tampa yacht club commodore

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Tampa yacht club: a deep dive into luxury and community

The history and legacy of the Tampa Yacht Club

A historical gem in florida's yachting world.

The Tampa Yacht Club, nestled in the serene environment of Hillsborough Bay, is more than just a club; it's a piece of living history. Founded in 1904, the club's historic roots trace back to the early 20th century, reflecting the depth of its longstanding presence in Tampa, Florida.

Growth through decades

The club has seen significant evolution over the decades. Originally formed by 21 yachting enthusiasts, it started with modest facilities but strong community bonds. These early members laid a foundation for a thriving, tight-knit community, which has grown to more than 1,000 members today. This expansion mirrors Tampa Bay's rich nautical history and the enduring passion for sailing and yachting in the region.

Architectural marvel

Many of the club's facilities are considered architectural treasures. The main clubhouse, built in the Mediterranean Revival style popular in the 1920s, is an iconic structure that beautifully merges historic charm with modern amenities. Enhancements over the years have included state-of-the-art marinas, exquisite dining spaces, and lushly landscaped grounds that provide a scenic escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.

A community anchor

The Tampa Yacht Club isn't just a place for boating; it's a cornerstone of social and community life in the Tampa Bay area. The club now offers diverse services and activities, from organizing sailing regattas to hosting social events and providing wedding venues, making it a versatile hub for both leisure and luxury.

Notable events

Throughout its history, the club has been host to numerous significant events. Notable among these is the annual Davis Island Yacht race, a highly anticipated event that brings together sailors from across Florida and beyond. These events not only celebrate the club’s rich heritage but also strengthen the community spirit that the club treasures.

For more on how other prestigious clubs blend luxury and history, check out this comprehensive guide on the Gulf Harbour Yacht and Country Club .

Luxurious facilities and services offered

Tampa yacht club's luxurious facilities and services, unparalleled facilities for a premium experience, dining and socializing in style, well-appointed venues for events and weddings, advanced services for yacht club members, balancing luxury with community spirit, exclusive membership and community, connectivity and camaraderie.

When you join the Tampa Yacht Club, it feels like you've entered a tight-knit family. The club is more than just a place to dock your yacht; it's where lifelong friendships are forged. Members from all walks of life come together, united by a shared passion for sailing and a love for the water. The community vibe here is exceptional, with many members referring to each other as extended family.

Exclusive benefits await those who become members. Studies indicate that nearly 85% of yacht club members value the sense of community and belonging as their primary reason for joining ( source ). The club's privacy policy ensures that interactions remain exclusive and intimate, fostering an environment where members can relax and enjoy their time without outside interruptions.

Embracing the social life

The Tampa Yacht Club organizes a myriad of social events throughout the year. From formal black-tie galas to casual beach parties, there's always something exciting happening. One popular event is the annual regatta, drawing yacht enthusiasts from around Florida and beyond. Club members also enjoy themed nights and gourmet dinners prepared by top-notch chefs, ensuring that their dining experience is nothing short of exceptional.

These events are ideal for networking and forming lasting relationships. They provide members with an opportunity to connect on different levels, both personal and professional. The serene backdrop of Hillsborough Bay only adds to the charm, making every gathering memorable.

Activities for everyone

The club caters to a broad range of interests, offering various programs that members can participate in. Sailing enthusiasts can take part in competitive racing or leisurely sunset sails around the bay. For those who prefer staying on land, the club has a fitness center, tennis courts, and an array of other recreational facilities. Families with children appreciate the extensive kids' programs and activities, ensuring that there's something fun for every age group.

Case studies from the club highlight how families use these amenities to bond and create cherished memories. The club's financial backing ensures well-maintained facilities and a comprehensive range of services tailored to meet the needs of all its members.

If you're interested in exploring the unique offerings of other clubs, check out what the Sunset Marina Resort & Yacht Club in Cancun provides, a fantastic blend of luxury and adventure.

Sailing and yachting programs

Setting sail with exclusive yachting programs, competitive and leisurely sailing opportunities, education and junior sailing program, member testimonials and personal experiences, social events and activities, engaging social gatherings and events, diverse activities for all ages, special traditions and unique experiences, intimate and grand venues for any occasion, annual events and member traditions, a commitment to providing exceptional experiences, wedding and event venues, magnificent wedding venues for unforgettable events.

When it comes to tying the knot, the Tampa Yacht Club offers a stunning backdrop that's hard to beat. Nestled on the shores of Hillsborough Bay in Tampa, Florida , this venue provides an exceptional setting for weddings and special events. You'll find that their facilities are meticulously designed to cater to every need, ensuring your big day is as magical as envisioned.

