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Annapolis Yacht Club

Ratings and reviews, location and contact.

We had a wonderful meal at AYC last evening. Our server was gracious and knowledgable. She paced our meal perfectly. The drinks were excellent. The Cream of crab soup and oysters Rockefeller were delicious. Our entrees of salmon, soft shell crabs (3), and scallops were... beyond perfection. And the view of Spa Creek from our table was to die for! If you are fortunate enough to belong, receive reciprocity as a visiting member from another yacht club (as we were), or be a guest of a member, you are certain to experience an unparalleled dining experience! More

Had dinner here on a Friday evening before a Navy football game. The lobster bisque soup was great. I had the salmon entree which was also very good. The restaurant was totally full and service was somewhat slow. We were fine with that as not... pressed for time on pleasant Friday evening. View of bay also very nice. More

We had the special Friday night - prime rib. The Queen size was huge. Magnificent cut. Prepared perfectly. Very attentive waitress. Great vodka gimlets as well. Kudos to the bartender too!

I am appalled at the presence of a private club on this site. I am further appalled that some members and guests have rated it a “5” so many times that it’s now in the Top Ten in Annapolis. I can’t get in there. About... 99.999% of the readership of this site will never be able to judge the quality of Annapolis Yacht Club for themselves. Why? Because it’s a private club. I’ve lived in Annapolis since 2003, and have been in there twice, once for a wedding in 2004 and once when I volunteered to help out on a regatta hosted by the club. The food and drink were okay but nothing spectacular. Staff can be snooty, especially if you have the impertinence to not remove your hat upon crossing the threshold. If you want an excellent meal with a great view and what is truly the best Cream of Crab soup in the area, go to Carrol’s Creek on the other side of Spa Creek. Or walk down another block or two and dine at the Chart House. You might need reservations at either place, but you don’t need a membership card. More

I walked in there because my husband had a corporate party at this place same day, few hours earlier. I talked to three people, got a table and even a chair for my 7-month old when they announced that I need to be a member... to dine there. I complained to the manager and they kicked me out with an infant on my hands anyway!!! No apology, no empathy. Never been so embarrassed. Shame on you, the yacht club! More

A private, exclusive club but feel free (as far as I'm concerned) to show up and demand a table. For those of you who aren't familiar, for about a ten grand entrance fee plus a few thou a year you too can join the prestigious... AYC. If you enjoy rubbing shoulders with a bunch of blue blazer wearing, WASPy, ascot sporting Stuffy Stuffersons, this is your place. In fairness, the view is nice and crab soup is divine. Happy sailing. More

This is a members-only club and we were able to use it through reciprocity with another club. First of all, the club has a breathtaking view of historic Annapolis and the harbor! We had drinks in the lower (first level) bar and dining room, and... then had dinner in the upper dining room. Same menu in both areas. I had the fresh fish special and my wife had the crab cakes--both were prepared perfectly and were outstanding dishes. The service and wine list matched the quality of the food! With the view, setting, and outstanding food, not sure that this venue can be beat in Annapolis! More

The AYC has the best food, service and ambiance in Annapolis - and has for many years. We shared the Oysters Rockefeller - a favorite of ours. For the main course, my wife had the salmon, and I had the Filet Mignon. For dessert, I... forget what we had, but I remember that it was great. Also, they serve a brown bread as part of their bread course, and it's always my favorite. We love the view on the 2nd deck, but it's even better on the 3rd deck, which is where we ate this time. More

Beautiful location within easy walking distance of town center. Great bar downstairs and upstairs dining room had wonderful views. You would will experience great seafood here. Local fish prepared perfectly

Was here over the weekend with friends that are members. For those of you that have been to private clubs, you know the drill. Same prime rib and stuffed baked potatoes. (Do they still make those)? Anyway, that is not the case here. This venue... is at the top of their game! Yes being a private club it can be a little stuffy, however, the staff does not make you feel that way. The view is the best in Annapolis and the menu had a very nice selection from seafood to chops etc.....You will actually dine here and not be rushed out the door. Also the dress code is business casual so that takes the edge off of the typical old world club atmosphere. My advice.......make friends with a member! More

Along with beautiful views, AYC offers excellent service at multiple bars and dining rooms. Vast menu; salads, soups, seafood, lighter fare, etc.

Service very good. Food is always fresh and delicious. Wine selection terrific. Bar downstairs was lively.

