Charlesgate Yacht Club – Cambridge MA
Tony would not tell me how much it cost to become a member; however, he did tell me it cost $10k year to Division of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) for rental of their property. He also mentions the club doesn’t hold anything against sail boaters; they are just too tall to come through the locks.
Neatly tucked away between Museum of Science and Longfellow Bridge, 71 powerboats nestle against the docks like the charts on your chart table. If you’re looking for a place to stay in Boston, then this is the best kept secret on the river with reciprocity. It’s also a safe place during hurricanes.
Club historian and owner of Tony’s Toy, Anthony “Tony” Seminara shares Boston’s history on such things as: the Battle Hymn Republic song written about George’s Island, how Quincy Bay’s Hangman Island didn’t really have any hangings, and submarine nets stretched from Nahant to Graves Light; back in the day.
Joan Millian, boat owner of Her Decision, says the senior citizen luncheons, the rides on the Charles River Boat twice a year, and the springtime cleanup on the Charles River is what makes this club unique. Charlesgate Yacht Club (CYC) is the only yacht club on the Charles River. Between 6:15 – 9:10am and 3:15 – 6:30pm, the Craig and Railroad bridge locks open to this exclusive community service oriented club founded in 1946.
Fishing for carp, eel, stripers, to name a few, is permitted off the docks. “Just don’t clean them there,” says Tony.
And, 55 steps away between your favorite cocktail and sleep are the Royal Sonesta Hotel plus their restaurant (Art D) where you can invite friends and family to gather.
The best way to contact CYC is to call 617-354-8215 and ask for the marina chairman. No hailing. Their address is 20 
Cambridge Parkway, Cambridge, MA. They can also be found on your GPS at: N 42.35982 and W -71.08422
Other important information:
Plenty of water, 30 amp shore power, showers, use of kitchen, toilets, and ice. No tide to worry about, tie up on a float, accommodates 45’ vessels and under, bridge height 13’ max. Donations welcome in lieu of payment.