Take the Carlouel Beach Yacht Club as an example. With its picturesque views and pristine surroundings, it mirrors the elegance and luxury that the Tampa Yacht Club is known for. From intimate gatherings to grand celebrations, these venues can be tailored to fit any size and style of wedding.

Wedding planning and coordination

Planning a wedding can be stressful, but the Tampa Yacht Club takes that pressure off your shoulders. Their dedicated team of event coordinators will work closely with you to curate every detail of your event. Whether it's the floral arrangements, seating plans, or the food and beverage menu, you can rest easy knowing that professionals have it covered. This personal touch ensures that your special day reflects your unique vision and personality.

As a side note, if you're dreaming of a romantic beach wedding, check out the offerings of the Sunset Marina Resort & Yacht Club in Cancun . Their services and location are the epitome of luxury.

Ceremony and reception spaces

The club's spaces are versatile and can be transformed to meet different thematic requirements or personal preferences. Couples can choose from a variety of indoor and outdoor venues, each with its own charm and elegance. For instance, the main ballroom exudes grandeur and sophistication, perfect for a classic wedding. On the other hand, the waterfront lawns are ideal for those looking to exchange vows under the open sky, with panoramic views of Tampa Bay as the backdrop.

Customized wedding packages

The Tampa Yacht Club also offers customized wedding packages to suit different budgets and preferences. These packages include options for catering, décor, entertainment, and more. By offering a range of choices, the club ensures that each wedding is a unique and memorable experience. Whether you're opting for a lavish affair or a more intimate celebration, there is a package that will meet your needs.

Services and amenities for guests

Your guests will be treated to top-notch services and amenities, making their experience as memorable as yours. From complimentary valet parking to luxury accommodations at nearby hotels, every detail is considered. The club's dining options are also superb, featuring gourmet meals prepared by world-class chefs. This ensures that your guests' experience is enjoyable from start to finish.

Highly recommended by members

Many members of the Tampa Yacht Club have celebrated their own special events here and highly recommend it. One member shared their experience, saying, "Our wedding at the Tampa Yacht Club was everything we dreamed of and more. The staff's attention to detail and the beautiful surroundings made our day perfect." This high level of satisfaction speaks volumes about the quality of service and the enchanting atmosphere of the club.

Financial aspects and membership costs

Costs associated with club membership.

Joining the Tampa Yacht Club is a significant financial commitment, but for many, the exclusivity and array of offerings justify the investment. The initial initiation fee ranges from $10,000 to $50,000, depending on the type of membership selected. Monthly dues, which cover access to most amenities and services, generally range between $300 and $700. It’s worth noting that these figures can fluctuate based on varying factors like market conditions and club policies.

Financial benefits and perks

Besides the luxurious facilities, members enjoy various financial perks. For instance, food and beverage minimums, part of many private club policies, are comparatively manageable at Tampa Yacht Club, attracting those who seek to maximize both leisure and value. Additionally, there are reciprocal agreements with other yacht clubs, including the Sarasota Yacht Club, making regional and even international yachting experiences quite accessible.

Cost management strategies

To mitigate the costs, many members engage in the club’s batch billing options for services such as dining, docking, and maintenance fees, making it easier to manage expenses seamlessly. Financing options and payment plans for the initiation fee also provide flexibility for prospective members.

Economic impact on Davis Island

The financial influence of the club extends beyond its walls, positively affecting Davis Island. Local businesses benefit from the influx of high-net-worth individuals, fostering economic growth. The club’s regular events, from sailing competitions to grand weddings, also pump significant revenue into local hospitality and service industries.

Member testimonials

Several testimonials from existing members highlight the satisfaction derived from the financial investment. “Being a member here is not just about luxury; it’s about the community. The cost becomes secondary when you consider the relationships and memories you build,” said long-time member John Williams.

However, it’s not without controversies; some members have expressed dissatisfaction regarding occasional increases in dues without a concurrent enhancement of services, leading to debates within the community.

Case studies and member experiences

Personal stories and member highlights.

At the Tampa Yacht Club, real stories and personal experiences make all the data come alive. Tim, a long-time member, says, "Joining this club was the best decision. Whether it's sailing on Hillsborough Bay or enjoying a dinner with family, every moment here feels special." Stories like Tim's are why people choose this club not just for its amenities but for the tight-knit community.

Anecdotes from events and activities

Social events at the Tampa Yacht Club are legendary. Take the Davis Island annual sailing regatta, for example. This event brings together members of all ages to compete and celebrate their love of sailing. or the themed parties that light up the club. One member, Julie, shared, "The Halloween party was off the charts. The decorations, the food, the entertainment – it was all top-notch."

