About RUYC

Welcome to Royal Ulster Yacht Club, a club with a distinguished sailing heritage and an enduring spirit of camaraderie and proud to be one of Ireland’s oldest and most prestigious yacht clubs.

The Club was initially established as the Ulster Yacht Club in 1866, but received a Royal Warrant in 1869 and thus became Royal Ulster Yacht Club, one of a small number of Royal yacht clubs in the United Kingdom. In 1870 the Admiralty authorised the use of the Blue Ensign with the distinctive mark of the Club thereon – namely the Red Hand of Ulster on a White shield, surmounted by a Royal Crown.

Sir Thomas Lipton chose to challenge the prestigious America’s Cup five times through Royal Ulster Yacht Club with his series of ‘Shamrock’ J Class yachts.

Our magnificent Clubhouse has commanding views over Belfast Lough and the Antrim Coast.  Designed by Vincent Craig, it is one of the finest examples of Edwardian architecture in Ireland.

Royal Ulster Yacht Club has a long tradition of cruising and world-class yacht racing.  RUYC Members participate in keelboat, dinghy and motorboat activities, with Club racing on Thursday evenings during the sailing season.

Royal Ulster Yacht Club offers a uniquely welcoming experience, our members and guests can enjoy relaxed dining and a vibrant social scene.

You are invited to discover a community where history, hospitality and a shared love of the sea come together.