Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Your Premier Yacht Club in Salem, Massachusetts
Since 1934, Palmer's Cove Yacht Club has provided a welcoming, family-friendly hub for boating enthusiasts in Salem, Massachusetts. Our members enjoy access to a full-service marina, seasonal events, and community-driven activities tailored to sailors, anglers, and local families. With a focus on affordability and tradition, we maintain 165 slips, a renovated clubhouse with dining and event spaces, and a dedicated launch service for seamless harbor access. Our volunteer-driven model ensures cost-effective membership while preserving the heritage of Salem's maritime culture. From annual celebrations like the Blessing of the Fleet to casual gatherings at our tiki bar, we foster connections among New England's boating community.Our facilities include modern amenities such as 24/7 accessible bathrooms, winter storage, and a travel lift for vessel maintenance. Through decades of service, we've balanced historical preservation with contemporary upgrades, including energy-efficient HVAC systems and expanded deck areas. Our commitment to accessibility ensures members of all experience levels can enjoy coastal recreation. By prioritizing member input and sustainable operations, we continue evolving to meet the needs of today's boating community while honoring our 90-year legacy.
Services
Marina Slips
Boat Storage
Launch Service
Event Rentals
Waterfront Dining
Details
- Year established: 1934
Highlights and features
- Established in 1934 as Salem's longest-operating yacht club
- Affordable $29/foot marina slips - 80% cheaper than regional competitors
- 24/7 accessible modern facilities with handicap-compliant bathrooms
- Hosts 50+ annual events including Santa cruises and lobster bakes
- Volunteer-driven model maintains low membership costs through community involvement
Services
Marina Slips
Our marina provides 165 slips with wait times of 6-10 years. Members access moorings via launch service until permanent slips become available. 2025 rates at $29 per foot represent the most competitive pricing on the North Shore. Ten transient slips accommodate short-term visits while our vacation slip program offers non-slip members seven-day docking privileges annually.
Launch Service
Daily passenger ferry service operates between club floats and member vessels. Six-person capacity with licensed crew exceptions. Seasonal hours run May through October with real-time status updates via hotline. Safety protocols include life jackets for children and strict no-work policies for transport vessels.
Event Hosting
Our renovated clubhouse accommodates private events with full bar service and catering options. Year-round calendar features themed parties, holiday celebrations, and community fundraisers. Members enjoy exclusive access to waterfront deck parties with live music and seasonal decorations.
Winter Storage
Secure seasonal storage available for sail and power boats. Waitlisted system ensures fair access to covered and open-yard spaces. On-site travel lift facilitates vessel movement between storage areas and harbor moorings.
Waterfront Dining
Full-service bar and grill open year-round with casual dining options. Members enjoy happy hour specials, guest privileges, and themed meal events. Outdoor tiki bar provides summer refreshments with harbor views.
People
Maura Varney
Commodore
Leading club operations since 2023, Commodore Varney oversees strategic initiatives and member communications. With 15+ years of board experience, she champions community engagement and facility modernization projects.
Jeff Plouff
Vice Commodore
Managing buildings and grounds since 2021, Vice Commodore Plouff directs infrastructure improvements. His construction expertise ensures maintenance of docks, parking areas, and climate-controlled storage facilities.
Scott Sheehan
Rear Commodore
Organizing 50+ annual events annually, Rear Commodore Sheehan coordinates social programming. He manages entertainment bookings, holiday celebrations, and member volunteer initiatives.
Rick Nye
Treasurer
Handling financial operations since 2018, Treasurer Nye maintains budget transparency. He oversees slip fee collections, vendor payments, and annual financial reporting for the 800+ member organization.
Eric Berube
Secretary
Documenting club proceedings since 2020, Secretary Berube manages official communications. He maintains membership records, board minutes, and website content updates.
Questions
What are current marina slip rates?
2025 rates are $29 per foot annually. Slip assignments take 6-10 years from waitlist date.
Can non-members use club facilities?
Members may bring guests to the bar and events. Marina access requires membership or slip rental.
How does the launch service work?
Call 774-418-0349 for real-time status. Six-person limit with seasonal hours from May-October.
Are pets allowed at the club?
Well-behaved dogs welcome in marina and on launch service with operator approval.
Reviews (6)
Jay
Jan 11, 2021
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Gosh,
I remember going here way back in the early "80's"! My dad's brother and my parents hangout with the singers "Blondie, eaurithmitics, and Patty Smyth" when"" Palmer's cove """ had functions and after hours! I also , remember """fee waybill """ lead singer of the band """TUBES"""" was a person who went here a few times
I remember going here way back in the early "80's"! My dad's brother and my parents hangout with the singers "Blondie, eaurithmitics, and Patty Smyth" when"" Palmer's cove """ had functions and after hours! I also , remember """fee waybill """ lead singer of the band """TUBES"""" was a person who went here a few times
Susan Card
Aug 18, 2019
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Palmer Cove Yacht Club is a very nice place. While visiting this establishment during a pool tournament, I was extremely comfortable in my surroundings. People of this establish were very friendly and homey. I felt free to be myself and felt as though I had known these people forever. GREAT PLACE! I HOPE TO RETURN SOON!!!
Meghan Ranallo
Jul 26, 2019
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Nice location with Great potential but multiple of the bartenders were beyond RUDE - for no Reason at All!! I have worked in the service industry and I am far from demanding the Rudeness was Uncalled for!!
John McCatherin
Jul 20, 2018
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Played the pool team on an away match. Always fun coming here...though the roll the pool table out so idk if it's always useable. Nice bartenders to.
Timothy Shanahan
Dec 03, 2017
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Stayed on reciprocity and members are friendly & helpful. Location is right near town and convenient to restaurants etc. Ice and showers available on site.
Colin Coleman
Nov 03, 2017
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Great, affordable, local yacht club. They have slips and are right in Salem harbor. Full service bar, and semi limited food menu. Steak tips are great. Fun events for adults and families too. I'm a member and enjoy the club