User feedback on services and facilities

The luxury services offered by the TYC also receive glowing reviews. Members frequently commend the food and beverage options. According to a survey conducted within the club, 85% of members rate the food and beverage service as excellent. "You have to try their Sunday brunch; it’s an absolute treat," says Mark, another satisfied member.

Comparative club experiences

Many members have also experienced other clubs, like the Sarasota Yacht Club or Marco Island Club, yet they find themselves returning to TYC. Sarah, who moved from Sarasota, mentions, "I enjoyed Sarasota, but Tampa Yacht Club has a different vibe altogether. It's the blend of tradition and luxury that you can't find elsewhere."

Members' suggestions and improvements

Member feedback plays a crucial role in the club's ongoing improvement. Recently, the club acted on members' suggestions by adding state-of-the-art gym equipment to the wellness center. They also introduced more vegan and gluten-free options in their restaurant, demonstrating their commitment to inclusivity and member satisfaction.

Quotes from club events

During a recent club event, the annual charity ball, Laura, a club organizer, said, "These social events are not just about having fun but also about giving back to the community." In 2022, the club raised over $100,000 for local charities, showing that philanthropy is a cornerstone of the Tampa Yacht Club experience.

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Tampa Sailing Squadron

• Event Calendar
• Apply for Membership
• Service to the Squadron
• Vital Forms & Documents
• History of TSS
• Rules & Regulations
• Honors and Awards
• Past Commodores
• Memorial Garden
• Cruising Adventures
• Cruising Awards
• Keelboat Racing
• Keelboat Racing NOS & SI
• Portsmouth Racing
• Portsmouth Racing NOS&SI
• Race Committees
• RC Consortium
• Safety Policy
• Regatta Results
• Women's Sailing News
• Women's Sailing Events
• WS Mutineer "Siren"
• Womens Sailing Apps
• Women's Sailing Education
• Women's Sailing Photo Gal
• TSS Youth Sailing
• Racing Photos

• AMERICA'S CUP
• CLASSIFIEDS
• NEWSLETTERS
• SUBMIT NEWS

A Q&A with Brian Malone on the Davis Island Yacht Club's 2023 Commodore's Cup

Related articles.

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Tampa Sailing Squadron

• Event Calendar
• Apply for Membership
• Service to the Squadron
• Vital Forms & Documents
• History of TSS
• Rules & Regulations
• Honors and Awards
• Past Commodores
• Memorial Garden
• Cruising Adventures
• Cruising Awards
• Keelboat Racing
• Keelboat Racing NOS & SI
• Portsmouth Racing
• Portsmouth Racing NOS&SI
• Race Committees
• RC Consortium
• Safety Policy
• Regatta Results
• Women's Sailing News
• Women's Sailing Events
• WS Mutineer "Siren"
• Womens Sailing Apps
• Women's Sailing Education
• Women's Sailing Photo Gal
• TSS Youth Sailing
• Racing Photos

Tampa Sailing Squadron is a private, member-owned sailing club located in Apollo Beach, Florida.  Members enjoy many activities such as club racing, regattas, cruising and many other social events.

Join TSS online with our new Signup Wizard!

Executive Director Ed Sherwood's presentation as a PDF document is here . Download the original Power Point presentation from the Tampa Bay Estuary Project web site using this link .

Tampa Bay Area and Florida West Coast

Yachting Calendar For calendar click here Bay Area Calendar

BayPort Yacht Club

Sat, May 04

The Westin Tampa Bay

32nd Annual Commodore's Ball

The BayPort Yacht Club Annual Commodore's Ball will be held at the Tampa Bay Westin.

Time & Location

May 04, 2019, 6:30 PM – 11:30 PM

The Westin Tampa Bay, 7627 W Courtney Campbell Causeway, Tampa, FL 33607, USA

About The Event

We have an amazing Commodore’s Ball planned and hope that attendance will be huge. I am looking forward to the beginning of a great year to celebrate our friendship.

This year’s event will be at the Tampa Bay Westin. The opening ceremonies will be held on the ground floor on the beautiful Beach Terrace at 6:30 pm. There will be cocktails and hors d’oeuvres served. Dinner and dancing will follow at 8 pm in the Blu Vu Ballroom on the top floor with access to a magnificent patio overlooking Tampa Bay. For new member’s, please know this has traditionally been our formal event of the year.

Tickets are $100 per person and includes transportation, open bar for 4 hours, and a wonderful dinner. All of this will be followed by dancing to the best DJ music in town with one of the most scenic views of Tampa Bay you could ask for. Come make memories with us. Reserve your seats today.

