A Community Built Around Wind, Water, and Friendship

The Saylorville Yacht Club (SYC) is Central Iowa’s home for sailing, racing, and lakeside fun. Located just minutes north of Des Moines on beautiful Saylorville Lake, we bring together sailors of all experience levels, from first-time student sailors to seasoned racers and world travelers, to enjoy time on the water and connect with a welcoming community.

Founded in the 1970's to grow the sport of sailing in the Midwest, SYC has become a vibrant hub for education, recreation, and camaraderie.  Our members span all ages, professions, and backgrounds, and come together from all across Iowa—including Ankeny, Johnston, West Des Moines, Urbandale, Waukee, Polk City, Grimes, Ames, and beyond—for wind, water, and good company. We believe sailing should be fun, approachable, and open to anyone who wants to learn.

Whether you want to learn the basics, crew on a racing team, enjoy relaxed cruising, or spend time outdoors with other lake enthusiasts, SYC offers a way to get on the water with an easygoing, inclusive community of great people. Explore our membership options, connect with fellow sailors, and experience why Saylorville Lake is the heart of sailing in Iowa.

Sailing on Saylorville Lake

Saylorville Lake offers some of the best sailing conditions in the Midwest. With steady breezes, open water, and convenient access from the Des Moines metro, it’s the perfect place to learn, practice, and enjoy the sport any time during the day, on the weekends, or in the evenings after work. Our members sail everything from small dinghies to keelboats, and you’ll find activities nearly every week during the season.

Racing, Cruising & Events

SYC hosts a full calendar of activities each year, including:

• Club racing series and regattas
• Casual cruising meetups
• Social events on and off the water
• Educational opportunities
• Volunteer events

Whether you’re competitive or casual, there’s something for every sailor.

Sailing Education Through SYCSS

The Saylorville Yacht Club Sailing School (SYCSS) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that provides U.S. Sailing–certified instruction for adults of all ages. Iowans have been learning to sail here for over 15 years, with graduates going on to cruise Saylorville Lake, race nationally, and even explore the world by boat. SYC proudly supports SYCSS as part of our mission to grow sailing in Iowa.