Hempstead Bay Sailing Club Hempstead Bay Sailing Club, Island Park, NY

HBSC is a diamond in the rough informal sailing club located in Island Park NY. Our property has approximately 185’ of waterfront on Barnum channel, and sits on approximately 3/5 of an acre. We are just south of "Peter’s Clam bar" (a landmark favorite restaurant). Since we do not advertise, prospective members happen upon us by chance and usually say they didn’t know we existed.

It all began in 1962 when a group of sailors with a variety of craft in Middle bay, decided they wanted to race against each other. The majority of them were berthed at Lido Marina, now the site of HBSC. The club’s original facility was a houseboat floating on a barge in middle bay. It served as clubhouse, race committee boat, and starting line. In 1964 a constitution was drawn up, and we were formally incorporated on April 20, 1964. At this time, the members voted to race "one designs". Highlanders were considered, but the "Flying Scot" was chosen, because it is fast, responsive, and also a good family boat. In 1965 a Board of Trustees was set up to run the club. Later that year, an opportunity to lease Lido Marina with an option to buy came up, and was acted upon. HBSC now had a home! In 1966 a complete renovation of the main building was undertaken to create the clubhouse. Next door to us on the south side was a coffee shop and fishing station where the "Survivor 2" party boat was docked. That site became available years later, and was added to make up the property we have today.

Our facility has forty slips with floating docks. Thirty-seven are available to members, and three are designated for club use. Many of our members, especially the racers, prefer to dry sail their boats. We have a hoist capable of handling up to two thousand pounds. One design racing fleet is the "Flying Scot". The club conducts a racing program from the end of April through mid October. Other boats owned by members are mostly cruisers (17-27’), miscellaneous sailboats (12-20’), Sunfish (also raced), kayaks, and a limited number of powerboats. Boats owned by the club for use by members are two Flying Scots, one 22’ S2, one 16’ Hobie-cat, and six sunfish. In recent years membership has ranged between 56 & 62 (not including spouses). Husbands and wives share equal membership privileges. Four work parties are held each year to maintain the property. Members are obligated to attend at least two, or earn a credit equivalent of eight hours. As a result of this, club expenses are reduced and the cost of membership is kept exceptionally low.