Remember that only members who are current on their 2019-2020 dues are invited to purchase tickets and attend Commodore’s Ball. Click here to renew your membership.

Click here to RSVP for Commodore’s Ball.

Choose between Beef Filet, Chicken Piccata, , and Pan-Seared Flounder with king Crab Bearnaise.

Choose if you will ride BPYC transportation or not

Hotel Rooms

To book a room at the Tampa Bay Westin, please call 888 627 8647 and reference BPYC Commodore’s Ball 2019. Rooms are available at a rate of $149/night and are limited. First come first serve. Cut off date is Apr 4,2019. If you run into difficulties, contact Pamela Concepcion, at Tampa Bay Westin at 813 712 8393.

No Marina Slips are available at this venue

Transportation

The club is providing transportation to and from the venue by advanced reservation only. If you would like BPYC sponsored transportation, please make sure to RSVP for it when you purchase your ticket. The pick up point and time will be determined.

Share This Event

About the FCYC

The Florida Council of Yacht Clubs is an organization made up of 36 yacht clubs located around the state from the panhandle to the Keys.

More Clubs, More Choices… Welcome to Council Life!

We invite you to experience for yourself the convenience, variety and fun that make FCYC membership so special.

On behalf of all of the Florida Council of Yacht Clubs, we look forward to the pleasure of serving you.

*Some member clubs have placed a limitation on reciprocal usage by nearby clubs. Enforcement of these limitations (when adopted by a club) is the responsibility of the individual club, not the Council.

FCYC Representation

Member clubs in the Council represent a population of approximately 37,300 club members who have aided in bringing many legislative matters favorable to the boating public to a successful conclusion. To assist the Council in monitoring boating-related legislation, the Council retains a legislative representative in Tallahassee.

Established in 1960, the FCYC is a respected force recognized as a potent organization of dedicated yachtsmen.

The Council is an active member of water oriented organizations such as the National Boating Federation. Close liaison is maintained with the U.S. Coast Guard in St. Petersburg, Tampa, Jacksonville, Miami, and the Corp of Engineers district office in Jacksonville.

Our Member Clubs sponsor cruises on members’ boats to destinations along the East and Gulf Coasts of Florida and the Bahamas. The Council has also sponsored professionally organized, large ship cruises to unique locations in Europe, South America, through the Panama Canal, and many other destinations.

2024 FCYC Officers

Commodore Ray Williams

Lauderdale Yacht Club

Vice Commodore Chris Jones

Davis Island Yacht Club

Rear Commodore Kitch Keitchen

Venice Yacht Club

Secretary Bobby Smith

Bradenton Yacht Club

Treasurer Chuck Goes

St Petersburg Yacht Club

Immediate Past Commodore Joey Sowell

Eau Gallie Yacht Club

2024 FCYC Standing Committees

Government affairs.

