Overview
Shelter Island Yacht Club, founded in 1886, sits on a short peninsula on Dering Harbor at the far eastern end of Long Island. It is home to the largest Herreshoff 12½ fleet in the United States, with more than 65 boats, and to Etchells Fleet 15, racing here since 1978, plus a new Sonar fleet and an active PHRF fleet that sails three club races a summer, including SIYC Race Week. Its junior program teaches more than 100 children each summer, from JY Trainers up to 420s and ILCAs. Visiting yachts from reciprocal clubs can request one of a limited number of moorings and use the club launch on VHF 74; a 160 ft pier takes larger boats for short tie-ups.
- Founded
- 1886
- Federation
- US Sailing
- office@siyc.com
- Phone
- +1 631 749 0888
On the water with VesselSOS
- Family see you from shoreA live link in any browser – they don’t need the app.
- One tap to the right rescue centreHere Coast Guard Sector Long Island Sound – the app switches centre as you move, with your position and call script even without signal.
- Return-time checkIf you’re not back in time, your people know.
- Shared hazard mapRocks, nets and other hazards reported by other boaters.
Regattas and series
Run or hosted by the club, per the club website. Dates and notices are on the club site.
- SIYC Race Weekthe club's PHRF race week
- Heatherton Trophy RacePHRF race, spinnaker and cruising divisions
- Etchells Fleet 15 summer series25-race series on Saturday afternoons, June to Labor Day
- Herreshoff 12½ Summer Seriesweekly racing with 20–26 boats on the line, mid-June to Labor Day, plus women's races and the H12 Sail About
Live map, a start clock on every phone and results — when the club runs a race on VesselSOS Racing, it shows up here. Racing is a pilot with clubs for the 2027 season.
No race running right nowSee VesselSOS RacingSailing school and courses
Boat classes
History and achievements
- 1886The club is founded on Shelter Island
- after 1918A succession of one-design fleets begins — Nationals, Stars, Comets, Lightnings, Blue Jays and more
- 1974The Herreshoff 12½ fleet starts, today the largest in the US
- 1978Etchells Fleet 15 begins racing at the club
Home harbour & location
- Position
- 41°5.20′ N 72°21.17′ W
41.08670, -72.35281 - Address
- 12 Chequit Avenue
Frequently asked
Can I learn to sail here?
Yes. The club lists these courses: Junior Sailing Program and Sonars & Adult Sailing.
Who do I call in an emergency at sea here?
Sea rescue: Coast Guard Sector Long Island Sound 911. On the radio: MAYDAY on VHF channel 16.
When was Shelter Island Yacht Club founded?
In 1886.
Which regattas does the club run?
According to the club website, among others: SIYC Race Week, Heatherton Trophy Race, Etchells Fleet 15 summer series and Herreshoff 12½ Summer Series.