detroit yacht club social membership

Detroit Yacht Club

Review Highlights

“ One of the most beautiful spots in Detroit on one of the most beautiful spaces in Detroit ( Belle Isle ). ” in 6 reviews

“ The membership includes classes, sailing, access to their Olympic sized pool, tennis courts -- much of what you'd expect from a yacht club. ” in 5 reviews

“ While we are not members, my husband and I had the pleasure of hosting our wedding here in 2008. ” in 3 reviews

Location & Hours

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1 Riverbank Rd

Detroit, MI 48207

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About the Business

The Detroit Yacht Club, founded in 1868, is the largest and one of the oldest most prestigious private Clubs in North America. The Detroit Yacht Club has been the center of Detroit society since opening its doors and continues a proud tradition and a strong commitment to excellence and quality service to members. Our members and their guests enjoy a first class dining experience, along with an outstanding variety of social events, recreational, athletic, health and fitness services. DYC offers singles and families of all ages more amenities and more activities than any other private club or marina on the Great Lakes. The Detroit Yacht Club offers an exceptional lifestyle for members of all ages. Once you visit the DYC by car, boat, or our private shuttle service, you'll fall in love. Come experience and enjoy our island paradise for yourself. …

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Overall rating

Thoroughly enjoyed my cousins wedding here at the yacht club! I have never been to a yacht club and felt that although this place was older, it has a lot of history and charm to it that I felt was unique and beautiful. Belle Isle is a beautiful island located just off of the coast of Detroit and in the Detroit river. We took the time to drive around the island and took in the views of the water and parks and lakes that were inside the island. Once we arrived to the yacht club, the security guards were very friendly and approachable and we gave them our names and parked. All of the staff amazed me. The bartenders were fantastic, and even the servers were able to bring us additional food Even though we probably were not meant to have multiple bread baskets. The sunset over the water and the marina outside was just the icing on the cake to a beautiful venue. I would love to be a member here!

See all photos from Breanna H. for Detroit Yacht Club

Came here for a friend's wedding on a Saturday night. The appetizers were fantastic, a few of them were crab cakes, mini BLT's, and caprese skewers. Then for dinner we had chicken piccata and filet with potatoes and green beans. The food was so good, we had none left on our plates. The bartenders here poured drinks extremely heavy, I probably went through a bottle of wine after 3 pours. No complaints here! The place was very fun, I plan to come back here on a normal day (not a wedding) and check it out.

The Detroit Yacht Club is full of beautiful art and wood workings. I've been here for weddings and social events and it's always been a pleasant experience. The staff and management do a great job of keeping the schedule on time without pressuring the guests or host. It makes every Event friendly and professional. The grounds and scenery from the Yacht Club are breathtaking and full of character. Great views of downtown Detroit and the Detroit river. On this past occasion they decorated for Christmas and the main ballroom was decked out in holiday lights and decorations. The salmon, vegetarian stuffed pasta shells and fillet mignon was the choices for the wedding. Sampled all three and was very impressed with the taste and presentation. This is a must see if you ever have need of a great event space. It's worth the money and they'll treat you like family. Give them your business and have an event to remember forever.

See all photos from Brian S. for Detroit Yacht Club

We recently had a chance to attend an event at this Detroit upper crust tradition. Due to high water we had to take the slow middle route through the island to the private, with security guard, parking lot. The security staff is polite and first rate. Some of the event staff are a little jaded to guests, I expect members get a higher level of service. A simply stunning example of a classy clubhouse and upper end quality marina docks. Like something from a movie. There are a few cracks, the patio bricks for the "Bitter End" party room were loose and tripped several people. Some of the rooms were worn, but overall a first rate facility. The pool was a real gem. I expect a member would rate this as 4 or 5 stars, but the staff were only okayish to guests. Great food.

See all photos from Gary B. for Detroit Yacht Club

This historic building is truly a sight to see. It reminds you of being in a castle. The details in the wood are phenomenal. It's truly a place to attend. From what I read about this place is truly a place you want to consider seeing. We attended an employee staff recognition service for our company and being that it was at night we really didn't get to see the entire site. We were on the second floor in one of the ballrooms and it really does remind you of being in a smaller castle, someone's home. We have attended at least 2 events here and I know next time I get the opportunity, I will take a full tour of this magnificent history of Detroit.