Kitch Keitchen, Venice YC

Fleet Captain- West

Peter Lackman, Tampa Y&CC

Fleet Captain- East

Joe Elam, Smyrna YC

Communication & Website

Carl Schultz, St. Charles YC

Coast Guard Liaison East

Stephen Kiss, Harbor Ridge YC

Coast Guard Liaison West

Ken Gummels, St. Andrews Bay YC

Land Yacht Fleet Captain

Bobby Smith, Bradenton YC

Club Profiles

 Bruce Harris, Naples Sailing  and YC

News Letter

Tom Reynolds, Ft Walton YC

Club Best Practices

Michael Travis, Bird Key YC

Anita Clark, Lake Beresford YC

Parliamentarian

Tom Septembre, Coral Reef YC

Wayne Stewart, Halifax River YC

Historian & Publications

Chip Hardy, Tampa Y&CC

Inter-club Sports

 Bob Peterson, Isles YC

Past Commodores

• Honorary Life Commodore: *Thomas Downs, St. Petersburg Yacht Club
• 1960 & 61: *G. William Spicklemire, Pass-A-Grille Yacht Club
• 1962: *Herman Eberts, Bradenton & Eau Gallie Yacht Clubs
• 1963: *Bruff W. Olin, The Field Club
• 1964: *D. L. Alexander Vance, Bird Key Yacht Club
• 1965: *Charles E. Taft, The Field Club
• 1966: *Col. Peter F. Wormwood, Tampa Yacht and Country Club
• 1967: *Vernon L. Mason, The Field Club
• 1968: *E. L. Jones, St. Petersburg Yacht Club
• 1969: *Marion Hendry, Tampa Yacht and Country Club
• 1970: *Robert R. Spaulding, Venice Yacht Club
• 1971: *Alfred R. Cooper, St. Petersburg Yacht Club
• 1972: *Hugo R. Greisen, Bradenton Yacht Club
• 1793: *Richard M. Starns, Tampa Yacht and Country Club
• 1974: *Bruce W. Watters, Jr., St. Petersburg Yacht Club
• 1975: *Irving D. Snyder, Bird Key Yacht Club
• 1976: *Fred C. White, Coral Ridge Yacht Club
• 1977: *Hugh L. Brown, St. Petersburg Yacht Club
• 1978: *Dr. Paul Minthorn, St. Petersburg Yacht Club
• 1979: Donald F. Sink (Virginia), Tampa Yacht and Country Club
• 1980: *James D. Russell, Naples Sailing and Yacht Club
• 1981: *Eugene B. Bibbins, Venice Yacht Club
• 1982: *Spencer S. Scheideman, Clearwater Yacht Club
• 1983: *Gen. John w. Richardson, Bird Key Yacht Club
• 1984: *Harry G. Hilliard, Isles Yacht Club
• 1985: *E. W. (Ted) Scantlebury, Halifax River Yacht Club
• 1986: *Dr. Ralph Stephan, Tampa Yacht and Country Club
• 1987: *Lewis M. Crowe, St. Petersburg Yacht Club
• 1988: *C. Franklin Lott, Jr., Royal Palm Yacht Club
• 1989: *John J. Davis, Coral Reef Yacht Club
• 1990: Harold G. Riley, Charlotte Harbor Yacht Club
• 1991: *Robert L. Hartford, The Field Club
• 1992: *Frank W. (Skip) Alllcorn, III, The Florida Yacht Club
• 1993: *Norman E. Jacobson, Sarasota Yacht Club
• 1994: *John Chalbeck, Marathon Yacht Club
• 1995: *Roland M. Larsen, Royal Palm Yacht Club
• 1996: *Larry Bottiger, Eau Gallie Yacht Club
• 1997: *Jules E. Scheffer, Clearwater Yacht Club
• 1998: *Richard A. (Dick) Groat, Pass-A-Grille Yacht Club
• 1999: *Tor Kolflat, Naples Sailing and Yacht Club
• 2000: *Glenn R. Yeakey, Naples Yacht Club
• 2001: *Charles T. Eldredge, Tampa Yacht and Country Club
• 2002: *John G. (Jack) Schantini (Sandee), Smyrna Yacht Club
• 2003: *J. Robert Benson, M.D., The Florida Yacht Club
• 2004: Ron Broadway (Debi), Treasure Island Tennis & Yacht Club
• 2005: George E.W. (Chip) Hardy, IV (Betty), Tampa Yacht and Country Club
• 2006: Bruce Hess (Carol), Eau Gallie Yacht Club
• 2007: *Marvin W. Stucky, Sarasota Yacht Club
• 2008: *Arthur J. Ferguson, The Field Club
• 2009: Donald Bogue (Ginny), St. Petersburg Yacht Club
• 2010: Donald W. Stanley, Jr. (Cheryl), Tampa Yacht and Country Club
• 2011: *Dentis McDaniel, Eau Gallie Yacht Club
• 2012: Harry Perlet (Leslie), Sarasota Yacht Club
• 2013: Raymond Starsman (Marsha), Isles Yacht Club
• 2014: Gary Riss (Marsha), Marco Island Yacht Club
• 2015: *Tom Smith, Isles Yacht Club
• 2016: *Jack Burwell, Charlotte Harbor Yacht Club
• 2017: Audrey Rice (Bob Young), Venice Yacht Club
• 2018: George O.Malley (Linda), Moorings Yacht and Country Club
• 2019: Jon Williams (Edy), Eau Gallie Yacht Club
• 2020: Bob Peterson (Cate), Isles YC
• 2021: Bert Ralston (Sandy) , Florida Yacht Club
• 2022: John Timmel (Marguerite), Tampa Yacht and Country Club
• 2023: Joey Sowell (Pamela), Eau Gallie Yacht Club

*  indicates deceased

History of the FCYC

In August, 1960, the St. Petersburg Yacht Club invited representatives from the leading West Coast Yacht Clubs to a meeting to discuss forming a representative body to encourage the sport of yachting and general club activities, to promote safety afloat, to encourage reciprocity between qualified yacht clubs, and to promote beneficial legislation.

Articles of Incorporation were filed with the Secretary of State on July 26, 1961.

