Club Mission Statement
“To enhance the enjoyment of boating in and around Little Traverse Bay for its members, through activities that promote racing, cruising, instruction, social activities, and fellowship” – By Laws of Little Traverse Bay Yacht Club. 1895
Club History
Little Traverse Yacht Club was founded in 1895, making it one of the oldest Yacht Clubs in the Midwest. The Club was originally founded as a sailing organization for those individuals who participated in sailboat racing on the waters of Little Traverse Bay.
During World War I, Little Traverse Yacht Club served as a substitute destination for the Chicago to Mackinac Race. The tradition still can be seen today as the LTYC Ugotta Regatta continues to be part of the Lake Michigan racing circuit. Yachts, having completed the Mac Race, often hold over in Harbor Springs for the Ugotta the weekend following the Mac.
In 1934, the Yacht Club was instrumental in the establishment of the Northern Michigan Sloop, which is still raced as one design on the Bay.
Youth education has been a focus. In 1955, a teaching club for young persons was established under the auspices of Fred Ford and evolved into the founding of Little Traverse Sailors in 1968, a non-profit entity teaching sailing to children ages 8 – 18. LTYC assists LTS in funding a scholarship program open to all children of the Emmet County School System. In 1995 LTYC started the Youth Racing Team for individuals 13 – 18.
In 1965, Little Traverse Yacht Club purchased the current clubhouse and water frontage. Remodeling the clubhouse, covering the deck, and re-design of waterfront space has greatly expanded the usefulness of the property.
Little Traverse Yacht Club sponsors one design racing, a cruising club, an Offshore Series, and the annual Ugotta Regatta, which is considered to be one of the premier Midwest events of the summer season.