My wife and I shared the Oyster's Rockefeller - the best I've ever had, anywhere. For the main course, she had the crab cakes - always a winner for years & years. I had the wasabi tuna, which is a favorite of mine. For dessert,... we shared the Smith Island cake. We'll definitely return, as you can't beat the food and the service. Once we're back in our "home' location, you won't be able to beat the view either. More

Even though the view is not quite as good from the temporary location, the service is still excellent and the food was great. Parking out front was easy the evening we went. We were seated right away even though we arrived early. The cream of... crab soup was outstanding as were the crab cakes! My guests really enjoyed it. More

Had Easter Sunday brunch and it was perfect. Lots of food stations so no waiting in lines and a huge selection of quality food beautifully presented. The wait staff were all friendly and quick to remove plates and refill glasses. Could not have been better!

ANNAPOLIS YACHT CLUB - Restaurant Reviews & Photos - Tripadvisor

• Atmosphere: 4.5

Annapolis Yacht Club

Stories from the Annapolis Yacht Club

Annapolis Yacht Club 2 Compromise Street Annapolis, MD 21401-1866 (410) 263-9279

Website: http://www.annapolisyc.com/

VISIT AYC'S VIDEOS PAGE

Founded as an informal canoe club in 1883, the Annapolis Yacht Club has built a tradition of excellence.  Our mission is to encourage and support a wide range of boating activities, and to provide and maintain a suitable clubhouse and associated facilities for the recreational and social use of its members.

ANNAPOLIS YACHT CLUB FOUNDATION BECOMES NSHOF FOUNDING MEMBER

From the AYC Foundation President:

The Annapolis Yacht Club Foundation is pleased to announce its decision to be a Founder of the National Sailing Hall of Fame in Annapolis. Our foundation looks forward to the National Sailing Hall of Fame enjoying much succes in the near future. We are pleased to be involved with your effort.

Michael R. Krissoff

Video: Bridging Three Centuries: A Contemporary History of Annapolis Yacht Club.

Take a look at the people, the tradition and the camraderie that make up the community of Annapolis Yacht Club.

About 1 hour.

125 Years on the Water

Humble Beginnings

In 1904, the first records of meetings indicate a membership of 30. In 1910, the first wharfs were built, and the first club manager was hired in 1911 at a salary of $15 a month. Members began to acquire small sail boats and organize club regattas. These were uncomplicated affairs held on Memorial Day and Labor Day. Shell and canoe races started up Spa Creek at Old Woman Cove and ended at the Eastport Bridge. There were also swimming races and diving competitions. The club owned several single and double shells, two four-oared shells, and was given an eight-oared shell in 1911 by the US Naval Academy.

A Post-War Renewal

World War I and the depression slowed boating activities until the mid-30s. A hurricane damaged the clubhouse and the wharf was reduced to pilings in 1933 and it was difficult to keep the club’s quota of 100 resident members. By 1936, there seemed to be little interest by members in the club and changes were needed. With renewal in mind, in 1937 the Annapolis Yacht Club was incorporated and the first formal regatta (Annual) was held that year. The Fall Series first year was in 1940 with five boats competing. World War II interrupted organized racing, but in 1946 the Spring Series was started with three classes – 30 Square Meters, Stars and Chesapeake 20s. By 1948, Moths, Comets and Hamptons were also taking part. The Annapolis to Newport Race (Newport to Annapolis back then) started in 1947 and has been run every two years since. A dining room was added to the club in the late 1940s and in 1948, the first Smoking Lamp newsletter appeared as a single page mimeographed sheet.

The Junior Fleet

The junior fleet started in 1948, and the first junior trophy was presented in 1953. The first junior boat, Dolphins, were replaced by Penguins, which were next followed by 420s which the junior fleet still races.

Wednesday Night Races: An Annapolis Tradition

Wednesday Night Races were the brainchild of P/C Gaither Scott. After seeing the Wednesday Night Races at East Greenwich YC in Rhode Island in 1958, Scott inaugurated midweek racing at AYC in 1959. No race committee, no prizes, no scoring but there was a picnic supper after sailing. “S” boats, H-23s, 5.5 meters, Bermuda One Design and Rainbows raced, but interest waned in the mid-60s. To correct this, smaller classes of boats were invited and in 1965 35 boats entered the series. By 1967 112 boats were taking part.

Frostbite Racing

Frostbite racing began in the winter of 1962-1963. Seven Rainbows were the inaugural class with five short races a day, starting and finishing at the club. Gladiators joined Frostbite racing in the fall of 1963 and MORC made the third class in 1964. The first Hangover Bowl (New Year’s Day) was on Jan. 1, 1966.

A Need for Growth

By 1959, membership had risen to 1000 and a new club building was badly needed. This was opened in 1963, with the first deck left unfinished due to lack of funds. Frostbite and Wednesday Night Racing soon demanded more club social space, and the Skipjack Lounge was finished in 1969.

