I Want to Join the BYC!
The Buffalo Yacht Club presents prospective members with many options and opportunities to expand their horizons in the boating world and to enjoy fine dining and recreational facilities. Camaraderie is a hallmark of our membership.
If you are considering applying and have need of further information, please write to the following address or call the main office (716-883-5900 x201) during normal business hours Monday through Friday.
Buffalo Yacht Club
1 Porter Avenue
Buffalo, New York 14201-1097
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the membership procedure?
A sponsoring member requests two sponsor forms for the prospective member, giving the
club the name of the other sponsor. When the two completed forms are turned into the
office, the prospective member is mailed an application. When completed and returned,
with a check, in the appropriate amount, his or her name is posted for ten days. The
applicant is subsequently interviewed by the membership committee, and if the response is
favorable, the candidate is voted upon at the next board meeting.
I am not a boater, can I still join?
There is a very active Social Membership that enjoys good fellowship in the restaurant, bar,
and at the many club functions. Boat ownership is not required to join the BYC.
I am a boater, can I get a slip?
The BYC has a limited number of slips at Porter Avenue and at Point Abino. The availablity
varies annually. Upon joining, the member notifies the Fleet Captain in writing of his or her
desire to be placed on the priority list a Porter Avenue, Point Abino or both. Assignments
are made each Spring based on these priority lists.
What type of food and beverage facilities are available?
Porter Avenue provides complete luncheon and dinner menus, as well as a full service bar
and can cater parties for up to 180 people.
Point Abino has no prepared food, but does have do-it-yourself facilities, including stoves,
ovens, a microwave, refrigerators, ice, indoor and outdoor dining tables and outdoor gas
grills for member use. The Big House or party room may also be rented for private parties.
Is a member able to access other clubs?
Yes. Reciprocal agreements exist with most area yacht clubs and with the Cherry Hill
Country Club for use of the restaurant and bar. The Buffalo Canoe Club will, in addition, as
a courtesy, undertake boat repairs. Incidentally, most yacht clubs throughout the world
will grant you temporary privileges allowing you to use their facilities – just remember your
membership card.
Are there swimming and tennis facilities available?
Yes. At Point Abino there are two professional tennis courts, a large swimming pool, a
wading pool for small children, and a separate ten person jacuzzi.
Does the BYC have a junior sailing program?
Yes. The club, at a modest cost, conducts a summer junior sailing program at Point Abino
using professional instructors and the club’s own fleet of state-of-the-art training sailboats.
Can my son/daughter join on his/her own?
Yes. Children or grandchildren are encouraged to join as Junior Members without any
initiation fee. They can remain a Junior Member until the age of 23, if enrolled in full-time
school.