Columbia Yacht Club

On this day in 1893, the World’s Columbian Exposition opened in Chicago.

Just a year earlier, Columbia Yacht Club was founded. Growing alongside a city on the rise.

What began as a one-room shed on an 18 × 35 ft barge quickly grew into a larger floating clubhouse, laying the foundation for a long tradition of sailing, racing, and connection on the water.

In the early 1900s, the Club became a lively hub for gatherings, celebrations, and community—before World War I brought a pause and the loss of its original structure.

134+ years later, we’re still on the water and continuing on building our community.

Soft colors, strong love 💕⚓️ Just in time for Mother’s Day, meet our newest hat. Featuring pastel tones and sailing flags that spell out MOM.

Whether you’re celebrating a mom, a soon-to-be mom, or treating yourself, this one’s made with you in mind 💐

Available now at the Club shop. Grab yours before they sail away!

Soft colors, strong love 💕⚓
Just in time for Mother’s Day, meet our newest hat. Featuring pastel tones and sailing flags that spell out MOM.

Whether you’re celebrating a mom, a soon-to-be mom, or treating yourself, this one’s made with you in mind 💐

Available now at the Club shop. Grab yours before they sail away!

New windbreakers just hit the Clubship!
Quarter-zip windbreakers:
• Multiple colors
• Lightweight + perfect for breezy dock days
• Packable into a pouch

Full-zip windbreakers:
• Navy + red
• Removable hood

Stop by and grab yours before they’re gone 👏

Q: What happened on April 15, 1983, in Columbia Yacht Club history?

A: Ninety bondholders joined the delivery crew as the new clubship, the MV Abby, was moored in the Chicago River turning basin after arriving at Navy Pier the night before.

Did you know one of Columbia Yacht Club’s historic Clubships once sank right at the dock?

The SS Florida, a 213-foot excursion steamer purchased in 1937, caught fire on Friday the 13th in 1955 after flames broke out in a kitchen ventilator. To stop the blaze, firefighters made the difficult call to flood the vessel—causing it to sink.

But what happened next is what truly defines the Club.

After being raised, members stepped in themselves. Removing mud bucket by bucket and helping restore the ship. The Florida was rebuilt with a new superstructure and went on to serve members for nearly three more decades, until 1983.

A powerful reminder that Columbia Yacht Club is built on resilience, community, and dedication. On and off the water.

New Features this weekend from Chef Nick & the crew! See you at the Abby

Meet our Mini & Me Collection 👜⚓️💕 Designed for wherever your day takes you-from the docks to daily errands.
Available now in two sizes (the larger style includes a zipper)

Thank you for sharing this Linda 🩵
Stories like this are exactly what make Columbia Yacht Club so special. What starts as a love for the water often turns into something even more meaningful. A community, lifelong friendships, and a place to truly belong.

We’re so grateful to have members like you who make the Club feel like home

Some things never go out of style 🍸Good company, a proper martini, and gear that looks like it’s been around since the best of days at the Club. Our newest vintage drop is coming soon...stay tuned.

Limited Time Drop ⚓🧢
1892 Snapback & Adjustable Hats now available.

Classic colorways. Timeless style.
Wear your city—your way.