Member Login

MEMBERSHIP

The Southwestern Yacht Club is delighted to welcome new applicants for Membership who share our passion for boating, socializing, and being part of our vibrant community. We offer a range of Membership options tailored to suit individuals, couples, and families, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the unique experiences our Club has to offer.

Ninety percent of prospective Members typically fall into one of the following two categories:

·         Flag Membership: This Membership is available to individuals aged 21 and older who own a boat of at least 14 feet in overall length. Flag Members are eligible to vote at Membership Meetings, hold elective office, and enter their boats in Club races.

·         Regular Membership: This Membership is open to individuals aged 21 and older who do not own a boat. While Regular Members are not eligible for elective office, they can vote on matters related to dues and assessments at Membership Meetings.

Become a Member

To become a Member of Southwestern Yacht Club, please follow our application process, typically completed within one month:

  1. Application: Complete the Membership application form.
  2. Introduction Letter: Submit a brief letter (one paragraph to one page) introducing yourself to the Membership Committee, detailing your yachting experience, and explaining why you wish to join the Club.
  3. Sponsorship: Obtain sponsorship from two active Members by having them complete the sponsorship forms.
  4. Application Fee: Pay the $100 application fee, which will be applied to your initiation fee (view the fee schedule).
After submitting these materials to the Membership & Communications Director, an interview will be scheduled with a representative from our Membership Committee.

The Membership Committee meets on the third Wednesday of each month to review applications and make recommendations to the Board of Directors. The Board then makes the final decision on the fourth Thursday of each month.

Sea Trial Program

For a limited time, discover the Southwestern Yacht Club through our six-month Sea Trial Program, where you can enjoy nearly all the benefits of full Membership—without needing sponsors or paying the initiation fee upfront. This trial is designed to help you get involved in our community, meet potential sponsors, and start to experience Membership at SWYC.

During your Sea Trial, you’ll have access to:

  • The bar and galley
  • Small boat hoist
  • Guest dock for your boat
  • All Club activities
  • The chance to connect with our vibrant club community
At the end of your Sea Trial, we’re confident you’ll want to continue enjoying everything Southwestern Yacht Club has to offer. When you're ready (at the end of the six months or during the six months), you can easily transition to Full Membership as a Flag or Regular Member.

Become a Sea Trial Participant

Application: Complete the Membership application form.

Introduction Letter: Submit a brief letter (one paragraph to one page) introducing yourself to the Membership Committee, detailing your yachting experience, and explaining why you wish to join the club.

Application Fee: Pay the $100 application fee, which will be applied to your initiation fee when you join a Flag or Regular Member (view the fee schedule here).
 
After submitting these materials to the Membership & Communications Director, an interview will be scheduled with a representative from our Membership Committee.

The Membership Committee meets on the third Wednesday of each month to review applications and make recommendations to the Board of Directors. The Board then makes the final decision on the fourth Thursday of each month.

View Sea Trial Program

View Our Prospective Member Documents
A Note from the Chair of Membership Committee
The last part of this process is where we get to learn about you.  Please include a short letter describing the boating experiences you have enjoyed and your interest in our club. This information in your letter  and your interview with a membership committee member will give us the information we need to act on your application and move it along it to the SWYC Board of Directors for your final approval. Please don't forget to fill in the activities page so that we can learn your interests and direct you to the committees you might want to in learn more about. Upon approval of your application, you will enjoy Conditional Membership for twelve months.

Initiation fees must be paid in full when you are approved for Conditional membership. During this exciting first year, you must meet certain requirements, including your service hours which will involve you in two club activities. Please don't worry, we're all here to help you fulfill this requirement.
 
Our entire Membership Committee is dedicated to making this process  smooth and enjoyable for you.  We look forward to meeting you soon and guiding your application along the way.
 
Upon your approval it will be our pleasure to welcome you into our SWYC family.
 
Maria Ring, 2025 Membership Chair
Contact the Membership & Communications Director
Contact Membership & Communications Director, Avery Gildner, with any questions you have regarding Membership and the application process.
 
Email: [email protected]
Call: (619) 222-0438 ext. 111