MEMBERSHIP
Membership
The Housatonic Boat Club (HBC) welcomes applications for membership from families and individuals who wish to share their passion for sailing, boating, angling and all other water activities with other club members.
HBC is a friendly, easy going, family oriented boating organization that organizes sailing races, club cruises, a sailing instruction program for children (of members and non-members) as well as multiple social events including suppers, lunches, dances, and special affairs.
Club Maintenance
Club Members own and manage the club while keeping cost at a minimum and consequently the Club relies primarily on its members for maintenance and improvements of Club equipment and facilities. All members are expected to participate in the few general maintenance work parties to prepare the Club for opening day in the spring and to close the Club in the fall. The work parties offer an excellent opportunity to meet, socialize and bond with fellow members. Members are also expected to participate at some level in special committees throughout the year.
Member Development
Housatonic Boat Club is aware that some well qualified prospective members may be new to the area or not know a current member who can sponsor them for membership. The club has a membership development program to assist individuals who need assistance with sponsors. If you are interested in membership but do not know a potential sponsor, contact our Secretary.
Club Fees
Membership Questions and Contacts
Additional membership questions should be directed to the HBC Secretary
Moorings & dock questions to the HBC Fleet Captain
To apply for a mooring contact:
Milford Deputy Harbormaster:
Lee Henchman - 203-668-5940
Stratford Harbormaster:
Ross Hatfield 203-895-7489
Facilities
The clubhouse is located on the waterfront of the Housatonic River adjacent to the Stratford Shakespeare Theater. The entire house is furnished and decorated in a New England spartan nautical theme. The two-level house has dining areas on both floors. There is also a spacious room with high ceilings on the second floor which is available for private use for private parties by the members. A fully equipped kitchen is also available for all members on the second floor.
There is a large deck overseeing the Housatonic with perfect views of the river and Long Island Sound. There are plenty of picnic tables to enjoy a fabulous dining experience on the water with family and friends. A smaller, more private deck adjacent to the junior Sailing house is also available for sunbathing or dining. There are several propane barbecues throughout the club property for enjoying a delicious grilled meal.
Wireless Internet is also available throughout the clubhouse and the deck areas
Moorings and Docks
MOORINGS: There are approximately 70 moorings in the Housatonic River (controlled by Milford or Stratford Harbormasters) used by Club members for sailboats 40 feet and under (accessed by Club launch). Members are responsible for purchasing their own mooring tackle and arranging for mooring space from the respective towns. You will need to file for a mooring, and get appproved with the town, before you are awarded launch service at HBC.
DOCKS: There are also 30 spaces at the floating docks for sail or powerboats limited to maximum 25 ft CT registration length AND 28 feet overall boat length (length including transom, tilted engine and pulpit / anchor )
Winter Storage
Winter storage is available to members on club property. Please also note that membership in the club does not automatically guarantee a mooring, dock space, or winter storage. These are assigned on a seniority basis; however, there is usually good turnover every year. Contact the Fleet Captain for dock information and to inquire about mooring placement procedure. Contact the Milford or Stratford Harbor Master for mooring availability.