towns, stunning beaches, and rich maritime history. Here are some of the top yacht clubs in Cape Cod:

Founded in 1898, the Hyannis Yacht Club is a private club located in the heart of Hyannis Harbor. The club offers its members access to a full-service marina, a swimming pool, a tennis court, and a dining room. The Hyannis Yacht Club also hosts a number of events throughout the year, including regattas, social events, and charity fundraisers.

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The Chatham Yacht Club is a private club located in the town of Chatham. The club offers its members access to a full-service marina, a dining room, a swimming pool, and tennis courts. The Chatham Yacht Club is known for its active racing program and its commitment to environmental conservation.

Provincetown Yacht Club

The Provincetown Yacht Club is a private club located in the town of Provincetown. The club offers its members access to a full-service marina, a dining room, and a swimming pool. The Provincetown Yacht Club is known for its social events, including lobster bakes and live music performances.

The Bass River Yacht Club is a private club located in the town of West Dennis. The club offers its members access to a full-service marina, a swimming pool, and a dining room. The Bass 

River Yacht Club is known for its active racing program and its commitment to community service.

Sandwich Yacht Club

The Sandwich Yacht Club is a private club located in the town of Sandwich. The club offers its members access to a full-service marina, a dining room, and a swimming pool. The Sandwich Yacht Club is known for its active racing program and its family-friendly atmosphere.

These are just a few of the top yacht clubs in Cape Cod. Each club has its own unique amenities and services, so it’s important to do your research and find the one that best fits your needs and interests.

Tips for Choosing the Best Yacht Club in Massachusetts

Choosing the best yacht club in Massachusetts can be a daunting task, especially with so many options to choose from. Here are some tips to help you make the best decision:

Consider your boating needs

Think about what type of boating activities you enjoy and what services you need from a yacht club. For example, if you enjoy racing, look for a club with an active racing program. If you need a full-service marina with access to fuel and other amenities, make sure the club has these services available.

Check out the facilities

Visit the club and take a tour of the facilities to see if they meet your needs. Look for clean, well-maintained facilities, ample docking space, and access to amenities like showers and restrooms.

Research the club’s reputation

Look for reviews online and talk to other boaters to get a sense of the club’s reputation. Ask about the club’s social events, membership requirements, and any fees or dues associated with membership.

Consider the location

Choose a club that is convenient for you to get to and from. Consider factors like proximity to your home, work, or other amenities like restaurants and shops.

Look for a community

Joining a yacht club is not just about boating, it’s also about being part of 

a community. Look for a club that has a friendly and welcoming atmosphere, with opportunities for socializing and getting involved in community events.

By following these tips, you can find the best yacht club in Massachusetts that meets your boating needs, fits your budget, and provides a welcoming community for you to enjoy.

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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Long-Term Rentals near Vineyard Haven Yacht Club

If you’re looking for sailing, tennis, or beautiful beaches, a long-term rental on Martha’s Vineyard - especially one near the Vineyard Haven Yacht Club - may be right for you.

Not everyone has the same idea about vacation. Some people choose to go hiking in the Rockies or ride the Teacups at Disney. If you’re more of the sailing, tennis, or beach-loving sort, a long-term rental on Martha’s Vineyard - especially one near the Vineyard Haven Yacht Club - may be right for you.

Why book a long-term rental on Martha’s Vineyard?

To truly relax and enjoy all that this charming island off the coast of Massachusetts offers, a weekend or even a week may not be enough. 

Booking a long-term rental on Martha’s Vineyard provides visitors the opportunity to become truly immersed in island life. And oh, what a wonderful way of life it is. 

Imagine having a month or even the entire summer to:

• Experience the Vineyard at a slower pace
• Enjoy the best beaches and trails on Martha’s Vineyard  
• Try a variety of dining venues for fresh seafood and craft drinks
• Shop the selection of boutiques on the island
• Become a part of the island community
• Discover hidden gems that weekenders overlook

Whether it’s for a month or six months, with a long-term rental, everything on Martha’s Vineyard will be just a quick ride from “home.”

Amazing vacation homes for rent on Martha’s Vineyard

Many people plan a trip to MV as a day trip from Falmouth, or a short summer break with the kids. For others, it’s not long enough. 

Fortunately, Martha’s Vineyard offers plenty of amazing vacation homes to lease for long stays. 

Vineyard Haven, also known as Tisbury, is an ideal place to spend a month or longer. 

Nestled on the harbor between East and West Chop, Vineyard Haven is home to a variety of quaint shops, great dining options and a thriving cultural district. It was originally a fishing village, as well as home to the whaling industry. In fact, visitors can drive past several of the stately Captains’ homes in town today.

Some of the best long-term rentals are near the Vineyard Haven Yacht Club.

Options range from classic gray-shingled cottages and sprawling homes with water views to modern, upscale properties with distinctive architecture. 

Not only is this an ideal location in Vineyard Haven, but it provides members easy access to sailing clinics, tennis, and clubhouse dining.

