About the Royal Mersey Yacht Club

The Royal Mersey Yacht Club was founded in 1844 in the reign of Queen Victoria, its first patron, making it one of the longest established Royal Yacht Clubs in the UK. For over 170 years the Club has promoted yacht racing on the River Mersey and adjoining waters.

The Club focuses on one-design keelboat racing, serving 3 distinct fleets, and enjoys what is virtually the only stretch of sheltered deep water on the west coast of England – the combination offering a unique sailing environment. There is an intensive programme of racing from April to October offering both weekday evening races and events at weekends. The Club also hosts handicap racing for cruisers and organises or participates in regattas and other events, including the Menai Straits fortnight.

The Club House is located at Rock Ferry on the Wirral, and is a few yards from the jetty that is used by the Club for access to the River. A short distance from the Mersey Tunnel and with fast links to the M56 and M53 motorways, the Club is within easy access to members in Lancashire, Cheshire, Greater Manchester and beyond, as well as to local members on Merseyside.

There is a very active social programme centred in the Club House. From the regular suppers that are served after racing to the more formal dinners and the occasional ball, the Club offers members ample opportunity for post-race relaxation and many occasions for inviting guests to social events. The Club House is also available for private functions.

Deep water moorings are organised by the club for class boats. A fleet of safety boats operates a boarding service from the jetty on all race days. Winter storage is available for members’ boats in the Club boat-yard.

Experienced yachtsmen and interested novices are particularly welcome at The Royal Mersey, and we run a series of taster & training events to establish and develop new members within the club. Visitors normally sail with a member for a few occasions before being invited to apply for membership.