I've been going to the DYC for many years. The members are very nice and helpful people. The staff is kind and attentive to the needs of members and guests. It is a private club, but it's very reasonable for general non-boating members (and also reasonable for boating members in comparison to other private clubs). Whether a private party, a dinner at the restaurant or outdoor grill, or just enjoying the pool you can't go wrong with the DYC, you'll enjoy your time spent here at "the resort in the city" just off of Belle Isle.

Becoming a member of the DYC was possibly the greatest decision I've made in the city of Detroit. Some of the nicest people I've ever met and memories to last a lifetime. The facilities are amazing. They have everything from tennis courts (4), TWO pools (indoor and outdoor), a hot tub (my favorite), a gym, sauna, squash courts, and the list goes on. I stored my kayaks on the outdoor racks and rented a locker to keep my PFDs and paddles in and I can tell you my kayaks never had so much use in a season before that year. Unfortunately, I was relocated with work and had to forfeit my membership while living in Southern California but the second I move back reinstating my membership is a top priority.

What a great place. We were there in part to a great sponsor. This gentleman welcomed our wild group of United States Bartenders Guild to a pool party. This was co-sponsored by USBG Greater Detroit Chapter and Bacardi. We swam, we drank, we had a blast. We may have bit a bit load or out of control but when 50plus chapter from all over the USA come together it gets a bit wild. We had members from as far as Hawaii, Washington, Texas, Florida, and everywhere in between. Again thank you for a great opportunity to see old friends and make new one. Detroit City is a great city, and DYC is a great place to visit. Would recommend anyone in the area to become a member of possible.

So our company had it's annual award dinner at the Yact Club. It was nice. Some co-workers pointed out that it seemed dated. I actually liked it. It did seem that they could have shot a scene from the Game of Thrones in the banquet hall, but had old world charm. The food was good and liked the scenery as well. That is all.

This was the first time I visited the Detroit Yacht club. I was invited to a Christmas party that was a contribution for Toys for Tots. I decided to brave the chilly weather and the 45 minute drive to the event. I arrived a little later than the planned start. The parking is pretty ample so I found parking wayyy in the back. Seeing that I had not been here before and it was dark, I was not sure if this was the front entrance or back but I am told that I entered via the back entrance. The building was nicely decorated with Christmas amenities. I entered on the first floor and checked in my coat and proceeded up a flight of stairs. I noticed that there were a few rooms in which to have an event. There was a large crowd in one room and my event was in the other location. There were also areas that were decorated with trees and other Christmas decorations. The room was setup with a separate bar, plenty of room for seating and even a dance floor. I also investigated outside. It had a pier and of course it seats right off the water. I am sure the view is great in the warmer months. This would make a great place for those wishing to have a special event. I look forward to checking out the place during the warmer days to partake of the outdoor view. Overall, this is a beautiful place.

See all photos from Darrell K. for Detroit Yacht Club

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The Detroit Yacht Club is trying to shed its stuffy image

Walking into the men’s locker room of the Detroit Yacht Club in 2014 for the first time, Colin Knapp’s friend pointed to the forest-green benches that spanned the length of the room.

“Just imagine the butts that have sat on those benches,” he said.

It’s impossible to count every derriere. But outside the locker room, the litany of visitors once included the Fords and the Dodges; the Crown Prince Harald V of Norway and the King of Sweden. (The late actor Charlton Heston was once supposedly turned away from a haircut with the club’s barber). Nowadays, the trained eye might spot the faces of General Motors executives, or Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan, who members said recently tucked into a lunch with friends.

But Knapp wasn’t a car executive or aspiring young politico. He was a 22-year-old organist fresh out of the University of Michigan, new to Detroit, jobless. He’d never been on a yacht in his life.

“The whole concept of a private club was new to me,” he said. “I also assumed it was unattainable for me to become a member … I was nervous, you know, would my background be suitable for a place like this?”

But Knapp is the kind of person that the DYC, now in its 150th year, is hoping to lure to its 93,000-square-foot clubhouse on Belle Isle. Through its reduced-fee “intermediate” membership,  which starts at $60 a month for the under 35 crowd, the club is aiming to revamp its numbers and cultivate an image outside the stuffy boat club stereotype.

Economic trouble

As a kid growing up in the 1950s, Ed Theisen gallivanted around friends’ boats, watched movie screenings on Sunday nights and sat through meals with his great-aunt and uncle. It was quintessential childhood, he said.

But the 71-year-old Theisen has also seen the club hit rock bottom. From a peak of about 3,000 members in the 1920s, when Detroit was the fourth-largest city in the country, the club currently clocks in at 800.