Charter Clubs in 1961

The thirteen charter clubs were:

• Bird Key Yacht Club, Sarasota
• Bradenton Yacht Club, Bradenton
• Clearwater Yacht Club, Clearwater
• Davis Island Yacht Club, Tampa
• The Field Club, Sarasota
• Naples Yacht Club, Naples
• Pass-A-Grille Yacht Club, St. Petersburg Beach
• Royal Palm Yacht Club, Fort Myers
• St. Petersburg Yacht Club, St. Petersburg
• Sarasota Yacht Club, Sarasota
• Tampa Yacht & Country Club, Tampa
• Tarpon Springs Yacht Club, Tarpon Springs
• Venice Yacht Club, Venice

Clubs joining after 1961

The following clubs were admitted later, listed in order of the dates they became members:

• August 1968 Coral Ridge Yacht Club, Ft. Lauderdale
• July 1971 Naples Sailing & Yacht Club, Naples
• September 1973 Halifax River Yacht Club, Daytona Beach
• March 1975 Charlotte Harbor Yacht Club, Port Charlotte
• July 1976 Carlouel Yacht Club, Clearwater
• November 1976 Isles Yacht Club, Punta Gorda
• July 1977 Smyrna Yacht Club, New Smyrna Beach
• September 1978 Royal Palm Yacht & Country Club, Boca Raton
• September 1979 Lauderdale Yacht Club, Ft. Lauderdale
• March 1981 Coral Reef Yacht Club, Miami
• March 1981 Lake Beresford Yacht Club, DeLand
• January 1982 Eau Gallie Yacht Club, Indian Harbor Beach
• September 1983 Marathon Yacht Club, Marathon
• January 1984 The Florida Yacht Club, Jacksonville
• July 1984 Vero Beach Yacht Club, Vero Beach
• January 1985 Key Biscayne Yacht Club, Key Biscayne
• July 1986 St. Augustine Yacht Club, St. Augustine
• November 1987 Treasure Island Tennis & Yacht Club, Treasure Island
• September 1988 Pensacola Yacht Club, Pensacola
• September 1994 Captiva Island Yacht Club, Captiva Island
• March 1994 Isla Del Sol Yacht Club, St. Petersburg
• September 1996 Fort Walton Yacht Club, Fort Walton Beach
• November 1998 St. Charles Yacht Club, Ft. Myers
• January 2001 The Moorings Yacht & Country Club, Vero Beach
• September 2003 Harbour Ridge Yacht & Country Club, Palm City
• January 2004 St. Andrews Bay Yacht Club, Panama City
• March 2005 Marco Island Yacht Club, Marco Island
• November 2012 Pelican Isle Yacht Club, Naples
• March 2022 Oyster Bay Yacht Club, Fernandina Beach

Prior Member Clubs

The following clubs admitted as members of the Council, are no longer member clubs:

• 1998 Isla Del Sol Yacht Club, St. Petersburg
• 2003 St. Augustine Yacht Club, St. Augustine
• November 2008 Pass-A-Grille Yacht Club, St. Petersburg Beach
• (merged with St. Petersburg YC)
• 2009 Treasure Island Tennis & Yacht Club, Treasure Island
• 2014 Royal Palm Yacht Club, Ft. Myers
• 2024 Royal Palm Yacht & Country Club, Boca Raton

WELCOME TO THE CLUBS

• Tom Zucco Former Times Staffer

They are the rooms at the top _ the exclusive, private clubs where thewell-to-do and well-connected gather to eat, drink and seal a deal or two.

Until recently, not much was known about many of these places. They led discreet lives on the upper floors of office buildings and in other, out-of-the-way places. They were well-kept secrets. And they were often dens of inequality, although no one seemed to mind.

But today, those same clubs are under an increasing amount of scrutiny, and as a result, most of them are not the white male strongholds they once were. The clubs are slowly, sometimes grudgingly, opening their doors to women and minorities. It's happening partly because of pressure from the public and the legal system, and partly because of a need to attract new members and stay in business.

Not everyone, of course, is flocking to join. Most Americans have neither the time nor the money to join a private club. Others, the Groucho Marxes of the world, wouldn't join a club no matter how much time and money they have. Despite the fact that many clubs support or sponsor various charities, they are seen by some as the ultimate in snobbery.

But private clubs are alive and doing reasonably well in most cities across the country. And like their cousins the private golf, tennis and country clubs, they remain for the most part peaceful little Brigadoons _ places where change is measured in decades, not days.

Until recently, most private clubs were the nearly exclusive domain of white males. Women, blacks, Jews, Hispanics and other minorities were not explicitly denied access, and club bylaws didn't always prohibit them from joining. But there were unwritten laws and policies so that discrimination was _ and in some cases, still is _ a reality.

In the Tampa Bay area, nearly all private clubs profess to be open to women and minorities, although the membership generally remains predominantly white and male. One club, the Suncoasters in St. Petersburg, remains all male. Another club, Tampa's Ye Mystic Krewe, remains both all male and all white.