More than a Club...

Today, AYC is at full membership (1600 regular members) with very active social, racing, and cruising programs.  Large international events such as the Star Class World Championship, Rolex International Women’s Keelboat Championship, and many North American championships are hosted every year at AYC. Harborside is filled with one design boats (J/22s, J/24s, Etchells, Stars, Melges 24) while the in-the-water boat slips are in high demand. AYC is known worldwide thanks to the members who are prominent in participating in, promoting, and organizing the sport of sailboat racing, as well as those who opt to leisurely cruise the waters of the Chesapeake and beyond.

BACK TO YACHT CLUB STORIES PAGE

AYC | Dockage | Accommodations | Provisions | Urgent Care Facilities |  Helpful Information​

Annapolis Yacht Club (AYC)

annapolisyc.com

AYC was founded in 1886 as an informal canoe club. Today, the Club's mission is to encourage and support a wide range of boating activities and to maintain facilities for the recreational and social use of its 2000 members.

The Annapolis Yacht Club is a full service, year-round premier private yacht club that provides high-quality programs for its members. These include sailboat racing, cruising for sailors and power boaters, a vigorous junior sailing program, fun, and educational winter activities, social events, and first-class dining and facilities.

AYC is a prominent fixture in Annapolis, is a good corporate citizen, and provides select opportunities for non-members such as its Junior Sailing program. In addition, AYC's Race Committee supports club racing, regional, national and international championships. AYC members are pleased to welcome these competitors and other visiting yachtsmen to the Clubhouse and sailing facilities.

History Club Guidelines

Race Headquarters: Annapolis

Annapolis Yacht Club

Race Headquarters for the Annapolis Newport Race is at the Sailing Center of the Annapolis Yacht Club located at 510 Severn Avenue, just over the Spa Creek Bridge from the Main Clubhouse. 

Registration, Tracker Pick Up, and Official Race Merchandise will be available at the Sailing Center. Please see the Sailing Instructions for the Registration schedule. 

Guest cards for AYC are available to all non-members visiting the Club for the race. Guest cards will be available and can be organized at the Front Desk of the Main Clubhouse at 2 Compromise Street.  

Dockage and Local Knowledge

Annapolis Dockage

Annapolis City Marina – Spa Creek

Annapolis Yacht Basin- Spa Creek

Horn Point Marina - Back Creek

Eastport Yacht Center - Back Creek

Safe Harbor Annapolis  - Back Creek

Annapolis Landing Marina – Back Creek

Port Annapolis Marina - Back Creek

Bert Jabin’s Yacht Yard – Back Creek

Liberty Marina – South River

For Mooring Information in Annapolis Harbor, contact the Harbormaster 

PORTBOOK - The Source for Annapolis and Newport Marine Services

Local COVID 19 Guidelines

This is not a comprehensive list of all resources, but may be useful​

State of Maryland 

Anne Arundel County

Accommodations

We are working with local hotels on room blocks - please come back to this section after the first of the year.

Local Grocery Stores

Giant Food  – full-service grocery store located in the Bay Forest Shopping Center. 948 Bay Ridge Rd.

Fresh Market  – small grocery store with prepared food selections, located in the Annapolis Harbor Center. 2504 Solomons Island Rd.

Graul’s Market Annapolis  – a small grocery store, excellent sandwiches, and bakery items, located in West Annapolis. 607 Taylor Ave.

Giolitti Italian Delicatessen  – specialty Italian market – prepared foods and sandwiches, wine selection, located across from Whole Foods Market at Annapolis Towne Center. 2068 Somerville Rd.

Whole Foods Market  – gourmet foods grocery store, prepared foods, located at Annapolis Towne Center. 200 Harker Pl Ste. 100

Trader Joe’s Market  – signature grocery items, frozen food selections, located adjacent to Annapolis Mall. 160 F, Jennifer Rd.

Catering/Breakfast and Lunch Options​

Bread and Butter Kitchen  – (410-202-8680) 303 Second St. in Eastport.

Eastport Kitchen  – (410-990-0000) 923 Chesapeake Ave

Wine, Beer & Spirits

Bay Ridge Wine & Spirits  – 111 Hillsmere Dr.

Eastport Liquors  – 1007 Bay Ridge Ave.

Wine Cellars of Annapolis - 1410 Forest Drive

Fawcett Boat Supply  – 919 Bay Ridge Rd.

West Marine  – 113 Hillsmere Dr.

Bacon Sails and Marine Supply  – 116 Legion Ave.