And that’s a big improvement. Even though the DYC’s sprawling property – and some of its well-to-do members – seem nestled in a far-off cocoon, the club was never completely immune to Detroit’s economic difficulties.

Some members dropped out because they couldn’t afford it, others because they had fled Detroit altogether. 

“The membership was for years going down and down and down, and that was because of the political climate in the city,” Theisen said. “People in the suburbs did not want to drive down to the club, or drive down to Belle Isle, which was considered a ‘black park.’”

Another wave of members disappeared during the financial crisis of 2008 and Detroit’s bankruptcy. But the few times the DYC has come close to closing — nearly a century apart in 1932 and 2014 — members always came up with the money to save it, Theisen said.

Now the DYC is debt-free and ready to tap into the influx of cash and people to the downtown area. And that means appealing to a wide range of tastes.

While Theisen said he’s nostalgic about the 1950s and the stories of turn-of-the-century Detroit that were passed down to him, the club can’t look back.

“What can I say? It was a different world,” Theisen said.

The 'yacht club stereotype'

Attracting Detroiters to the DYC, whether they’re new to the city or not, means overcoming the “yacht club stereotype.” And part of that comes down to who exactly is welcomed to a private club.

The first thing is, well, yachts. A little more than a third of the DYC are boating members who pay $390 per month for the privilege to dock their boat at the club, plus the annual cost of the boat slip. (Non-boating social members over the age of 35 pay $365). And boating is the reason the club ultimately exists: it hosts a formal junior sailing program, several century-old regattas, weekly off-the-dock sailing races, an adult sailing program and the annual Gold Cup championship race.

Still, it's frustrating that people see owning a boat as the only reason to join the club, said past commodore Ray Batt.

“It’s a much more comfortable, friendly, welcoming environment than most people think when they hear ‘yacht club,’” Batt said.

That hasn’t always been the case. Until the 1950s, there was just one female member who had taken over her late husband's membership, said Theisen. The first black member was accepted in 1971 — two years after the city threatened the club with eviction from Belle Isle in a dispute centered around its all-white membership.

Joining requires a “sponsor” from someone already in the club, plus four more signatures, a process that critics said kept people out. A 1974 settlement required that the club always have at least five black members.

“It was unofficial,” Theisen said of the club’s discrimination. “And that was sad. In our early days, we had Jewish members, and then all of a sudden after 1910 until 1950, we had no Jewish members.”

The DYC doesn’t keep track of its members by race now. But the attitude about who should be allowed to join has progressed tenfold, Theisen said.

Overall, the club is still primarily white but becoming more diverse, said Knapp, who joined the summer after his first 2014 visit.

That year marked a turning point for the LGBT community, too: Knapp was among the first openly gay young people at the club. Then-membership director Lena Angott pushed to grow the LGBT community, and although a few "dinosaurs" resisted, she said, the reception was overwhelmingly positive.

A poolside romance turned into a long-term relationship with Knapp's boyfriend.

“I forget about that part – I met the love of my life at the Detroit Yacht Club,” Knapp said.

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The death of social clubs?

Other longstanding social organizations, from the Loyal Order of the Moose to motorcycle clubs, have also grappled with declining membership for years.

The Masons hit its lowest point ever in 2017 , with about 1.1 million members nationally as opposed to about 4 million in the 1960s. The phenomenon even serves as the premise for "Lodge 49," a sitcom about an ex-surfer who joins an ailing fraternal organization and, at one point, discovers a mummified body in the basement.

Now Detroit's exclusive city clubs are being forced to revamp, too. 

In March, the Detroit Club in downtown was reborn with renovations that included a basement-turned-spa, new guest bedrooms and a cigar bar. A craft cocktail bar and "art and wine" series will also launch in coming weeks to give people a more modern experience, said Angott, who now serves as membership director at the Detroit Club.

The Detroit Athletic Club, near the Opera House, has survived unscathed, as have suburban spots like the Grosse Pointe Yacht Club.

But most other hallowed Detroit spaces didn't make it. The University Club declared bankruptcy in the 1990s. The Recess Club, the Standard Club and the Renaissance Club also remain shuttered.

One issue is clubs' reliance on traditions, Angott said, which can create a generational gap.

"I can tell you every event that's going to happen next year," Angott said of the DYC, adding, "Their traditions are beautiful, but it lends itself to an older crowd ... It makes it a little harder to attract the younger member, because in general, they love the pool and the tiki bar. And then it makes it a little tougher to keep them in the winter."