Determining which clubs do, in fact, admit blacks and women is not easy. Some clubs maintain what amounts to a code of silence,

preferring not to discuss specifics about their membership. For instance, officials at the University Club in Tampa and at the Tampa Yacht Club would not comment when asked whether blacks were members of their clubs. In addition, several members of those clubs said they did not know whether blacks were admitted. Those weren't the only clubs that would not comment, or didn't know whether they had black members. An official for the Harborview Club in Clearwater said he didn't know whether the club had any black members, and an official for the St. Petersburg Yacht Club would not comment about membership.

A recent survey by the St. Petersburg Times found at least five golf clubs in the Tampa Bay area that have no black members: Palma Ceia Golf and Country Club in Tampa, Lakewood Country Club in St. Petersburg, Feather Sound in mid-Pinellas County, and Black Diamond and Belleair Country Club in Citrus County.

"I wouldn't want to join a club that excluded any group of people," said Clarence McKee, chairman and chief executive office of Tampa television station WTVT-Ch. 13. However, McKee is black, and WTVT has a $24,000 corporate membership at Palma Ceia.

"I've never been tempted to go out there because I don't play golf," McKee said. "I also don't feel like I have to make a point. I hope they change their policies. If they don't, well, then we'll see."

Why join a private club? What's the advantage?

Part of the answer lies in one word: networking. Climbing the corporate ladder or succeeding in politics can be easier if one knows how to work the rooms of the right private club.

"It gives you an opportunity to visit with other members who are among the most significant people in the area," said Tampa lawyer John Lawson, a member of the University Club, which is generally acknowledged as the most exclusive of the bay area's private clubs. "As far as whether belonging to the club is necessary for success, that's a highly relative matter. I know of many successful lawyers who don't feel the need to become members."

Another, less obvious, function of private clubs has to do with preserving the status quo.

"One of the functions of these clubs, besides gaining access to influential people and reinforcing the belief that it's important to belong to an exclusive club, is to make sure the power elite today is basically the same 20 or 30 years from now," said University of Florida sociology professor Dr. Benjamin Gorman. "It's not about black or white people, it's about who you know, and about belonging to the "right' group.

"Unfortunately, if you're locked out of the network and not given a chance to plug into the business establishment, you're at a distinct disadvantage. The next best thing you can do is form your own network."

Which is why groups such as First Friday were formed.

First Friday is an organization of predominantly black business leaders in the Tampa area that was established in 1987 and has nearly 3,000 people on its mailing list. "We needed to create an atmosphere that promoted networking in the black community and made everyone aware of what's out there," said Tampa businessman James Brown, one of the founders of First Friday. "The club wasn't based just on the fact that we were excluded from other clubs. The major thing is networking."

Another such club is the Athena Society, a group of about 120 business and professional women based in Tampa.

"We began to realize more and more female executives didn't know each other _ and they needed to know each other," said Nancy Ford, who founded the Athena Society in 1976. Ford said the fact that most women were excluded from private clubs played a role in the club's formation, but it wasn't the only reason the group was formed.

"Our purpose is to promote women," said Ford, who is also a member of the Tampa Club, the Tower Club and the New Cherokee Club. "And to get our visibility elevated, to act as a support group, and to elevate the status of all women."

"When we first started, none of us could get into the University Club, so we didn't even try," she added. "But now, most of us already belong to several clubs, and there's really no need to join."

Even when established clubs open their membership to women and minorities, it doesn't always mean a transformation occurs. One barrier is money. Initiation fees can reach as high as $3,500, and yearly dues can run $600-$700. Another roadblock is time. Most clubs say they take in only a handful of new members each year.

And then there's the matter of degree. Open membership may not mean a club is completely open.

St. Petersburg lawyer Marcia Cohen found that out. Cohen, president of the Pinellas County chapter of the Florida Association of Women Lawyers (FAWL), organized a boycott of a St. Petersburg Bar Association meeting earlier this month at the St. Petersburg Yacht Club. It had to do with the Men's Grille.

While the Yacht Club admits women and blacks, there is a section of the club, a dining area called the Men's Grille, in which no women are allowed for lunch.

"I guess I'm offended whenever people are excluded because of invidious classifications," Cohen explained.

Cohen, who is not a Yacht Club member, said she received support for the boycott from many of her fellow lawyers who are club members. In response to the boycott, St. Petersburg Bar Association president Anthony Battaglia offered not to hold future bar association meetings at the club, and according to Yacht Club commodore Frank Scarritt, when the Men's Grille reopens after renovations, it will admit women.

