In 1951, a syndicate comprised of 18 members of the Club purchased a parcel of land (a part of our current property), negotiated a foreshore lease in the name of the Club, arranged for the dredging of the basin and drove piles. In accordance with the terms of the Syndicate Agreement, the Club undertook to build floats, install electrical and water connections and provide parking facilities. In return Syndicate members were each entitled to the use of a 40 ft Club slip at an annual cost not to exceed $52 and were accorded reduced membership fees. Throughout the fifties, Club activities focused on obtaining adjacent properties and the development of the basin.

In 1955, the Junior Sailing Program was started. Plans for a clubhouse were initiated in the late fifties and the Clubhouse was completed in 1963. In 1968, the Southern Straits Sailing Classic race was instituted by WVYC and has become a well-known annual event.

During the seventies, the Club obtained two outstations, Kendrick Island at Gabriola Pass was purchased and a lease obtained for a McKenzie Bay outstation on Gambier Island. A dry dock elevator and mast tower were installed and the Clubhouse grounds further developed. In 1989 the lease for the E section docks was acquired.

Property at Elliott Bay, Gambier Island, was purchased and the outstation opened in 1990. In 1992, the Club approved its first Long Range Plan. The WVYC Women’s Association (previously Women’s Auxiliary) celebrated its fortieth anniversary in 1994.

The Club celebrated its 50th anniversary in 1995 with a gala party, featuring a musical revue of its history. Throughout much of the summer and fall a large group of volunteers reconstructed most of the floats in B, C, and D sections and significant improvements were made in the dockside electrical systems. A Sailing Director was hired to focus on the junior programs and generally support the Club’s sailing program. Galley service was expanded in the same year.

In 1997, thanks to the efforts of Dave and Phyllis Simpson, the Club acquired the totem pole that now emblazons our entrance. Many Club members assisted in the restoration of this pole.

In 2001, plans for the Yachting Centre, were approved, construction commenced in early 2002 and the building was officially opened on June 18. The facility provides greatly improved space for sail training and will be a welcome addition to the social/meeting facilities available to the membership. Throughout the summer, of 2002, major renovations were made to the cottage at Elliott Bay. Many members contributed to both projects and we now have a facility at Elliott Bay that will serve the membership year round. 2002 also expanded the concept of spousal memberships.

Further improvements were made to Elliott Bay outstation in 2003 with the addition of new out houses, the docks and further work on the cottage. 2003 also saw the development of a comprehensive plan for dock maintenance as well as a highly successful drive that saw 94 new members join the Club.

The Club has an ongoing capital asset improvement plan to ensure that all facilities are the best they can be. This plan is financed through regular operations and new membership fees.  The most significant aspects of these plans are the replacement of all docks in Fisherman's Cove beginning in 2004, a new galley in the Club house, and extensive repairs/replacement to outstation docks.

After a 6 year discussion with F & O Canada and other regulatory bodies, 2007 saw the construction of the west dry wharf. This 5200 sq/ft deck with 5 ton hoist is the home to WVYC's one design fleet. This group represents the cutting edge in sailing vessel technology coupled with a keen sense of competition amongst the crews.

The fourth cruising destination Telegraph Harbour Marina was added in 2010 and further expansion of the clubhouse is planned for 2011.

The Club has evolved over the last 70 years to become a major player in Pacific Northwest yachting circles and a contributor to yachting in Canada. The Club currently has a membership of 700, and 250 boats moored in the basin.

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