Lough Swilly Yacht Club to celebrate 70th anniversary with special day of events

Lough Swilly Yacht Club is marking 70 years since its founding with a series of events.

From humble beginnings in the old railway station at Fahan, Lough Swilly Yacht Club has grown into a vibrant hub for sailing and powerboating on one of Ireland’s most scenic and historic waterways.

Lough Swilly Yacht Club was founded in November 195 by a passionate group of local enthusiasts who gathered at the Northern Counties Hotel in Derry. 

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Their shared goal was to encourage sailing and powerboating on the lough “by every possible means.”

The club’s home at the old Fahan railway station was gifted to it when the railway line closed and has been the heart of the club’s activities ever since. The club’s opening day was held on July 2, 1955.

Commodore of the club, Dermot Downey, said the spirit of that first race and prizegiving in July 1955 lives on today.

“Over the decades, we’ve built a community defined by adventure, hospitality, and love of the water. From building the slipway and establishing the caravan park, to hosting regattas and cruising far beyond the Swilly, our story is one of progress and passion.

“As we mark this 70th anniversary, we celebrate not just a club - but the people who made it possible. Come sail, reminisce, and raise a glass with us this July.

“We warmly welcome founding members, their families, past members, and visiting boats to join us for this special occasion. It’s a wonderful opportunity to reconnect, share memories, and celebrate the spirit of the Swilly together.”

Members of the Lough Swilly Yacht Club at its clubhouse at Fahan

To celebrate its remarkable journey the club is inviting all members - past and present - along with founding families and friends, to take part in a special Anniversary Celebration Day on July 12.

The day will begin with a morning sail on Lough Swilly, welcoming all boats to take part - whether racing or cruising - followed by a barbecue  at the clubhouse in the afternoon, with a cost of  €15 per adult / €5 per child.