Put-in-Bay Yacht Club: Your Island Gateway to Lake Erie Boating & Social Life
Just steps from the Put-in-Bay ferry drop-off, the Put-in-Bay Yacht Club (PIBYC) welcomes you to a vibrant community of boaters, sailors, and lake lovers. This private social club on the western shore of South Bass Island offers excellent dockage, top-tier facilities, and an incredibly welcoming atmosphere.
Whether you’re an experienced yachtsman, a casual weekend cruiser, or a social butterfly looking for island camaraderie, PIBYC is a true island institution that has served generations of boating enthusiasts since 1886.
A Prime Location for Boaters
Located right near Miller Marina, the Put-in-Bay Yacht Club sits in a picturesque part of the island, providing easy access to Lake Erie’s open waters. The club promotes all types of aquatic activities—from sailing and powerboating to paddle sports and regattas—while maintaining a strong sense of community both on and off the water.
You don’t have to own a yacht to be part of the fun—just a love for boating and a passion for island life.
PIBYC Membership Benefits
Why Join the Club?
For just $292 per year, you can become a full member of the Put-in-Bay Yacht Club and enjoy exclusive perks:
– Access to private docks and clubhouse facilities
– Invitations to social events: island-themed parties, group dinners, live music nights, and community cruise-outs
– Participation in regattas, races, and aquatic sport events
– Reciprocal access to facilities at over 500 affiliated clubs across the U.S. through memberships in:
— Greater Cleveland Boating Association (GCBA)
— Associated Yacht Clubs (AYC)
— Interlake Yachting Association (I-LYA)
— Yachting Clubs of America (YCA)
🧑🤝🧑 Beyond the perks, membership means joining a friendly volunteer network that supports boating education, events, and youth engagement.
Junior Membership – Boating’s Next Generation
If you’re between 21 and 28 years old, you qualify for Junior Membership at just $100 per year. It’s a great opportunity to get involved, meet fellow young boaters, and start making lifelong connections.
The club frequently hosts “Junior Member Only” events like themed nights, mixers, and group outings designed to build community among the next wave of lake enthusiasts.
Encourage your friends to join and celebrate your youth with exclusive access and events just for you!
A Rich History on Lake Erie
Founded in 1886, the Put-in-Bay Yacht Club is one of the oldest and most storied on Lake Erie. It was established by Valentine Doller, who served as its first commodore. Originally formed to support the growing Inter-Lake Yachting Association (ILYA), the club quickly became a social and sporting hub for elite travelers across the Midwest.
– In 1923, the club acquired the historic Bay View House and developed its first major clubhouse and dock system.
– After WWII, new renovations and expansions breathed new life into the club, adding popular sailing, swimming, and youth programs.
– Today, PIBYC is best known for its Friday night dinners, annual regattas, and community cruise-outs.
📸 From vintage regatta photos to tales of summer adventures, PIBYC continues to write its legacy—one boat launch at a time.
Events, Activities & Social Life
The Yacht Club calendar is filled with events that highlight both nautical skill and island-style hospitality:
– Cruise-Outs to nearby ports
– Island Picnics with BBQs and games
– Themed Parties (Tropical Luau, Pirate Night, Nautical Nights)
– Annual Regattas for youth and adults
– Friday Night Dinners—the perfect place to catch up with members and meet new friends
No matter the season, there’s always something happening at PIBYC.
Plan Your Put-in-Bay Weekend
Whether you’re visiting for the day or planning an extended stay, pair your PIBYC experience with everything Put-in-Bay has to offer:
– Explore Put-in-Bay attractions, bars, and restaurants just a short walk from the club
– Stay nearby at Put-in-Bay resorts, hotels, or vacation rentals
– Book early for holiday weekends, regatta weeks, and special events
🧳 The sooner you book, the better your chances of securing lodging near the club for a seamless getaway!
See you at the bay! 🙂