Island Harbour Yacht Club (IHYC)
Club information
- Country: United Kingdom
- Town/City: Island Harbour
Island Harbour Yacht Club (IHYC), situated at Island Harbour Marina on the Isle of Wight, is a vibrant community hub for sailors and boating enthusiasts. Founded in 2013, the club fosters inclusivity and camaraderie among residents, berth holders, and visitors through social events, boat jumbles, and charity fundraisers. Located along the picturesque River Medina, about one mile upstream from Cowes, it offers a serene yet strategic base for exploring the Solent. Its welcoming atmosphere and diverse membership—open to sailing boat, motorboat owners, or those without vessels—make it ideal for visiting sailors.
IHYC is managed by a dedicated committee, including Commodore Roger Bowley and Heather Bowley, ensuring a rich program of activities. The club supports a dinghy compound and Ryde Sea Cadets, providing training and facilities for young mariners. For visitors, the marina offers over 200 berths, including short-term options, a 50-ton hoist, slip crane, and hard standing for maintenance. Richardsons Yacht Services provides a chandlery and workshop, while amenities like luxury showers, laundry, free Wi-Fi, and car parking enhance comfort. A new cycle track to Newport and riverside walks add recreational appeal, with easy access via Island bus routes.
Social facilities include a stunning riverside setting, partnerships with local yacht brokers (Boatshed IOW, Waypoint, Cowes Yacht Agency), and discounts from Richardson’s Yacht Services, Bob Holt’s sailing courses, M2M fenders, and Boatshed Isle of Wight. Safety and skill development are prioritised through RYA-aligned training. Visitors can join with an application form signed by two members, gaining access to this supportive community.
A recent highlight is The Salterns, a newly reopened restaurant at Island Harbour Marina. Relaunched on June 16, 2025, by Janice Crump and Andrew Watts, it replaces the former Breeze, closed since 2022. Drawing from the marina’s historical salt-making past, The Salterns offers a warm, community-focused dining experience with home-cooked meals using fresh, local ingredients, including vegan and vegetarian options. Its refurbished space includes a large function room and outdoor seating with a heated veranda. This addition enhances the marina’s appeal, providing visiting sailors with a delightful culinary stopover.
