History of Bayshore Yacht Club
In 1955 Robert R. Linn Sr. formed Bay Haven Yacht Club along with several area businessmen. Articles of incorporation were signed and Bob Linn became Bay Haven Yacht Club’s first commodore. The club by-laws were established outlining the governing of the club. Two years after incorporation, the club received their liquor license granted by the State of Michigan.
In 1957, Bob turned his attention to expanding the marina and developing the yacht club into what it is today. Today, members total approximately 360. The club is open Wednesday through Sunday during summer months and only on Friday nights during the winter.
Many changes to the facility have taken place over the years. In the beginning, the club was housed in what is now the Ship’s Store. The pool, at the time, was located next to the pump house just outside the entrance to the store. As membership grew, the club relocated to its present site above the Ship’s Store. Many renovations over the years have resulted into what is now BYC. Updated stairs and entrance doors, expansion of the kitchen area, increased size of the bar area, enclosed deck, and new windows has taken place over the past years. The bar is the only original structure that remains from the 1950’s
In 1989, Bay Haven Marina was sold to new owners and he name of the marina was changed to Bayshore Marina. In 1991, the club’s membership was polled whether to change the name of the club to reflect the marina’s new name or leave it as Bay Haven Yacht Club. The membership voted to change the name and Bay Haven became Bayshore Yacht Club. Just a few years later, the marina again was sold. Now under new leadership, the marina became Yacht Basin Marina, as it still remains. Robert R. Linn, the original owner passed away on May 30, 1994.
Bayshore Yacht Club
offers a friendly, family-oriented club whose members share in the pleasures of
boating and relaxation. The club facility is tucked in on the western edge of
Big Bay and overlooks Lake Macatawa. The club is known for their sponsorship of
Wednesday night sailboat races beginning in April and continuing through the
Frost Bite Race held in September. BYC hosts many social
events throughout the year in addition to its sailing program. Club activities
include Sunday Morning Breakfasts, Porker Poker Run, pig roast, chicken/corn
barbecue, Venetian Night, Commodore’s Ball, Halloween and Christmas parties.
Kids activities include the Bay Olympics, Halloween Party and Christmas parties
(with a visit from Santa). Also included on the social calendar are many
activities sponsored by the Yacht Basin.