But the biggest challenge clubs face today is their exclusive origins, said Randy McBee, a professor of history at Texas Tech University who has written two books on American social organizations. Whether a working-class ethnic club of the early 20th century or a country club, members tend to bond over a shared identity that, at its core, bars others.

"It’s not just, 'It happens to be all-male or all-white,'" McBee said. "But at the root of it, it’s 'We don’t want to hang out at the park, because there’s all those other people there we don’t want to hang out with, so we have this other place.'"

That creates a catch-22: The exclusivity that makes a club attractive to one core group can also make it difficult for it to stay afloat when that group dwindles. But if a club tries to cater to everyone, McBee said, it may struggle to foster friendships based on shared values.

"It’s an odd thing these days in the midst of gender equity and equality conversations, especially with the MeToo movement," McBee said. "To what extent can we revive these things that have been based around excluding people?"

The new members

For its part, the DYC still wants the “who’s who” of the city to dine at the club and do business under the radar, Batt said. But it also wants to create an oasis for younger people and families.

Knapp, now 27, felt that the outdoor pool, sports courts and cheap membership justified joining the club. He works in development at the Detroit Opera House, and the $60 fee was about the same as joining a gym, he said.

He quickly made friends with members ranging from young working people in their 20s to grandparents in their 80s. The environment doesn’t feel buttoned-up at all, Knapp said.

“Lots of judgment can happen at a private club,” he said. “The DYC, absolutely everybody is welcome as they are, and we will all party together.”

Knapp isn’t alone in that feeling. Over an eighth of the DYC's members are in the intermediate category, and the club has developed a range of activities that appeals to different tastes: A “metro” club-within-the-club attracts young people in the city; as does the biking club, while there’s also more traditional groups like reading and opera lovers.

From Memorial Day to October, people show up in droves to sip drinks poolside at the tiki bar and watch the weekly bandshell concerts.

“While there’s a profound respect for tradition at the club, there’s also an acknowledgment and the reality that ... you can’t let tradition make you irrelevant to your members and your prospective members,” Batt said.

Of course, some traditions are here to stay. There's the annual Sweepstakes Regatta (since 1892), the Memorial Day Regatta (1915), the Christmastime Commodore’s coffee hour (1925) and the Memorial Day service (1948). And if you accidentally wear a regular suit to the winter black tie Officers' Ball — which hasn't missed a year since 1877 — you'll never make the same mistake again, Theisen said.

For Knapp, the club feels like a connection to Detroit’s past as much as a place to play.

“You go to the end of our little island and see the skyline of downtown,” Knapp said. “Looking at the east riverfront, Detroit is very much — it’s our setting.”

Contact Fiona Kelliher at [email protected]. Follow her on Twitter: @fiona_kelliher.

How much does a membership at the Detroit Yacht Club cost?

The 'yacht club stereotype' A little more than a third of the DYC are boating members who pay $390 per month for the privilege to dock their boat at the club, plus the annual cost of the boat slip. (Non-boating social members over the age of 35 pay $365).

• How much does it cost to be a member of the Detroit Athletic club?

Resident members, those with voting rights, pay an entrance fee of $3,500 and $337 monthly dues . Women, who were finally allowed as members in 1986, now make up roughly 12 percent of membership, according to the DAC News. What do you wear to the Detroit Yacht Club? A dress code applies throughout the Clubhouse. Boating and casual attire is permitted on the first and third floors. In the Front Lobby and on the second floor, a sport jacket or suit and tie are required for gentlemen, with women appropriately dressed. Bathing suits are permitted outside and in the locker rooms.

How many members does DYC have?

From a peak of about 3,000 members in the 1920s, when Detroit was the fourth-largest city in the country, DYC currently has about 800 , the Free Press reported. Also, when was the detroit yacht club built? 1868 The Detroit Yacht Club, founded in 1868 , is the largest and one of the oldest most prestigious private Clubs in North America. The current DYC clubhouse, located on a private island along the banks of the Belle Isle Park in Detroit, is of Mediterranean design and was completed by George Mason in 1922.

In respect to this, can you stay at the detroit athletic club?

Our Luxury Queen Suites feature a queen sized bed nestled in a 300 square foot room in our club . Each suite boast a city view, smart TV, minibar, private washroom with a stand-up shower with bathrooms and slippers to relax in . Keeping this in consideration, who owns the detroit club? Emre and Lynn Uralli The 40,000-square-foot historic Detroit Club at Cass Avenue and Fort Street is about 95 percent of the way through a multimillion-dollar overhaul by its owners, husband and wife Emre and Lynn Uralli .

