On a warm summer day in June 1966 a group of yachtsmen at the BOATEL MARINA (now Tugboat) was standing on the docks having a good time laughing and telling jokes when Vernal Furbush, owner of the BOATEL, came down on the wharf and wanted to know why we didn't start some sort of a "FUN CLUB" because the group was always getting together on one boat or another having such a good time.
It was talked over amongst the yachtsmen in the Marina and adjoining docks and they thought it sounded like a good idea. We told Mr. Furbush that we would start a club and he offered us a room, in what was the old Boothbay Harbor Yacht Club, where we could hold our activities.
On September 17th, 1966 a meeting was called; an agenda was prepared so that the meeting would cover all pertinent points. At this time Janie Hart seemed to be the prime mover in getting the project into gear.
Welcome to the Down East Yacht Club. Our club has a 57 year history of making sure we have fun!
Our members are of all ages and have all kinds of watercraft, but enjoy time together making memories on the water. Whether you enjoy cruising, day trips or social events, our members are a welcoming group that find time to gather year-round.
Our summer cruise and Day Tripper events offer the opportunity to explore the Maine coast with others that have done it all before, and if you prefer land, our summer gatherings are a great place to meet and mingle.
Please look through our website.
If you are interested in the club, please reach out and we’d be glad to give you some information. Our members hail from all over New England even though we’re home-ported in Boothbay Harbor.
I look forward to our fun in 2024!
Commodore Aaron Rugh
2024-2025 OFFICERSCommodore |
2024-2025Kristen King |
Board of DirectorsMaggie Loheed P/C Aaron Rugh |
2024-20272025 2025 |
The purpose of the Down East Yacht Club is to create friendships and share boating knowledge as we participate in coastal Maine boating together. Whether under sail or power, all passionate boaters are welcome. We’re based out of Boothbay Harbor, Maine, but have members from all over the country. A full calendar of events, cruises, and get togethers is planned for the Maine boating season. And, winter gatherings happen monthly in Maine and Florida. Since we do not have an actual clubhouse to maintain, our dues are minimal.
The coast of Maine is an amazing place to explore. Our organized cruises are the highlights of membership with unique ports, breathtaking wildlife, rugged coastline, and lasting memories made with fellow boaters. It is all about having fun on the water.
BENEFITS OF BELONGING TO DEYC
Access to boating facilities, including:
Boothbay Harbor Tug Boat in-town designated dock space
Boothbay Harbor moorings
Yearly Cruises exploring the coastal waters of Maine:
Summer week-long cruise in July
3-day mini cruise in August
Monthly day trips and raft-ups along the Maine coast
A full calendar of events:
Social events happen all year long
Opportunities to meet and socialize with dedicated, fun-loving boaters of all ages
Opportunities to improve boating skills; navigation, exploration, safety and maintenance
Local community involvement, such as participation in the Boothbay Harbor Windjammer Days.
Dues are affordable ($150 annually) since the DEYC does not incur facility costs associated with a clubhouse and launch service.
MEMBERSHIP REQUIREMENTS
Must be a passionate, fun-loving boater who aspires to the goals of the DEYC
Must have an interest in boating, sail or power, and be a minimum of 21 years of age
Should be willing to volunteer at club events
Each new member shall volunteer a minimum of two DEYC events during their first year of membership
Must have two sponsors (with one sponsor writing a letter of recommendation)
Must attend a DEYC event before applying; or in special circumstances where attending an event is not possible, a conference call/interview can be arranged with the applicant and respective board and membership members.
Must fill out the attached application ($100 Application Fee) - click below to download:
STEPS TO BECOMING A DEYC MEMBER
Complete the DEYC Application, include the first sponsor letter along with the non refundable $100 application fee, and send to the DEYC office. c/o Kate Winslow P.O. Box 845, Boothbay Harbor, ME 04538
The Membership Committee will then review the application and make a recommendation to the Executive Committee.
Upon approval, from the Executive Committee, the DEYC office provides a welcome package, including web page, members only, log on details.
The first sponsor will serve as the new member “ambassador” and make introductions and ensure attendance requirements have been met.
Should there be any questions or assistance in providing membership guidance, we encourage you to reach out to our Membership Facilitator.
Need Membership info? Contact our Membership Facilitator