The RNVR Yacht Club was formed in 1947 by officers of the Royal Naval Volunteer Reserve for racing Fireflies against other clubs. We now welcome members from all the armed forces, whether of commissioned rank or below, together with a limited number of civilians. We are predominantly a cruising club with over 400 members who own between them around 200 yachts, many of which are based on the south coast of England.
In 2011, the Club commissioned the well-known portrait painter and war artist, Arabella Dorman, to undertake a portrait of its Admiral, fully funded by members' individual contributions. The portrait was unveiled by Prince Michael in December 2011.
We have six sailing events, seven social events, and one training course planned within our 2026 programme, encompassing the Solent, South West, and Merseyside, ensuring there is something to appeal to all members.
Our popular Charter Rally returns to the Ionian this year, offering another excellent opportunity for shared cruising in one of the Mediterranean’s most attractive sailing areas.
Looking further ahead, 2026 will see one of our most ambitious rally cruises in many years: an accompanied passage to Northern Spain, timed to allow participants to witness a total solar eclipse in August. This promises to be a truly memorable and once-in-a-lifetime experience for those taking part.
Click here for our 2026 programme.
Membership provides opportunities to go sailing and socialise informally on members' boats and in marinas, yacht clubs and at formal venues and restaurants.
We welcome current and former members of all British and Commonwealth armed forces as well as a limited number of civilian sailors. We are a sailing club that embraces Naval ethos and traditions and provides a friendly like-minded community amongst our members.
Programme
| Date(s) | Event (on Water / Shore) | Location |
|---|---|---|
| 14 February | AGM Meeting. Lunch after the AGM | Council Room, King's College, Strand, London |
| 28 February | Northern Dinner | West Lancashire Golf Club, Liverpool |
| 29 March | Sea Survival Course | Chichester |
| 12 April* | Fitting Out Lunch | Hornet Services Sailing Club (HSSC) — Gosport |
| 25 Apr – 28 Apr | Spring Meet (W) | Yarmouth / Lymington |
| 22 May – 26 May | Solent May Rally (W) | Southampton / Cowes / Southsea |
| 4 Jun – 8 Jun | South West Rally & Dinner (S) (W) | Teignmouth / Brixham / Dartmouth |
| 25 Jun – 28 Jun | Sail East (W) | Nothney / Littlehampton / Hornet |
| 18 Jul – 28 Aug | Biscay Eclipse Cruise (S) (W) | Northern Brittany – Aviles (Spain) |
| 12 Sep – 20 Sep | Med Rally (W) | Ionian |
| 11 Oct* | Laying Up Lunch | Royal London Yacht Club Cowes |
| 28 Nov | Annual Dinner | HMS Excellent Wardroom |
| 12 Dec | Christmas Party | Civil Service Club (London) |
Join The Club
Joining the RNVR Yacht Club offers members the following opportunities:
Well-organised sailing weekends and longer cruises in UK waters, across the Channel and in warmer waters.
Excellent social events, both formal and informal, in various parts of the UK but principally in London and the South. This includes the prestigious Annual Dinner with respected guest speakers including RN Flag Rank officers.
Eligibility for a permit to wear the undefaced Blue Ensign.
Participation in Naval ceremonies to commemorate Naval history and to uphold Naval traditions.
Members may use the facilities of Hornet Services Sailing Club at Gosport and The Royal Air Force Yacht Club at Hamble upon production of their Club Membership Card. They may also gain access to Royal Ocean Racing Club in London with a letter of introduction. Similar arrangements have also been made with a number of overseas clubs.
Membership of the Club is restricted to persons over the age of 18 years who are British or Commonwealth citizens.
The Club welcomes the following:
There is also a limited membership opportunity for British or Commonwealth citizens who are likely to advance the objects of the Club and who have, or have had, a Naval or yachting connection.
The annual subscription of £35 is due on 1st April payable by Direct Debit. In exceptional circumstances, we may offer other ways to pay.
Members only
Club merchandise is available to RNVRYC members.
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Why join us?
Membership provides opportunities to go sailing and socialise informally on members' boats and in marinas, yacht clubs and at formal venues and restaurants.
We welcome current and former members of all British and Commonwealth armed forces as well as a limited number of civilian sailors. We are a sailing club that embraces Naval ethos and traditions and provides a friendly like-minded community amongst our members.
Short rallies Formal events | Pontoon parties Helping hands | Cruises and charters Socialising |
