Making Waves : The 200 Year History of the Royal Yacht Squadron

Founded in 1815, the Royal Yacht Squadron (RYS) iswidely regarded as the most prestigious yacht club in theworld.

Its clubhouse, Cowes Castle on the Isle of Wight, UK,was built by Henry VIII in 1539.

It overlooks the waters ofthe Solent and the start line of many celebrated yacht races. Since 1826 the RYS has held an annual regatta, whichbecame known as Cowes Week.

Its association with the RoyalNavy began early and Nelson's captain at Trafalgar, AdmiralSir Thomas Hardy, headed the long list of distinguishednaval members.

Today its 600 members all have an activeinterest in promoting yachting in all its forms, from cadettraining to the America's Cup.

The club's patron is QueenElizabeth II and the club's admiral is Prince Philip. In 2015, the Royal Yacht Squadron celebrated itsbicentenary.

The anniversary book, Making Waves: The 200Year History of the Royal Yacht Squadron, by the historianAlex Martin and with a foreword by HRH The Duke ofEdinburgh, is being published to mark this celebration.