What should I wear to the DAC?

DRESS CODE: Professional Business Attire is required for ladies and gentlemen 12 years of age and older in main lobby, carpeted area of the Grill Room and all banquet and meeting rooms. Casual Attire is permitted in the brick area of the Grill Room and Abbey. No Denim allowed. Regarding this, can you wear jeans on a yacht? While yacht club attire can vary by club and time of day of the event, there are certain items that just won't do. You should always avoid the following: Denim .

Thereof, what do you wear to a yacht club interview?

• Wear a clean, crisp white polo shirt or t-shirt with beige or navy trousers or skirt.
• Wear your hair up and neat and tidy.
• Look natural, leaving heavy make up at home.
• Have clean, shaped nails and be well groomed.
• Convey resilience, commitment and team spirit.

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Detroit Yacht Club: A Storied Legacy of Elegance and Community

Nestled along the picturesque shores of Belle Isle Park in the heart of Detroit, the Detroit Yacht Club (DYC) stands as a testament to the city’s rich maritime history. Established in 1868, the DYC is one of the oldest and most prestigious yacht clubs in the United States. Over the years, it has become an iconic symbol of elegance, camaraderie, and community. With its breathtaking views, historic architecture, and a deep-rooted passion for boating, the Detroit Yacht Club continues to captivate both locals and visitors alike.

The DYC boasts a magnificent clubhouse, an architectural gem that exudes timeless grandeur. Designed by renowned architect George D. Mason, the clubhouse showcases a unique blend of Georgian Revival and Colonial Revival styles. Its stately columns, intricate detailing, and sweeping verandas create an ambiance of refined sophistication. The clubhouse serves as a gathering place for members, offering a wide array of amenities including dining facilities, a swimming pool, tennis courts, and even a private marina for docking members’ yachts.

Beyond its remarkable architecture, the Detroit Yacht Club is renowned for its vibrant social scene and active boating community. Members share a passion for the open water, fostering a strong sense of camaraderie and friendship. The club organizes numerous regattas, sailing races, and boating events throughout the year, attracting sailors of all skill levels. Whether it’s competing in a race or simply cruising along the Detroit River, the DYC provides an unparalleled platform for boating enthusiasts to connect, learn, and indulge in their shared love for the water.

In addition to its boating and social activities, the Detroit Yacht Club plays a vital role in the local community. The club has a long-standing commitment to philanthropy, organizing various charitable events and fundraisers to support causes that benefit Detroit and its residents. From providing sailing opportunities to underprivileged youth to hosting educational programs on water safety, the DYC strives to make a positive impact beyond its membership. Moreover, the club has played a part in the revitalization of the Belle Isle Park, working closely with local authorities to preserve and enhance this cherished natural treasure.

As the Detroit Yacht Club enters its next century, it remains a beacon of elegance, unity, and maritime heritage. Its rich history, breathtaking clubhouse, and unwavering dedication to boating and community make it a true gem in Detroit’s cultural landscape. Whether one is an avid boater, a lover of history, or simply seeking a place to connect with like-minded individuals, the Detroit Yacht Club continues to offer an unparalleled experience. With its commitment to tradition and its eye towards the future, the DYC is poised to leave an indelible mark on the city’s landscape for generations to come.

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Founded shortly after the Civil War, the Detroit Yacht Club (DYC), housed in the beautifully restored 1920s Mediterranean style villa, continues to be one of the largest yacht clubs in the United States.

The 1920s were golden days for the DYC. Gar Wood brought the club world class attention with his world speed records in a hydroplane and his Gold Cup victories. During the Great Depression, membership at the club severely dropped and some services were discontinued.

By 1946 the Club became debt free and the women of the club formed the first women’s sailing organization in the country and raced the Club’s catboats. During the 1950’s the Grill and River Vista were enlarged, movie equipment was installed in the ballroom so that theater quality films could be shown every Sunday evening and a little later, an outdoor Olympic size pool was added along with Front and West Docks to increase the number of boat wells to over 350.

Today the DYC offers a wide range of activities to ensure there is something for everyone.

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DETROIT BEACH BOAT CLUB

The friendliest club on the lake, dbbc membership information.

Detroit Beach Boat Club is a private, social organization that welcomes your interest in joining.  At our heart, we are a boating focused organization, but boat ownership is NOT required to become a member.  Many of our members either do not have a boat or have docking arrangement elsewhere and just want a place to relax, have some food and drinks, and enjoy good company.  We are open all year long, so just because the boats are not in the water, we are still here for the members' enjoyment.  We offer year round food/beverage service and programming to help keep you and your family occupied all year long.  

