Kinsale Yacht Club

Since 1950 Kinsale and its yacht club have both played an important part in the development of Irish sailing.

The open sailing waters to the East of the Old Head and the lower estuary of the Bandon River half way along Ireland’s South Coast, coupled with the prevailling South Westerly winds and the Gulf Stream, yield some of the best tidal, rough and smooth water racing venues anywhere in the world, all just a short sail from the yacht club’s own 400-berth marina and the Bandon River’s moorings.

Club members, of which there are more than 600, race Cruisers, One Design Keelboats Catamarans and Dinghies. The club runs inshore and offshore races, has an active cruising scene, a nascent powerboat section and most significantly for any real club, a strong and dynamic junior training programme.

Located downtown Kinsale, and only a few minutes walk from every shop, hotel, pub and restaurant in Ireland’s gourmet capital, the club’s own facilities are numerous. Beyond the club’s own marina is the club house itself and the dinghy park. Within the clubhouse are changing rooms, bar and restaurant all with full wheelchair access. The club’s full-time secretariat, steward and marina manager are there to look after sailing visitors and members alike in a relaxed, informal and fun environment.

The club welcomes new members and has always got room on its members’ yachts for newcomers to the sport.