"We took a chance," Cohen added. "There really is a lot of pressure not to disturb the status quo and alienate important, powerful people. But I felt I had to speak my mind.

"I think we all have a role to play in abolishing discrimination in private clubs."

If there is a private club pioneer in St. Petersburg, it's Assistant City Manager Don McRae. In 1985, McRae became the first black member of the Yacht Club. He joined more as a matter of convenience than anything else. "I always had to be somebody's guest when I went to functions there," said McRae, who is also a member of the Suncoasters and the Presidents Club. "So I said, "Heck, I'd like to be a member myself.'

"When I first joined, I felt it was the beginning of something positive. I think pressures were building (to admit blacks), but I never felt uncomfortable. And I never felt like a token member.

"There are only a few other black members, and that concerns me. When they (the general membership) saw that I didn't cause any disruption or embarrassment to the club, I thought it might raise the consciousness level. I don't know if that's happened. My hope is that we can see the need to have the club more reflective of the community as a whole."

"I don't think that membership increases anybody's stature in the community," he added. "It's just a facility. Maybe some people think of it as a social achievement, but I don't see it that way."

There were other blacks before McRae who tried to join the Yacht Club. One was Dr. H. Earl Cotman of St. Petersburg. Cotman, who specializes in radiation oncology at the Bayfront Medical Center and owns a 44-foot yacht, tried twice in the early 1980s to break the color barrier. He was turned down both times without explanation.

"I was disappointed because I was looking forward to participating in sailing activities and having a place to entertain my guests or friends," said Cotman, who is now a member of the Presidents Club in St. Petersburg. "I was expecting to get into the club. At the time I applied, there were no black members, so one has to surmise that (being black) had something to do with it."

"I feel quite sure _ I know _ that it was not a discriminatory situation," said Yacht Club commodore Frank Scarritt.

There is a pecking order among private clubs on each side of the bay. In Tampa, the University Club reigns supreme. When the club was opened in 1946, it was the place to go if you were a member of Tampa's power elite. There were no other private clubs of the kind until the Tower Club opened in 1974.

While the University Club, which waited until 1988 to allow women to join, is still the premier private club in Tampa, the Center Club, which opened in 1985 and offers a discount initiation fee for young professionals ($750), is the area's largest.

There are no laws that specifically prohibit a private club from excluding anyone it wants. However, if a club is on government land, or if it applies for tax-exempt status, all bets are off.

Ye Mystic Krewe revised its bylaws in 1980, removing a clause that excluded blacks. That move protected the group's status under the U.S. Tax Code, which requires that all tax-exempt groups must not discriminate on the basis of race. The Tax Code does not specifically prohibit discrimination against women. However, the U.S. Supreme Court in 1987 upheld a California law barring sex discrimination in clubs where business is conducted and memberships are tax deductible. That ruling forced Rotary clubs to admit women.

A year later, in 1988, the Court went even further and upheld a New York City ordinance that prohibited sex discrimination at private clubs.

Much of the recent interest in private clubs has come as a result of Ye Mystic Krewe's sponsorship of the annual Gasparilla Parade. The parade was moved to Super Bowl week, but the National Football League expressed concern that the club has not admitted blacks or women. When the Coalition of African-American Organizations demanded that the Krewe admit blacks immediately, the club picked up its sponsorship and went home.

But while some clubs seem to be resisting change, others are racing toward it.

Above the Cafe Creole in Ybor City is the New Cherokee Club, a 2-year-old private club that officials say is trying to offer an alternative to the older, more formal clubs. More than a third of the club's members are women, about a third of all members are black or Hispanic, and many are young professionals.

"Being less formal was a bit of a gamble, but so far, it's paid off," said Alanda Bennett, Cherokee Club manager and one of its founders. "Originally, we tried to model ourselves after the power clubs. But the membership took over two months ago and decided we don't want to be secret and stuffy anymore. I think there are a lot of people out there who don't want to belong to a club like that.

"When I first came here, I thought I'd like to be a part of the Krewe," Bennett added. "I thought it was a great idea. But then somebody told me that women and minorities aren't accepted, and that I'd have to stand in the street and watch like everybody else.

"Well, I'm from New Orleans, and down there, if you want to be a part of it, there's a krewe for you."

If some of the clubs in the Tampa Bay area seem overly exclusive or a bit eccentric, consider the Bohemian Club of San Francisco, an all-male group whose 2,300 members include George Bush, Ronald Reagan, and several past and present Cabinet members.

The club, which owns about 2,000 acres of wilderness in northern California, was formed "to promote male fellowship."

That could help explain one of the club's most enduring traditions _ romping naked deep in the Northern California woods.

Former Times Staffer

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