Urgent Care Facilities

Anne Arundel Medical Center Emergency Department

2001 Medical Pkwy

Annapolis, MD 21401

443-481-1000

West Street Medical

79 West Street

443-481-1293

Open 7 days a week 9 am - 5 pm, By appointment only

Patient First

2051 West Street

443-603-0758

Open 7 days a week 8 am - 10 pm, Walk-in

COVID-19 testing available

Righttime Medical Care

2114 Generals Hwy

410-224-6483

Open 7 days a week 8 am - 10 pm, Same-day Appointments recommended         

Helpful Information

Visit Annapolis

ANNAPOLIS TO NEWPORT RACE

Start 1: Friday, June 6

Start 2: saturday, june 7, 2025 dates are set.

Annapolis Yacht Club: Sailing Tradition and Community Excellence

Nestled along the shores of Chesapeake Bay, Annapolis Yacht Club is a historic institution that has been at the forefront of sailing tradition and community excellence since its founding in 1886. With a storied history spanning over a century, this iconic yacht club has played a vital role in the development and promotion of the sport of sailing, not only in Maryland but across the United States. Boasting a thriving community of sailors, racers, and boating enthusiasts, the Annapolis Yacht Club offers a wide range of programs and events designed to foster camaraderie, sportsmanship, and a love for the sea. In this article, we'll take a closer look at the history and legacy of the Annapolis Yacht Club, as well as the many ways in which it continues to promote and advance the art of sailing to this day.

From Humble Beginnings to International Recognition

The Annapolis Yacht Club (AYC) was founded in 1886 by a group of avid sailors who were passionate about the sport of sailing. The club was initially situated on Spa Creek in Annapolis, Maryland, and had a small number of members. The primary objective of the founding members was to promote the sport of sailing, conduct regattas, and encourage social interaction among sailors. In its early days, the club organized several races around Annapolis to promote sailing as a sport. These races were initially held in small boats, and over time, the size of the boats increased as the popularity of the sport grew. The initial membership fee for joining the club was $5 a year, which was quite affordable for most people at the time. As the years went by, the club's membership began to grow, and so did its reputation. In the 1920s, the club built a larger clubhouse that could accommodate more members and provide them with better facilities. This marked a significant turning point for the club as it began to attract members from outside of Annapolis. During World War II, the club played an essential role in the war effort. Several club members joined the Navy, and the club's facilities were used to train naval officers in navigation and seamanship. After the war, the club resumed its activities, and membership continued to grow. In the 1950s, the club began to organize regional sailing events and hosted many prestigious regattas. During this period, AYC became known for its competitive racing and excellent facilities. The club also became a hub for social activities, hosting several events throughout the year, including formal balls, dinners, and cocktail parties.

The Annapolis Yacht Club's success can be attributed to its commitment to excellence, community, and tradition. The club's members are passionate about sailing and have worked hard to maintain the club's reputation as one of the leading sailing clubs in the world. The club's facilities are second to none, and its racing and junior sailing programs continue to produce champions. Looking towards the future, the Annapolis Yacht Club plans to continue its commitment to promoting the sport of sailing and providing excellent facilities for its members. The club is in the process of renovating its main clubhouse to provide even more space for its members and enhance their dining experience. The club also plans to expand its junior sailing program and invest in new boats and equipment.

The Evolution of a Community Institution and its Impact on the Sport of Sailing

The Annapolis Yacht Club's evolution as a community institution can be traced back to its founding in 1886. At that time, the club had a small number of members and modest facilities. However, as the popularity of sailing grew in the Annapolis community, so did the club's membership and activities. AYC has been a fixture in the Annapolis community for over a century. It is a private club, but membership is open to anyone who shares a passion for sailing and the water. In the early days, AYC organized regattas on Spa Creek, promoting the sport and building camaraderie among local sailors. As the club's reputation grew, it attracted sailors from other parts of the country, and its race schedule expanded to include regional events. By the 1920s, the AYC had outgrown its original clubhouse, and it built a new facility that could accommodate a growing membership. The club's focus shifted towards social events, and it began to host formal balls, dinners, and cocktail parties throughout the year. These events became an important part of the Annapolis social scene and helped to establish AYC as a beloved community institution. During World War II, the Annapolis Yacht Club played a vital role in the war effort. Many of its members joined the Navy, and the club's facilities were used to train naval officers in navigation and seamanship. After the war, the club resumed its activities, and membership continued to grow.

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Admirals Annapolis Yacht Club

Founded in 2000.

The AAYC was founded in 2000 and serves a community of power boaters, sail boaters, and active members who love the Chesapeake Bay!    Our club hosts a variety of land and water based social activities throughout the year.

