The Royal Victoria Yacht Club (RVYC) will celebrate its 180th anniversary this weekend (28th and 29th June) at its Fishbourne clubhouse, honouring nearly 2 centuries of maritime heritage.
Founded on 24th May 1845 – Queen Victoria’s birthday – the RVYC has experienced 2 major eras in its history. From 1845 to 1965, it operated from the grand Prince Consort building on Ryde seafront, attracting an elite membership and international recognition.
The club’s prominence was such that the International Olympic Committee selected it to host the Olympic yacht races of 1908, including the 8, 7 and 6-metre classes. These events began and ended on the club line from Ryde Pier.
In the post-war years, the club faced significant challenges and a decline in membership. However, a 1961 merger with Fishbourne Sailing Club and Wootton Creek Sailing Club breathed new life into the RVYC. The club relocated to Fishbourne, and in 1962 a new clubhouse was formally opened by the late Prince Philip.
Today, the club thrives with a growing membership, a vibrant cadet section, and an expanding fleet including MOCRA multihulls and Scows. In 2021, HRH The Princess Royal visited to mark the club’s 175th anniversary. Artefacts from the club’s rich history remain on display in the modern clubhouse.
This weekend’s events begin on Saturday (28th June) with a special regatta sponsored by Mermaid Gin, featuring races for all types of craft including MOCRA multihulls, Scows, and Optimists. A BBQ and live music by local favourites The Accelerators will follow.
On Sunday (29th June), members’ boats will participate in a ceremonial sail past, with a salute taken from the pontoon by Commodore Helen Vrba, joined by past commodores and representatives from other Isle of Wight clubs. The flotilla, many dressed overall, will travel from the top of Wootton Creek past the clubhouse before heading out to sea.
The festivities will conclude with afternoon tea for members and guests, with a toast to both the legacy and future of this historic yacht club.