Vineyard Haven rentals

To give you a taste of the range of properties available for an extended stay on Martha’s Vineyard, here are some excellent Vineyard Haven rentals to consider:

Classic Cape house on a wooded lot for a couple or growing family

This classic Cape Cod-style home on a wooded lot in West Chop is a great fit for a couple or growing family. With two bedrooms, a lovely granite kitchen, and a spiral staircase, the floor plan of this cozy space maximizes efficiency. A cathedral ceiling enhances the spacious feel. 

Step through the sliding glass doors into a private wooded lot fit for family cook-outs, outdoor time, or a relaxing evening to yourselves.

“Lightside” - Sprawling home with sweeping water view sleeps 15

Looking to host a multi-generational vacation or get together with a group of friends? “ Lightside ” is ideal for large parties. 

With 7 bedrooms, 4 baths, generous dining and living space, and more, this newly renovated home offers classic Vineyard charm with all the amenities. 

It’s just a short walk to the beach, too. 

Guests will want to stay at this sprawling home perched high on West Chop because the home’s large porch and lookouts provide 180-degree views of Nantucket Sound. 

It’s also close to the iconic West Chop Lighthouse.

Architectural Distinction with View to Sailing on Martha’s Vineyard

This distinctive long-term rental in Vineyard Haven affords comfortable, luxurious spaces and well-appointed bedrooms. It sleeps eight, so there’s plenty of room for the family and to host a few friends.

From the marble countertops, chic decor, elegant eyebrow window, and tasteful pergola, this property will impress all who enter. 

Its understated luxury echoes throughout the home. Of special note are the two windowed turrets surrounded by peaceful water views, and the fireplace living room.

Amenities also include:

• A manicured landscape with a dock
• Private patio with pergola
• Views of sailboats on the harbor
• Stairs leading down to the beach
• A short walk to downtown shops

Once you experience upscale living in this gorgeous waterfront rental property, you may not want to go home.

Final Thoughts on Long-Term Rentals | Vineyard Haven  

These are just a few examples of the range of homes available for long-term rentals near the Vineyard Haven Yacht Club. Each of them offers a comfortable home base so you can fully enjoy more time on Martha’s Vineyard when you visit. 

And that’s exactly why a long-term rental on Martha’s Vineyard makes so much sense. 

To see what’s currently available and to find the perfect fit for your vacation plans, have a look at these long term rental options on Martha’s Vineyard .

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Vineyard Haven Yacht Club

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45 Owen Little Way

Vineyard Haven, MA 02568

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Vineyard Haven - 64 Crowell Lane $0

Id: 42462 owner: poli draft.

Welcome to your Vineyard Dream in the heart of West Chop! Built by Novo Builds, a renowned construction company that is known for their innovative designs and high-quality craftsmanship. Novo Builds is set to enhance the landscape of this iconic island with their latest development. This stunning new build offers the perfect blend of modern luxury and coastal charm, making it an ideal sanctuary for families or those looking to entertain in style. With a six bedroom septic in place, the new owner has the option of adding a bedroom. The open-concept design of the main living area ensures a seamless flow between the living room, dining area, and kitchen. High ceilings and large windows allow natural light to flood the space, creating a bright and airy atmosphere. The state-of-the-art kitchen is a chef's dream, featuring top-of-the-line appliances, custom cabinetry, and a large island perfect for meal prep and casual dining. Each of the five bedrooms is a private retreat, complete with en-suite bathrooms and ample closet space. The first floor master suite is particularly impressive, walk-in shower, dual vanities and master dressing room. The beautifully landscaped yard offers plenty of space for relaxation and recreation. Enjoy al fresco dining on the expansive patio or take a dip in the sparkling 18X40 pool. Complete with a cabana the yard is your personal retreat for relaxation and entertainment. Situated in West Chop, this home provides easy access to all that Martha's Vineyard has to offer, from pristine beaches, charming shops and fine dining. The estate is nestled near the prestigious West Chop Club, Vineyard Haven Yacht Club and Mink Meadows Golf Club. This new build in West Chop is more than just a house; it's a lifestyle. Don't miss the chance to make this exquisite property your own and experience the best of Martha's Vineyard living.

First Floor

The open-concept design of the main living area ensures a seamless flow between the living room, dining area, and kitchen, making it perfect for both entertaining guests and everyday family life. High ceilings and large windows allow natural light to flood the space, creating a bright and airy atmosphere that enhances the sense of openness. In addition to the main living area, the home features a dedicated office space that's perfect for remote work or study sessions, offering a quiet and productive environment. The spacious dining room provides ample seating for family dinners or hosting dinner parties, making it a versatile and inviting area for meals and gatherings. Overall, this home combines functionality with style, creating a harmonious living environment that meets the needs of modern living.