The process to become a member is easy!  Simply fill out the form below or come into our facility and fill out an application.  Our membership coordinator will then contact you to schedule a quick meeting with our officers to learn more about you and your interests.   Meetings are held on the first Wednesday of every month at 7:00 pm and are required for membership. 

Following the officers meeting, you may be selected to meet our membership and give them an opportunity to get to know you.  Membership meetings are held on the second Sunday of the month at 2:00 pm (November to April) and the second Wednesday of the month at 7:00 pm (May to October). In 2022, the March meeting will be held on March 6th at 2:00 pm.

We promise that the meetings are painless and easy, but a necessary step to become a member.

DBBC offers two main types of membership to serve your needs:

Full Membership

Full Membership in DBBC gives you all the benefits of membership, including voting rights, ability to hold an office, bar privileges, hall usage, ability to have dock privileges, reciprocal privileges to all Associated Yacht Clubs (AYC) and Interlake Yachting Association Yacht Clubs (I-LYA), and full use of our facilities.

Financial Requirements:

-$120 Initiation Fee​* due upon membership acceptance (One time fee)

-$310 per Year (This is broken up into Summer and Winter installments)

-$20 key card to building/grounds

-$250.00 annual spend with the club

Food and beverage services

Event Participation

Marine fuel and hall usage fees do not count toward this obligation

*Initiation fee waived for Detroit Beach Residents

At our core, we are a volunteer organization.  The only paid employees that we have are the bar staff.  All other functions, such as club management, repairs, improvements, etc. are performed by volunteers and elected positions.   By doing this, we keep our costs affordable and it enables a sense of ownership in our organization.   To help ensure that all work is shared in a fair manner, in addition to financial obligations, there are minimal additional work requirements that can be fulfilled in any number of ways:

Working or chairing a social event

Performing club repairs or improvements

Working on our grass crew

Helping with spring and fall cleaning

Furnishing your expertise in your area of specialization that is to the benefit of the club (i.e. Computer Work, Writing, Accounting, Woodworking, Electrical, Plumbing, etc.)  

Any number of different ways!

Full members are required to work a minimum of 20 hours (More are always welcome!) in a given year.  For full membership, 2 of those 20 hours must be performed at one of our 2 designated public parties of the year.   If you elect to rent a dock from us, 9 of the 20 hours must be performed on dock maintenance and improvements.  

Family Membership

You may choose that a Family Membership is better for your needs.  Family Membership has similar requirements of a Full Membership (above).  Family Membership allows a Plus One Member, one other adult (spouse/partner/significant other of the Roster Member) residing in the same household and designated by the Roster Member to be registered on the family membership account (for $50).   This person, will be afforded the same privileges as the Roster Member. Family Membership also allows for Junior Members, dependent children of the Roster Member and/or Plus One Member under the age of 21.  They shall be permitted access to the club, bar and grounds.  Junior Members shall have no voting privileges and will not be awarded their own key cards, but may be allowed to:

Purchase food/beverages (in compliance with State Liquor Laws) at the club, with those purchases counting towards the Family Membership financial obligations.

Perform club work hours (in compliance with State Liquor and Labor Laws) with those work hours counting toward the Family Membership work hour obligations.

Family Membership has a $250.00 annual minimum spend with the club and the same one-time Initiation Fee of $120. A second key card for the building/grounds may be purchased for the Plus One Member.  Work hours for a Family Membership is a minimum of 25 hours in a given year, 2 of those 20 hours must be performed at one of our 2 designated public parties of the year. Family members can contribute to the work hours it is not only the work hours performed by the Roster Member that count toward the 25 hour requirement.

Social Membership

Our Social membership is designed for the more casual user of the club.   It allows your and your guests access to our restaurant and bar and the ability to attend our numerous social events, as well as gives you the ability to use our hall facilities (additional charges apply) 

-No Initiation Fee

-$75.00 per Year

-$20 key card to building/grounds 

As in our full membership, there are work hour requirements for the social membership to help keep our club more affordable, but they are reduced from the full membership.   A social member must work 5 work hours per year;  4 of those work hours must be performed between our 2 public parties (one is held in June/July and one is held in September).

