The Commodore
Welcome to the North Shrewsbury Ice Boat and Yacht Club, where Ice Boat History is Preserved and Made.
We are unique among Ice Boat Clubs in having occupied our own clubhouse since our founding in 1880. This has enabled us to preserve an incredible amount of historical data, photographs and memorabilia under one roof, which is on open display for all members and guests to enjoy. In many ways we are the Ice Boat Mecca!
But in addition to the great contributions we have made to ice boat design, competition and history over the years, our members continue to dominate the sport into the present day. The fastest sail boats in the world today, on either hard or soft water, are the A Skeeters – also known as “Bubble Boats” for their jet plane-like bubble canopies. NSIBYC member Dan Clapp has perfected the design, building and racing of these boats to the point where he has won 9 ISA Championships to date.
The club has been a vital supporter of “The Rocket Foundation,” which has restored the magnificent 50 foot, gaff rigged, Class One Ice Yacht, “Rocket”. She was relaunched, with much fanfare, on March 1, 2014 on the Hudson Rive River. A day no member in attendance will ever forget.
The location of the club, on the banks of the beautiful Navesink River in downtown Red Bank, NJ makes it a perfect venue for its premiere regatta the “National Sweepstakes,” which is held whenever conditions permit. All classes of hard water boats are welcome.
We are current holders and defenders of “The Challenge Ice Yacht Cup of America,” also known as the Van Nostrand Cup. A piece of art in itself, created by the Tiffany Co.
With “Home Ice” there is a full schedule of races organized by the individual classes. But our members are intrepid travelers as well: to the DN World’s in Europe, to regattas in the Mid-West, Lake Champlain, Lake Winnipesaukee or closer to home. Wherever there is good ice or a major regatta, you will likely find one or more of our members there.
We pride ourselves in our dedication to Ice Boat Safety. While it is true that there is no such thing as “Safe Ice,” the NSIBYC has an ongoing education and enforcement program to assure that we operate in as safe a manner as possible.
Event schedules and ice conditions can be accessed from our Ice Line at (732) 747- 5665.
Welcome to our Club!
Sincerely,
Mike Soldati, Commodore