THE CLUB
Founded in Genoa in 1879, Yacht Club Italiano is one of the oldest sailing clubs in the Mediterranean. It has always promoted yachting culture by organizing major national and international regattas, ranging from Olympic classes to classic boats and maxi yachts, with a strong focus on training new generations.
With over 1,000 members selected according to strict statutory criteria, the Yacht Club Italiano is a point of reference for international sailing and an institution deeply rooted in the city of Genoa.
The headquarters of the Yacht Club Italiano overlook Porticciolo Duca degli Abruzzi, in the heart of Genoa. Designed by architect Giuseppe Crosa di Vergagni and inaugurated in 1929, it was severely damaged during World War II and rebuilt between 1948 and 1949.
Today, the building spans three floors: on the ground floor are the entrance, changing rooms, and “Sala Trossi”, a space dedicated to activities for young Members. The first floor houses the President’s office, the Secretariat, and the Library. The second floor is the social heart of the Club, with a bar, lounge, and restaurant, where half-hull boat models tell the story of over a century of sailing.
The building also includes the “Saletta de la Penne,” dedicated to decorated war hero Luigi Durand de la Penne. The restaurant, run by Renato Belforte and deeply rooted in Ligurian culinary tradition, is a gathering place for lunches, dinners, and aperitifs, reserved for Members and their guests.
Yacht Club Italiano’s Marina, overlooking the historic Porticciolo Duca degli Abruzzi in Genoa, features approximately 200 berths and offers a comprehensive range of services exclusively for Members.
- 6 floating pontoons and one quay
- Fixed slipway for dinghies
- 2 storage sheds
- Draft: 2 - 12 meters
- Length: 5 to 24 meters
- Freshwater and electricity outlets at every berth
- Wi-Fi throughout the area
- Video surveillance
- 1 fixed electric quay crane – 30 tons1 mobile crane – 15 tons
- Motorized boat trailer – 20 tons
- Forklift – up to 3.5 tons
- 3 pilot boats
- 2 support RIBs
- 75 storage lockers for equipment
- Changing rooms and restrooms with personal lockers
The Portofino clubhouse, along with its terrace nestled in greenery, enjoys a privileged location.
Originally, it was a storage facility used by local Portofino fishermen, which over time fell into disuse. It was thanks to Member Francesco Berlingieri, Secretary General at the time, that the property was acquired and, following extensive restoration, expansion, and modernization work, it became the YCI’s Summer Clubhouse, officially inaugurated on June 1st, 1965.
Later, the two adjoining strips of land were also purchased. Today, from late May to the end of September, members can enjoy bar and restaurant services there, with a truly special view. The clubhouse serves as the operational center for major regattas such as the SIAD Bombola d’Oro Trophy – Roberto Sestini Cup for Dinghies and the Regate di Primavera Portofino, as well as hosting many prestigious and representative social events.
