Howth Yacht Club

IDRA 14 Fleet

Howth Yacht Club sits on the north side of Dublin Bay, nestled between the towering cliffs of Howth Head and the wild beauty of Ireland’s Eye. Founded in 1895, it is one of Ireland’s largest and most active sailing clubs, with a proud tradition of racing, training, and community on the water.

The IDRA 14 fleet at Howth is smaller than some others, but it has grown steadily in recent seasons and is now a committed, enthusiastic group that relishes the varied conditions Dublin Bay offers. From flat water breezes to lively sea states that test both boat and crew.

Racing & Training

Dinghy racing is a core part of life at Howth Yacht Club. Throughout the season, IDRA 14s are regularly out on the bay, racing in the Thursday evening dinghy series, weekend fleets, and open events that draw sailors from across Dublin Bay and beyond.

Training and development are woven into the fleet’s culture. Sessions use data combined with photo and video to focus on; Boat handling and boat speed, race starts and tactics and sailing in varying wind and tide conditions.

This approach means every sailor, from newcomers to those with more experience, you can sharpen your skills on the water.

HYC Results

Photo credit @karolinabadz

What Sailing Here Feels Like

The sailing grounds off Howth are rich and varied. Depending on the wind and tide, sailors can experience:

Steady sea breezes that promote tactical upwind racing
Westerly winds with lively rollers off the headland
Wind shifts influenced by the shelter of Ireland’s Eye

These dynamic conditions help sailors develop confidence and versatility. Skills that pay dividends at away events and across the season.

After racing, the clubhouse’s welcoming atmosphere, with its bar, lounge, and dining spaces, provides a place to debrief, connect, and build community with other sailors.

The Fleet

While smaller in number than some other fleets, the Howth IDRA 14 group punches above its weight in commitment and enthusiasm. Boats race together regularly, and the fleet supports each other’s progress and development both on and off the water.

This tight-knit culture makes it especially easy for new sailors to find a role. Whether as crew, helm, or part of the support community ashore.

Meet the Fleet

How to Join In

You don’t need to own a boat to get involved at HYC. Many sailors start by; Crewing on existing boats; Joining training sessions with the fleet; Racing in open events

If you’re curious about sailing with the Howth IDRA 14s, drop us a message. We’re happy to help you get on the water and plugged into the fleet.

Class captain: Ryan Cairns

Website: Howth Yacht Club

EMAIL IDRA HOWTH