Second Floor

The upstairs area in the new build boasts four spacious bedrooms, each thoughtfully designed with en-suite bathrooms and ample closet space. These well-appointed rooms provide both comfort and convenience, ensuring a luxurious living experience for all inhabitants. Whether you're hosting guests or accommodating a growing family, these bedrooms offer the perfect blend of functionality and style.

A basement with high ceilings offers a wealth of potential for being finished into a functional and appealing living space.

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A two-car garage with an attic offers a versatile and functional space, perfect for maximizing storage and utility in a home.

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Deck, Patio, Garden, Porch, Private Pool

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Franklin to Crowell Lane on your left just past Hagerty Drive.

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• West Tisbury

Giancarlo (Carlo) Giacomo D’Antonio, 81

• Friday, August 23, 2024 - 12:44pm

Giancarlo (Carlo) Giacomo D’Antonio died at his home in North Tisbury on July 19 after a lengthy battle with cancer. He was 81.

Carlo was born on Nov. 20, 1942 in Providence, R.I. His parents Carmela and Antonio, born and raised in the small villages of Piana di Caiazzo and Capistrano in Italy, met in the United States. His father was a furniture maker in Italy and built the family home by the seashore in Warwick, R.I., using only hand tools. His sons worked alongside him. He also built a dory for Carlo and Robby—his youngest sons—and they taught themselves to sail it.

He enlisted in the U.S. Army in 1960 and was stationed in Korea. When he returned to America, he enrolled in the Museum School of Fine Arts in Boston, where he majored in sculpture.

On a visit to the Vineyard in 1965 with a friend, he realized that he would do anything—work any job—to stay. Using his father’s tools, he worked as a carpenter on the Island. He shared his father’s reverence for wood and over time he gained a reputation as a master craftsman. He loved boats and worked on the restoration of the 90’ pilot schooner Alabama and for Nat Benjamin at Gannon and Benjamin, building the Sallie May.

He designed and built his own boat in 1979 on the shores of the Tisbury Great Pond. She was one of a kind—a 20’ lapstrake double-ended loose-footed sprit rig cat-ketch, built in the tradition of an early Island vessel called a Nomans Land boat, which was typically an open fishing boat with no centerboard and a shallow draft. It could easily be pulled up onto the beach. He named her Spogliatelle, after the layered Italian pastry, because she was lapstrake.

He sometimes sailed with the then owner of Banzai and when his friend put Banzai on the market in 1988, he jumped at the opportunity: “I always knew what a prize she was, years before I bought her.” Built in 1905, Banzai was one of a fleet of 18 ordered by the New York Yacht Club, known as the NY30s. She was a work of art, representing the beauty and amazing sailing qualities that came from the mind and yard of Nathaniel G. Herreshoff of Bristol, R.I.

By 1988, at the age 83, Banzai had fallen upon hard times and was in need of rescue. He brought her home to North Tisbury. Over a period of six years, he restored her singlehandedly, guided by plans from the Hart Nautical Museum at MIT, using the same materials and changing nothing from the original design. The highlight of her restoration was the new varnished mahogany coach roof and a new hollow mast, built to Herreshoff’s specifications.

When he was done, she was splendid, on the outside authentic in every detail and a joy to sail. Amazingly fast and maneuverable, she could tack in her own length. He sailed her in the George Moffet Regatta and the Opera House Cup, sponsored by Sail Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket Community Sailing, in which he was honored to be presented a special “Spirit of the Race” award in 2002.

In 2005 he, with his brother Robby and friends as crew, sailed her to the 100th year anniversary of the remaining NY30s in Newport, R.I. It was widely acknowledged that Banzai was the most authentic 30 and the only one restored by one person. The 30s raced but Banzai came in last. Her sails were old, her captain was cautious: she was a treasure.

He eventually sold her to an American collector of fine yachts. He travelled to the new owner’s private boatyard in Oyster Bay, N.Y to supervise the million dollar restoration inside and out that made her fit for another 100 years of sailing. Upon his return, he retired from cabinetmaking. In his home workshop, he made furniture of his own design, each piece individual, each piece signed.

In the final year of his life, he painted, sketched, sat in the yard with his dogs, watched his beloved birds, read stories to his granddaughter Marguerite and enjoyed alfresco family dinners with his children and grandchildren.

He was buried in the West Tisbury cemetery wrapped in the mainsail of brown Egyptian cotton that he had saved from his first Island sailboat, Neon Baby.

He consciously constructed and built his life by what he believed. His family and friends remember him as a kind man, generous, gentle and a free spirit. He leaves behind his three brothers Renato, Vittorio and Roberto; his three children Milo, Margaret and Sylvana; his eight grandchildren Marissa, Lucas, Lazlo, Leigha, Ayelet, Aviva, Aria and Marguerite; his partner Nancy; and his dogs Barney and May.

Donations in his memory may be made to Sail Martha’s Vineyard, PO Box 1998, Vineyard Haven MA 02568. Sail MV is a non profit organization which has taught thousands of Island children—for free—to row, to sail and to be safe on the water.

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