Written By Ben Bryk with Vero Premier Properties a signature division of Coldwell Banker Global Luxury
Nestled along the serene shores of the Indian River Lagoon in Vero Beach, Florida, the Vero Beach Yacht Club (VBYC) stands as a beloved local institution. As it celebrates its centennial in 2026, this private, members-only social club continues to embody its welcoming motto: “For Fun and Friendship.”
Here’s a glimpse of the club’s timeless waterfront charm, where boats dock peacefully against the backdrop of the lagoon:
A Century of Maritime Roots
Chartered on January 15, 1926, the club has deep ties to Vero Beach’s pioneering history. In 1938, visionary local leader Waldo Sexton donated the land for the current site — a prime three-lot parcel north of the Barber Bridge, right beside the city marina. That same year, a group of business leaders, including Sexton, established the club to develop dockage and compete with rail transport for goods like fertilizer and cement along the waterway.
Early days were humble: members enjoyed potluck dinners, fish fries, and boat races under a simple pavilion. It wasn’t until 1963 that the club opened its first dedicated clubhouse — a cozy 60-by-40-foot building featuring a lounge, waterfront porch, pool room, kitchen, and restrooms.
Take a step back in time with this vintage aerial view of the city marina from the 1940s, capturing the early waterfront era:
Over the decades, thoughtful expansions transformed the space: the Burgee Room (added in 1981 and expanded in 1993), an upgraded kitchen and dining areas, a 24-slip dock, additional parking, and a spacious covered patio with bar overlooking the water.
The Heart of the Club: Camaraderie and Community
What truly sets the VBYC apart is its vibrant, unpretentious culture. As General Manager and COO Shawn Witmer (at the helm since 2013) describes it, the club is a “diamond in the rough” — lacking extravagant amenities like pools or gyms, but offering unmatched year-round dining, entertainment, and genuine friendship.
The waterfront bars (indoor and outdoor) are lively hubs where everyone knows your name. Dining ranges from casual light bites to gourmet seasonal dishes crafted by Executive Chef Rodney Smith, with popular Sunday brunches served on the patio or in the elegant Burgee Room.
Members and guests mingle in relaxed style, whether in boat clothes or black tie — it’s all welcome here:
The calendar stays packed with live music, dancing, themed parties, guest speakers, club outings, and meaningful community service. Signature initiatives include annual teddy bear drives for local hospital kids, food drives for the county pantry, shoreline cleanups, and maintaining Boat Club Island (a spoil island adopted in 2016).
Festive gatherings and toasts among friends — including past commodores and staff — capture the club’s warm spirit:
Boating Privileges and Lasting Traditions
While only about 11% of members own boats, the nautical connection runs deep. Many join for the atmosphere of being around boats and fellow enthusiasts. The club’s membership in the Florida Council of Yacht Clubs (FCYC) and the Yachting Club of America provides incredible reciprocity: free dockage and services at dozens of clubs across Florida and over 700 nationwide.
Past commodore Jim Stanley cherishes cruising his Grady-White Express along the coast and Bahamas, tying up and feeling instantly at home.
Classic traditions endure — the Blessing of the Fleet, Change of Command ceremonies, and the Commodore’s Ball — creating a comforting sense of continuity for members from all backgrounds.
Looking Ahead: A Milestone Celebration
As the club enters its second century, incoming Commodore Jane Booth (the seventh woman to hold the role) is leading 100 days of festivities starting January 9, 2026. Highlights include tribute band concerts, historical “Skipper’s Table” dinners, a public-invited boat parade and Blessing of the Fleet, and a grand finale with fireworks.
The club is also investing in the future with a $1 million dock replacement project, featuring modern composite materials, better lighting, wider piers, and larger slips.
Members aboard a beautiful 55-foot Kadey-Krogen, enjoying the camaraderie that defines the VBYC:
After a century, the Vero Beach Yacht Club remains shipshape — a welcoming haven where friendships flourish, boats are celebrated, and community thrives. Here’s to many more years of fun on the water!
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