Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Premier Yachting Club in Essex, Connecticut
Founded in 1933, the Essex Yacht Club has been a cornerstone of yachting excellence for over nine decades. Our organization was established with a vision to unite individuals through a shared passion for boating, fostering both competitive racing and recreational cruising. We take pride in our rich heritage, which includes hosting prestigious events like the Wetherill Race and Rum Challenge, while maintaining a strong commitment to community and tradition. Our dedicated team of officers and staff ensures members enjoy unparalleled access to yachting resources, social programs, and dining experiences. With a fleet of Ideal 18s and specialized programs for women sailors, we continue to cultivate maritime skills across generations. Our waterfront facilities in Essex, Connecticut, provide an ideal setting for both on-water activities and off-water camaraderie.Through our rigorous racing calendar and cruising initiatives, we uphold the Corinthian spirit of fair competition and sportsmanship. Our membership, drawn from diverse backgrounds, shares a deep appreciation for yachting's enduring legacy. As we approach our centennial anniversary, we remain steadfast in promoting excellence in yachting activities while adapting to modern needs. Our governance structure, led by experienced officers and supported by specialized committees, ensures effective stewardship of our resources. From casual sailors to professional racers, we offer programs that cater to all skill levels and interests.
Services
Yacht Racing
Women's Sailing
Cruising Programs
Dining Services
Event Hosting
Mooring Access
Boat Storage
Facility Rentals
Sailing Instruction
Social Programs
Details
- Year established: 1933
Highlights and features
- We host prestigious racing events like the Wetherill Race and Rum Challenge
- Our fleet of Ideal 18s supports one-design racing programs
- We offer specialized women's sailing development programs
- Our waterfront facilities feature panoramic Connecticut River views
- We maintain a 90-year heritage of yachting excellence
What people say
Scenic waterfront views
Prestigious racing events
Strong women's program
Excellent dining options
Vibrant yachting community
Services
Yacht Racing
Our club organizes prestigious racing events including the Wetherill Race and Rum Challenge. These competitions attract serious sailors preparing for ocean races while maintaining a spirit of fair play. The annual racing calendar features multiple classes and distance courses that test both skill and endurance.
Women's Sailing
This initiative develops women sailors through structured training programs. Participants gain confidence and skills ranging from basic seamanship to competitive racing techniques using our Ideal 18 fleet. The program emphasizes mentorship and community building among female sailors.
Cruising Programs
We facilitate coastal cruising adventures from Essex to Maine and beyond. Members enjoy organized cruises, navigation resources, and social events centered around recreational boating. The program promotes safe cruising practices and fosters camaraderie among cruising enthusiasts.
Dining Services
Our culinary team offers seasonal menus featuring fresh, local ingredients in a scenic waterfront setting. The dining experience includes formal Friday evenings and casual meals with panoramic river views. Reservations ensure personalized service during peak hours.
Event Hosting
Our facilities accommodate special events with waterfront views and nautical ambiance. The venue includes multiple dining rooms and outdoor decks suitable for weddings, corporate events, and yachting-related gatherings. Event packages include catering and dockside access.
People
William Gunther
Commodore
William Gunther leads the club as Commodore, overseeing strategic direction and representing the organization in yachting circles. With extensive sailing experience, he ensures the club maintains its maritime traditions while adapting to modern needs.
Maura Cochran
Vice Commodore
Maura Cochran serves as Vice Commodore, supporting club operations and communications initiatives. Her leadership helps maintain the organization's strong community presence and effective member engagement programs.
Joseph Standart
Rear Commodore
Joseph Standart acts as Rear Commodore, managing waterfront operations and cruise committee activities. His expertise ensures safe and efficient use of the club's marine facilities and cruising programs.
Sally Riggio
Secretary
Sally Riggio serves as Secretary, maintaining official records and ensuring proper governance procedures. Her administrative oversight contributes to the club's organizational efficiency and historical continuity.
Robert G. Forbes III
Club Manager
Robert G. Forbes III manages daily operations as Club Manager, coordinating staff and services to maintain exceptional member experiences. His leadership ensures seamless integration of yachting programs with facility management.
Questions
How do I become a member?
Membership requires sponsorship by current members and preference is given to boat owners. Applications can be obtained through the Members Only section of our website or by contacting the Membership Chairperson.
What racing events do you host?
We host two signature events annually: the Wetherill Race, a 140-mile blue water race, and the Rum Challenge, featuring both one-design and big boat racing with social festivities.
Are non-members allowed to visit?
Non-members may visit as guests of members, reciprocal club members, or while using our docks and moorings. Guests must be registered in the guest book by their sponsoring member.
What dining options are available?
Our dining services offer seasonal menus with daily specials. Lunch is available Tuesday-Sunday, with dinner service Wednesday-Saturday. Reservations are strongly recommended for evening dining.
Do you offer sailing instruction?
We provide sailing development through our women's sailing program and fleet of Ideal 18s. These programs focus on skill development from beginner to advanced levels with experienced instructors.
What facilities are available?
Our facilities include two dining rooms, outdoor decks, member lounges, and event spaces. The waterfront features docks, moorings, and dry storage for boats, all with scenic Connecticut River views.
