This month, in what has become a tradition, the 2024 Classic Boat Awards ceremony is being held at the Royal Thames Yacht Club (RTYC) in Knightsbridge. It is an entirely appropriate connection, with each organisation, in their different ways, seriously pro-active custodians of yachting heritage; both are practically engaged in celebrating living history, while acting as guardians of seagoing craft and traditions.
So, what is special about the Royal Thames? Some have claimed it to be the oldest yacht club in the world, dating its existence from 1775 when it first raced as the Cumberland Fleet, although this accolade is usually ascribed to the Royal Cork. It is definitely the oldest yacht club in the United Kingdom, and almost certainly the first in the world to promote yacht racing.
As such it has a history which encompasses almost every development in recreational and racing sailing, from the very early days. Thomas Taylor, commodore from 1779 – 1816, is a particularly unsung hero. Andrew Collins, head of heritage at the Thames, believes
