In 1853, seven men who loved sailing founded the Carolina Yacht Club. Richard Bradley, Parker Quince, John Reston, Talcott Burr, Daniel Baker, T.M. Gardner, and Richard J. Jones took sailing only slightly less seriously than their work in law, banking, publishing, commerce, and public service. They fiercely competed in regattas on the river, sound, and sea, and celebrated their victories at merry Banks parties.
Today, any current member in good standing may propose someone for membership. Nominated individuals will be placed on the CYC membership waitlist and considered for membership in the order their request was received.
Carolina Yacht Club Past Commodores

Commodores play an important role in the governance of the Carolina Yacht Club.
| Commodore | Year |
|---|---|
| Philip Humphrey | Current |
| Charlotte Hicks | 2025 |
| Kim Morris | 2024 |
| Steven Lilly | 2023 |