The AAYC is a member of the   Chesapeake Bay Yacht Club Association (CBYCA). Clubs within the association extend reciprocal privileges to CYC members. CYC is also on the Register of American Yacht Clubs ,  which affords our members reciprocal privileges at clubs around the country.

Read the charming story of how the AAYC was formed and the history of the members who dedicated time, resources, and libations to get it all going! 

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Annapolis Yacht Club

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Annapolis Yacht Club

annapolisyc.org

2 Compromise Street

Annapolis , MD 21401

(410) 263-9279

AYC’s beginnings were in 1886 as an informal canoe club.

Humble Beginnings In 1904, the first records of meetings indicate a membership of 30. In 1910, the first wharves were built, and the first club manager was hired in 1911 at a salary of $15 a month. Members began to acquire small sailboats and organize club regattas. These were uncomplicated affairs held on Memorial Day and Labor Day. Shell and canoe races started up Spa Creek at Old Woman Cove and ended at the Eastport Bridge. There were also swimming races and diving competitions. The club owned several single and double shells, two four-oared shells, and was given an eight-oared shell in 1911 by the US Naval Academy.

A Post-War Renewal World War I and the depression slowed boating activities until the mid-30s. A hurricane damaged the clubhouse and the wharf was reduced to pilings in 1933, and it was difficult to keep the club’s quota of 100 resident members. By 1936, there seemed to be little interest by members in the club and changes were needed. With renewal in mind, in 1937 the Annapolis Yacht Club was incorporated and the first formal regatta was held that year. The Fall Series’ first year was in 1940 with five boats competing. World War II interrupted organized racing, but in 1946 the Spring Series was started with three classes – 30 Square Meters, Stars, and Chesapeake 20s. By 1948, Moths, Comets, and Hamptons were also taking part. The Annapolis to Newport Race started as Newport to Annapolis in 1947, and has been run every two years since. A dining room was added to the club in the late 1940s, and in 1948, the first Smoking Lamp newsletter appeared as a single page mimeographed sheet.

The Junior Fleet The Junior Fleet started in 1948 with six Dolphin sailboats. In 1953, the first Fleet Trophy was presented to Nancy Scofield, and interest in the Junior Fleet brought hundreds of young sailors onto the water. By the late 1960s, International 420s were replacing the vintage Dolphins, and the Club’s record in the early ’70s included many Chesapeake Bay championships and North American Junior trophies. Members of AYC’s Junior Fleet have gone on to become successful racers.

Wednesday Night Races: An Annapolis Tradition Wednesday Night Races were the brainchild of P/C Gaither Scott. After seeing the Wednesday Night Races at East Greenwich YC in Rhode Island in 1958, Scott inaugurated midweek racing at AYC in 1959. No race committee, no prizes, no scoring, but there was a picnic supper after sailing. “S” boats, H-23s, 5.5 meters, Bermuda One Design, and Rainbows raced, but interest waned in the mid-60s. To correct this, smaller classes of boats were invited, and in 1965, 35 boats entered the series. By 1967, 112 boats were taking part.

Frostbite Racing Frostbite racing began in the winter of 1962-1963. Seven Rainbows were the inaugural class with five short races a day, starting and finishing at the club. Gladiators joined Frostbite racing in the fall of 1963, and MORC made the third class in 1964, when the Board of Governors officially recognized the Frostbite Series as an official event. The first Hangover Bowl (New Year’s Day) was on Jan. 1, 1966.

More than a Club… In December 2015, Annapolis Yacht Club’s Main Clubhouse at 2 Compromise Street suffered a fire. A temporary clubhouse was then opened, where operations continued until the reopening of the Main Clubhouse in September 2018. The Sailing Center, which opened in early 2019, is the new home for the many sailing activities that will define AYC sailing for years to come. Next to open in the summer of 2019 was the Activity Center, complete with swimming pool and full outdoor access for families to enjoy recreational activities that cater to members of all ages. These modern properties will be significant as we continue to expand services, programs, and events for our members and participating yacht clubs with the full support of a fabulous staff and volunteer membership.

Today, AYC is at full membership (1600 regular members) with very active social, racing, and cruising programs. Large international events such as the Star Class World Championship, Rolex International Women’s Keelboat Championship, and many North American championships are hosted every year at AYC. AYC is known worldwide thanks to the members who are prominent in participating in, promoting, and organizing the sport of sailboat racing, as well as those who opt to leisurely cruise the waters of the Chesapeake and beyond.

Quick Links

Getting Here

The Sailing Museum & Hall of Fame

365 Thames Street

Newport, RI 02840

401.324.5761

[email protected]