The Lake Sunapee Star Fleet has a long and storied history. Proudly chartered on February 1, 1939, as part of the Twelfth District of the International Star Class Yacht Racing Association, founding members Richard G. Norris, Sally Upham, and Frank Gordon helped launch what became, by the 1980s, the largest freshwater Star Fleet in the world.

Known for its rich tradition and competitive spirit, our fleet races on weekends from June through Labor Day. A highlight of the season is the Lake Sunapee Open, held during the first week of August, which attracts top sailors from across the Northeastern U.S. and Eastern Canada, including World Champions, for high-level competition in one of sailing’s most iconic classes. The Star was an Olympic class until 2012, and it remains one of the most respected and technically demanding keelboats in the world.

A piece of Star Class history lives at the Lake Sunapee Yacht Club in a renowned photograph behind the bar that captures Sunapee sailors Willard Hodges and John McCrillis competing at the 1946 World Championships in Havana, Cuba.

Racing is open to both Lake Sunapee Yacht Club members and non-members. While club privileges are not included with a Star Fleet sailing membership, non-members may apply to launch and race with the Fleet during the season. Please note that due to limited space at the Club, launching privileges are not guaranteed. Contact the Fleet Secretary for details.

Interested in joining the tradition?
Reach out to Fleet Secretary Erin Kelly at [email protected] for more information or to get involved.