May 2, 2023

A 3D projection of the new renovations at the National Yacht Club

The National Yacht Club is one of Canada’s oldest institutions on Toronto’s waterfront dating back to 1890. The historic club is just finishing a $5 million project replacing their docks with Poralu Marine for the upcoming season. 

The conversation for this huge project started more than two years ago. “Every time there’s a crisis, there’s an opportunity. For us the crisis was we had docks that had gone way beyond their lifespan and so we needed to replace them,” said Vice Commodore Neil Hetherington.

As the planning for this project started, the NYC Board of Directors brought together a committee of experts who researched the sector, membership and financial implications for this project. The membership had foresight in making the decision close to six years ago to create a dock fund setting funds aside every single year to build up the fund… 

The NYC chose Poralu Marine for this project for its docking system and responsiveness. 

The new Poralu docking system is made of a new modular aluminum and plastic composite design

The club’s previous docks were constructed of steel and wood and well beyond their anticipated lifespan. The new Poralu system is made of aluminum and a plastic composite. The design allows for ice to form around the floatation structure and essentially levitate above the water which dramatically improves their lifespan. Moreover, they’re like a Lego system which allows the club to move slips and fingers around to adjust for various berths. 

The new docks are also much wider to aid with accessibility accommodating electrical, water and Wi-Fi. They’re also able to provide over two dozen new slips for new members. There will be a total of 214 slips ranging from 30’ to 50’.

There’s been many other benefits,” commented the Vice Commodore. A big one being that the NYC is able to welcome new members. As well, there was a strong need for better docks to accommodate bigger boats. 

The new docks are more accessible being safer, wider and free from obstructions. One of the things the NYC is very proud of is their partnership with Able Sailing and this system enhances that relationship. “We are welcoming and responding to demographic shifts in the community and that has benefited our club and community overall. Now there will be close to two dozen more members that will contribute to the sport of sailing. You bring that all together and then you wrap it around with a financial plan that really makes sense for the club, and you can understand why we’re so excited.” Ahead of schedule even, the NYC is anxiously awaiting launch on May 13th. 

The NYC is recognized for its inclusive and active boating community. This renovation will further add to the prestigious institution and special programs they offer. They’ve had additional investments in some programs this year such as their Adult Learn to Sail. They’re also hosting some major sailing events this upcoming season.

Learn more about the National Yacht Club HERE.

Learn more about Poralu Marine HERE.

– Allegra Smith-Herriott