Sailors for the Sea: Green Boater & Clean Regattas Programs
In 2018 the Corinthian became a partner in the UN’s Clean Seas Campaign, and in 2020 we became a partner with Sailors for the Sea, the global leader in water-based event certification. We adhere to their Green Boater, Clean Regattas, Clean Clubs, and Kids’ Environmental Lessons (KELP) programs. The Club is a leader in environmental sustainability and encourages our members and the wider community to help turn the tide on single-use plastics.
The Corinthian is committed to proactive stewardship of Marblehead Harbor and to the protection of our vibrant boating and sailing community. The ocean is central to our town’s heritage and identity—it enriches our quality of life and draws us to this remarkable place we call home. With that privilege comes a collective responsibility to safeguard these waters for future generations. True preservation begins with personal responsibility, making mindful choices both on and off the water. We encourage all members to remain actively engaged in this ongoing effort to protect and sustain the waters that define our community.
CYC Sets the Pace in Harbor Sustainability
In 2021 the Club organized our first official Clean Regattas for Etchells US Nationals, Town Class Nationals & Worlds, and Rhodes 19 Nationals. All three Corinthian Regattas achieved Silver Level Certification for accomplishing 17 out of 20 best practices in these categories:
- Eliminating single-use items, especially plastic water bottles
- Involving all racing competitors and the wider community
- Responsible waste management
- Environmental stewardship
- Green boating
In 2025 the CYC Sailing Committee voted to require that all future regattas and on-the-water events hosted by CYC to be certified as Clean Regattas. Over the years, CYC has hosted multiple certified Clean Regattas, demonstrating leadership in sustainable sailing practices. We have further advanced this mission through Clean Club and Green Boater initiatives, positioning CYC as a leader in harbor sustainability. Notably, CYC established the harbor’s first standing Sustainability Committee, setting a precedent for other clubs to follow.
"I’m proud that organizers of these iconic races run them as Clean Regattas, continuing Corinthian’s leadership in environmental sustainability and a commitment to action as an example for competitors fare and wide.” Past Commodore Rob Howie, Sailors for the Seas Skipper for the Town of Marblehead.
Show your support for the Corinthian Yacht Club's environmental leadership. Pledge to become a Green Boater today and help us lead the charge for clean practices around Marblehead.
Interview with Dee Cafarri
Rob Howie, former Commodore of the CYC, interviews Denise "Dee" Caffari MBE in 2018 at the start of the 9th leg of the Volvo Ocean Race, the ultimate test of a team. Topics include her advice to young sailors, her motivation for racing, and her leadership within the United Nations’ Clean Seas initiative to reduce single-use plastics.
Dee is a world-renowned British sailor and the only woman to have sailed around the world six times (as of 2020). In 2006, she made history as the first woman to sail single-handedly and non-stop "the wrong way" (westward) around the world. She is also the author of Against the Flow: The Inspiring Story of a Teacher Turned Record-breaking Yachtswoman.
