Early Days The prestigious Royal Cwmtydu Yacht Club (RCYC) is very proud to be oldest boat or sailing club in The UK. Founded in 1406 by Owain Glyndwr, the first Prince of Wales, the RCYC has survived civil wars, world wars and bitter rivalry in it's illustrious 600 year history. It's prestigious list of luminaries include royalty (George V succeeded Owain after his death in 1416), academics like Wiliam Morgan (who translated the Bible in to Welsh in 1580).
Learn MoreFollowing a successful period under the stewardship of George V the RCYC became an important part of Wales's maritime industry. The main figures in Wales at that time were the two Earls of Pembroke, the Yorkist Earl William Herbert and the Lancastrian Jasper Tudor. In 1485 Jasper's nephew, Henry Tudor, landed in Cwmtydu with a small force to launch his bid for the throne of England. Henry was of Welsh descent, counting princes such as Rhys ap Gruffydd (The Lord Rhys) among his ancestors, and his cause gained much support in Wales. Henry defeated King Richard III of England at the Battle of Bosworth with an army containing many Welsh soldiers and gained the throne as King Henry VII of England.
Learn MoreThe decline of the coal and iron ore mining industry in south Wales had a direct effect on the trade through Cwmtudy and resulted in a significant decline in merchant vessels. However the Phillips family had shrewdly anticipated the market situation and had already changed the focus of the RCYC towards the growing and lucrative leisure market. Under the stewardship of the Commodore at that time, Daniel James (known to all as 'Danny Cwmtydu), and with backing and advice from the Phillips family, the club made a huge investment in to developing modern facilities to attract wealthy yacht owners and their vessels.
Learn MoreThe Royal Cwmtudy Yacht Club's auspicious beginnings have played no small part in attracting a wide range of Officers and Members from royalty, the arts, entertainment and politics. From the very elite of high society to the local members who keep the club going they all share the same bond of friendship and camaraderie that makes the RCYC special and unique. Below is a list of some of the more colourful characters that have graced these ancient halls.
Learn MoreThe Royal Cwmtydu Yacht Club, with it's long history and exclusive membership has attracted worlds elite in terms of sailing celebrities. Below is a list of some of the more famous members of RCYC and their roles and their contribution to the success of this famous club.
Learn MoreHaving been in the ownership of the Phillips family since it's inception the current family members are all heavily involved in the business and keen to see it develop and remain as the worlds premier yacht club. The list of current Phillips family members and their roles is detailed below
Learn MoreVisitors are only allowed at the discretion of the Commodore and/or the Main Committee Temporary Membership may be permitted providing the conditions outlined below are met.
Learn MoreIf you would like to apply for Full Membership this has to be via an invitation from a current member. Potential members must also have a seconder who must be a full member. For the vetting process and the fees please see details below.
Learn MoreIn certain circumstances the Club Committee may grant an individual or a couple an Honorary Life Membership. This prestigious award is usually bestowed to persons who have made a special contribution to making the world a better place in whatever way that is. For example the last two recipient of an Honorary Membership were Tom Jones and Jack Synod Ganol and Maudie from the Dolau Inn at New Quay. Tom Jones's award was for his incredible and continuing work in the arts and Jack and Maudie were put forward due to their ability to keep half of New Quay permanently inebriated at any hour of the day or night.
Learn MorePlease email your queries to the Membership Director Winston Phillips at; winston.phillips@royalcwmtyduyachtclub.com