About

Salcombe Yacht Club (SYC) has a rich history dating back to its founding on November 12, 1894, when eight gentlemen—including Charles Rodick, E. Hopkins, Dr. Arthur Pearce, and others—established the Salcombe Sailing Club. By the spring of 1896, it was renamed Salcombe Yacht Club (SYC). 

In 1921, Captain Andrew McIlwraith founded the Cliff House Trust, providing SYC with a permanent home in the historic Cliff House. 

Throughout the 1920s and 1930s, yacht racing flourished, with SYC developing its own sailing classes, notably the beautiful 20ft A-class yachts, along with B and C class dinghies. 

The annual regattas became popular events, drawing large crowds to watch the races. Today, SYC continues to thrive, offering top-quality racing and active encouragement of younger members through dedicated cadet training. 

The Solo, Merlin Rocket, Laser, and Salcombe Yawl fleets form the backbone of club racing, alongside a strong Handicap Class fleet. The club remains housed in part of Cliff House, enjoying one of the most splendid views in Salcombe.

For a more detailed account of SYC's history, you can read the full article HERE