In the Fall/Winter of 2001/2002, a number of boating residents of Stonington began discussing the possibility of forming a new yacht club. After sending questionnaires to individuals with boats in Stonington Harbor, it was determined that sufficient interest existed to pursue the formation of a club. The result was the incorporation of the Stonington Harbor Yacht Club, Inc in May 2002. After an open admissions period of six weeks, the club had attracted 174 Founding Members. This number grew to almost 300 by the end of 2003.
The Club's Certificate of Incorporation states in part that: "...the purpose of the Corporation is to: encourage and support the sport of yachting, the art of yacht design and building, the science of seamanship and navigation; and to help maintain the quality of the waters on which we boat." Reflecting on these guidelines the Board of SHYC established the following Mission Statement for the Club:
The mission of the Stonington Harbor Yacht Club is to foster in our membership a spirit of excellence in boating activities.
The three key word/phrases are: Membership which we want to be family oriented and diverse with a demonstrated interest in boating; Excellence where we want to be recognized for our professionalism and integrity; and, Boating Activities where we will emphasize racing, cruising, safety, and environmental responsibility.
The Club has established itself as a member of US Sailing and the Eastern Connecticut Sailing Association and has established a Race Committee for Club sponsored events as well as for the Race Rock Regatta in 2003. The Club sponsored a junior and adult sailing program that began in the Summer 2003 that is available to member children and youth from the Stonington community. This junior program will initially involve instruction in Optimist prams, but will expand to other racing boats as demand dictates. Additionally, the Club is attempting to place moorings in other harbors for use by our cruising members.
During its initial season the Club hosted a Commissioning Ceremony; several cruises, rendezvous and picnics; and several Fall social events and sailors evenings during the Winter months.