*The above numbers are just minimums​

Social Plus One Membership

You may choose that a Social Plus One Membership is better for your needs.  Social Plus One Membership has similar requirements of a Social Membership (above).  Social Plus One Membership allows a Plus One Member, one other adult (spouse/partner/significant other of the Roster Member) residing in the same household to be designated by the Roster Member (for $50).  This person, will be afforded the same privileges as the Roster Member.

Social Plus One Membership has a $250.00 annual minimum spend with the club. A second key card for the building/grounds may be purchased for the Plus One Member.  Work hours for a Social Plus One Membership is a minimum of 10 hours in a given year, 4 of those 10 hours must be performed between our 2 public parties (one is held in June/July and one is held in September).   The Plus One person can contribute to the work hours it is not only the work hours per formed  by the Roster Member that count toward the 10 hour requirement.

Dockage Information

DBBC is pleased to offer 94 docks of various sizes that are available for rental by our Full members.  Dock privileges are at an additional cost, but are comparable to other boating club organizations in the area, and provide a tremendous value over area marinas.  In addition to docking facilities, we are please to offer free pump out service for your boat's holding tank, ice, available on site for purchase, and reasonably priced marine fuel (91 Octane, no ethanol recreational fuel) for your boating needs.

-$500 initiation fee paid at assignment of dock (One time fee)

   Dock Pricing*

under 24' boats   - $400​

24'-29' 11" boats - $500

30'-40' boats     - $600

Jet ski docks may be available in addition to your boat dock for an additional $50 per season (based on space availability)

*Dock Pricing is based on titled length of vessel, not length overall.  Our regulations do not allow any vessel that is titled over 40' to be permanently docked at our facility. 

In addition to the financial obligations, 9 of the club mandated work hours must be performed on maintaining or repairing items designated as the dock's responsibility.   Dock work "parties" are organized at the beginning and the end of the season to open and close the docks.  Most of our members earn their dock hours during these organized times.  

For more information or to start your membership process, please complete the form below and we will contact you:

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Software engineer goes missing from Detroit Yacht Club where he's been a member for years

DETROIT (WXYZ) — Divers with Michigan State Police searched the waters near the Detroit Yacht Club Tuesday for any sign of 63-year-old James (Jim) Kuntz who was reported missing Sunday but last seen with friends Friday evening at the club.

Kuntz, a software engineer, is an avid kayaker, and, at first, the Coast Guard reported that he was missing along with his red kayak. But Plymouth Township Police spotted that red kayak in Kuntz's home when a close family friend, Tamra Homicz, contacted them to do a welfare check.

"My husband is like his brother," said Homicz. "They're that close."

The Detroit Yacht Club is on its own island next to Belle Isle and jurisdiction falls under the Michigan Department of Natural Resources.

DNR conservation officers are handling the investigation and trying to determine if Kuntz fell into the water.

Homicz said that although Kuntz is an avid kayaker, he would never jump into the water to swim. And she said Kuntz would never go far from his Apple watch that he used to help monitor his heart.

The watch and Kuntz's wallet were reportedly found on his boat. His vehicle was found in the parking lot of the yacht club.

Investigators said they are working with Michigan State Police to try to ping Kuntz's phone.

Homicz said everyone thinks the world of Kuntz because he's so kind and always so helpful. And they just want to find him.

"He deserves this," she said. "It's just one of those things. It's a mystery that we hope can be solved."

If anyone sees any sign of Kuntz near the water, they should call 911. Anyone with any other information that might assist investigators is urged to call DNR dispatch at 1-800-292-7800.

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MEMBERSHIP OPPORTUNITIES

Welcome to bayview yacht club, one of the most storied and historical sailing clubs in the nation.  founded in 1915 in a small boathouse on motorboat lane, bayview moved to our current location at 100 clairpointe street in 1935.  in june of 2021 bayview completed a state of the art 12,791 square foot, $5 million clubhouse featuring multiple restaurants, two bars, flexible banquet space, and a second story deck for outdoor dining.  the clubhouse takes full advantage of the water’s edge location with panoramic views of belle isle, downtown detroit, and canada.  our new clubhouse has been specifically designed as a first-class venue to promote daily camaraderie, the expansion of membership, and the sport of sailing. membership advantages.

