Owning the yacht is only half the story. The real prestige, the real luxury and status, comes from your membership in a yacht club. Of course, for the super-rich and successful, not just any old yacht club will do – and thankfully, there are several establishments in the great harbour cities of the world, which cater for the most discerning, the most demanding, and most exclusive yacht owners out there. History, lavish decoration, extravagant bars stocked with rare wines, and the best seafood money can buy… nothing is too much in the world of super yacht clubs. Here’s a quick rundown of what you can expect from the 3 most exclusive clubs on earth.

 

New York Yacht Club

With a list of past members which reads like a who’s who of US Royalty, including Franklin D. Roosevelt, the New York Yacht Club of Rhode Island is held as the ultimate in American wealth and decadence. Founded in 1844, it’s housed in a stunning and lavishly decorated clubhouse overlooking Newport harbour, and is said to be one of the most difficult clubs to get into anywhere in the world.

 

Yacht Club de Monaco

It comes as no surprise that a Monte Carlo establishment would be on this list – after all, Monaco is the spiritual home of the super-rich and luxurious. This is the only yacht club in the world where applicants have to be approved by royalty; the president is none other than Prince Albert II, who looks through potential new members once per year. Once you’re in, though, you’re part of a truly international elite – with over 900 members from 44 countries, this is a sparkling array of the global glitterati.

 

Royal Yacht Squadron of the Isle of Wight, UK

The British know how to do luxury in style, and there’s something still delightfully rugged about this naval yacht club, based on the beautiful Isle of Wight, which is just off the south coast of England. Exclusive and hard to enter, the ‘admiral’ of the club is Prince Philip (Queen Elizabeth’s 95 year old husband), and members are given permission by the crown to fly the white naval ensign from their vessel.

 

Cruising Yacht Club of Australia

With over 2,500 members, this Australian yacht club is the biggest and most prestigious down under. Members get to benefit from the beautiful club house and stunning restaurants, and can also take part in a number of small, enjoyable races along the coastline of New South Wales.