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BOATING
LEARN TO SAIL
A Brief History of RHYC
For nearly two centuries sailors and pleasure boaters have flocked to Hamilton Harbour, drawn by its spectacular marine condions.
The Hamilton Yacht Club was founded in 1888. In 1891 Queen Victoria consented to the inclusion of the word “Royal” in the club’s name, makling RHYC one of ten clubs in Canada to be granted a royal designation.
In 1891 RHYC was granted federal permission to build a new clubhouse beside the Burlington Canal. The clubhouse was a major landmark until it burned to the ground in 1915. In 1920 RHYC reopened at the Bay Street location and later moved to the foot of MacNab Street North – its present address.
RHYC's clubhouse and grounds have breathtaking views of the Royal Botanical Gardens and the Burlington shoreline. Proximity to the surrounding escarpment provides shelter for ones who are learning to sail but also famously interesting winds for seasoned racers and sailors. These exceptional local conditions also allow an extended sailing season from early spring to late fall.
Since 1888 RHYC has offered some of the top sailing programs in Canada. Canada’s first Olympic sailor, John Robertson Sr., came from RHYC. Our members are respected at all levels of racing and competitive sailing, winning many awards, titles and accolades.
Our proud history continues in this same tradition.
Source: “One Hundred Years and Still Sailing!” by Commodore H. Penny