• Award winning, world class  junior sailing program
• Competitive racing opportunities from fun local fleets to world championship regattas
• Cruising activities with organized outings for all skill levels to local and regional destinations
• Spectacular range of dining and bar facilities
• Wine Dinners, Seminars, and Special Events to engage members year round
• Reciprocal club membership opportunities

Membership Application Process

Membership categories are based on sailing experience and age. if you are an experienced sailor, you may apply for membership in the class that is appropriate to your age. prospective members with limited or no sailing experience may apply as a supporting member starting at the age of 27.  supporting membership carries all rights of active membership with the exception of voting, election to a board of governors position, and seasonal well rental while allowing the member to gain valuable sailing experience that will qualify them for active membership in the future. approval of membership requires endorsement by three current bayview members as well as two current board members. if you are not acquainted with any bayview members, not to worry - our membership committee will work with you to make introductions. bayview yacht club has a wonderful facility, an incredible membership and staff that encourage and foster interest in all aspects of sailing.  if you would like to be a part of the tradition, and are ready to apply, please complete our byc prospective member sailing background questionnaire ., still have some questions contact us using the form below and someone from our membership team will follow up with you promptly..

How Much is a Yacht Club Membership? 3 Common Price Ranges

The cost of an annual yacht club membership can vary widely depending on several factors, such as the location of the club, the amenities offered, the exclusivity of the membership, and the size of the yacht being accommodated. We’ve compiled a set of guidelines below to help you estimate what you can expect to pay for an annual yacht club membership.

Local or Less Exclusive Yacht Clubs

These clubs might offer basic amenities such as docking facilities, a clubhouse, and some social events. Annual fees can range from a few hundred to a few thousand dollars. Membership fees could be as low as $500 to $2,000 per year.

Mid-Range Yacht Clubs:

These clubs may offer more extensive amenities, including high-quality dining facilities, repair and maintenance services, fitness centers, and a busy calendar of social and boating activities. Annual fees for these clubs can range from $3,000 to $10,000 or more.

Prestigious or Exclusive Yacht Clubs

The most exclusive yacht clubs, often located in prime locations with extensive facilities and services, can have annual membership fees that are significantly higher. These can range from $10,000 to $30,000 or more per year, with some of the most elite clubs costing even more. Additionally, these clubs might have initiation fees that can range from tens of thousands to hundreds of thousands of dollars.

It’s also important to note that many yacht clubs have additional costs beyond the annual membership dues. These can include initiation fees for new members, monthly minimum spending requirements at the club’s facilities, and additional fees for docking, storage, and maintenance services.

Additional Considerations

Some yacht clubs require yacht ownership as a prerequisite before being accepted into the club. Hence, while the yacht club membership itself might only be between $500 and $2,000, the true price of a yacht club membership might be tied to the cost of ownership of your yacht as well.

Bottom Line: Simply Ask If Interested

If you’re interested in joining a yacht club, make a list of yacht clubs that you might be interested in joining, and reach out to them via email or phone to get the most accurate and up-to-date information. Most yacht club members are quite friendly and are willing to help those who are interested in joining.

We wish you good luck in your yacht club search, and hope that you were able to find this article helpful.

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Search held for missing kayaker on Detroit River by US Coast Guard

Us coast guard search for missing man in kayak on detroit river unsuccessful.

On Sunday the search lasted several hours and continued at first light this morning.

FOX 2 (WJBK) - The US Coast Guard spent Sunday searching for a missing 63-year-old man on the Detroit River. After resuming the search at first light Monday, by 11 a.m. a representative from the Coast Guard said it had been called off and there were no plans to resume it. 

James Kuntz was on the water in his red kayak when he was reported missing Sunday.  He was seen Friday at the Detroit Yacht Club wearing a Hawaiian shirt.

On Sunday a US Coast Guard Sector Detroit issued an urgent marine information broadcast. A Coast Guard station Belle Isle small boat and a helicopter crew were used in the search.

"This morning we had the first flight search at 8 a.m. and we searched until about lunchtime," said Petty Officer Karlie Milliken. "If there is any information about this missing individual, all you have to do is contact Coast Guard or Station Belle Isle."

Members of the Coast Guard admit these searching can be emotionally difficult

"There’s a lot of emotions involved," Milliken said. "I’ve been doing this for almost 9 years. when that alarm goes off, there’s a lot of emotions that’s a human life out there and that’s what we’re here to do save lives."

Anyone with information to assist search efforts should contact Sector Detroit at 313-568-9560.

A public Facebook post about missing kayaker James Kuntz.

As the summer months approach and people gear up for boating and other water activities the Coast Guard has this warning.

"Our motto is always ready. I think people should be always ready to have their life jacket, their fire extinguisher file, a float plan, and that consists of where you’re going and letting someone know when you will be back," she said. "So if something does happen they can give us a call and we can get them back to their family."