Club History

Our History
Sailing has long been part of Mullaghmore’s story. Its prime, sheltered location in Donegal Bay made it a hub for commercial and recreational boating alike. The earliest recorded reference to recreational sailing dates back to 24 August 1885, when a newspaper reported on the Mullaghmore Regatta. That day saw Greencastle yawls, trawlers, and “boats under ten tons” racing in the bay, before the festivities concluded with a donkey race!

The current club was established in 1963 as Mullaghmore Yacht Club (MYC), with early activity centred around a small number of cruising boats and a few dinghies. Founder member Paddy Malone and the early committee nurtured a strong sailing culture, primarily focused on competitive and recreational cruising.

From the late 1980s, sailing participation broadened significantly, prompting a stronger emphasis on junior sailing. Courses were initially run from Mullaghmore Harbour, engaging local children and helping make sailing more accessible to the community.

Recognising the need for a permanent, safe base, the management committee worked with Sligo County Council to secure a site outside the main harbour. A fundraising programme—combining grant aid, personal donations, club fundraising activities, and some bank borrowing—enabled the development of the site and construction of the current clubhouse. Opened in May 2000 by the Minister for Tourism, Sport and Recreation, this milestone allowed a material expansion of activities, particularly for junior sailors, and laid the foundation for the vibrant, inclusive club that MSC is today.