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Member Mary Bello wrote this informative article about her observation of FWYC. Next month, we will publish a
similar article written in the 1970s which also highlights the uniqueness and value of FWYC.
A Fort Walton Gem—that most aren’t aware of
One of the many perks of living in our area is that, basically, we live in a resort location. And if you ever forget
about that in the midst of all the working and running which are part of our daily lives, consider this: belonging
to a place that makes you feel the resort experience every day—the Fort Walton Yacht Club.
FWYC’s history dates back to the early 1950’s, and it occupies one of the most beautiful sites on Choctawhatchee
Bay, Smack Point. It offers not only docks and storage for boats, but also a bay front beach, waterfront restaurant
and bar, lovely terrace, a gazebo and deck with grills for hosting private get-togethers, and beautiful grounds for
simply relaxing and taking in the views. The gazebo is a perfect spot for weddings, and sits out on the point with
water views on three sides.
The waterfront terrace which lines the restaurant has become a favorite hangout, with comfy outdoor seating,
speakers playing great music, and the very best place to witness the most amazing sunsets you’ll ever see.
When some people hear the words “yacht club”, they might smirk and think “hoity-toity.” But the Fort Walton
Yacht Club is nothing of the sort—it’s a place of camaraderie, where people just enjoy being together and having
fun in a breathtaking setting. Serious sailors love it here, and the club holds weekly races, seasonal events and
fun celebrations on every holiday.
If you have children, you won’t find a better place for them this summer if you’re a member. There is a calm
swimming beach, a waterside play park, and the very best thing of all, summer sailing camps.
The Emerald Coast Sailing Association holds 2-weeks sailing lessons for kids age 8 to 17 on Prams, Sunfish and
(the more advanced) 420’s. They learn the basics of sailing and water safety, but mostly—THEY HAVE FUN!
I couldn’t think of a better place to bring my son in those days, and I felt elated when I dropped him off to enjoy
this healthy outdoor activity, rather than imagine him indoors somewhere playing video games.
The Fort Walton Yacht Club offers two kinds of memberships, a Youth Membership which allows kids to use
the boats they’ve trained on once they’ve proven themselves; and an Adult Membership for full use of all facilities.
A simple phone call to the club will provide you with all the answers to questions you may have on membership,
weddings, catered meetings, boat storage, and the Emerald Coast Sailing Association’s summer sailing camps.
You don’t have to own a boat in order to make joining FWYC a great experience. The setting alone is enough
to make you want to belong—and never leave!
By Mary Bello, member FWYC
For more information, please call 850-243-7102 or check us out on www.fwyc.org.
~ Fort Walton Yacht Club, Established in 1951 ~