Howth Yacht Club's new committee vessel, North Star, arrived today from Kilkeel Co. Down and will commence her race management duties shortly. North Star replaces Starpoint, which has served HYC faithfully for the past 10 years. The race management team in Howth is currently training and upskilling their drivers to safely operate the new boat. The new addition is a sleek, white-hulled catamaran commissioned from G Smyth boat yard. The boat's naming ceremony, attended by members, took place on Saturday 22^nd March.

The boat’s journey began with a Letter of Intent (LOI) in July 2024, followed by a build contract in August 2024, a completion date at the end of March 2025. After successful sea trials and final commissioning, the boat was released to Howth Yacht Club.

North Star was warmly welcomed into the marina by other race management vessels and a fleet of club rescue craft, accompanied by a tooting of horns and a stream of well-wishers. Club Commodore Kevin Monks was on board for the commissioning run and was pleased with the new boat's performance. Upon arrival in Howth, long standing honorary secretary Bernie Condy named and blessed the boat and all the crew that will volunteer on her.

Robert Kennedy, Rear Commodore who oversaw the project, expressed his satisfaction, saying, "His team put in exceptional effort in designing, specifying, and overseeing the building of the purpose-built catamaran. The Rear Commodore commended G Smyth boatyard on their professionalism, craftsmanship, and support throughout the build process.

This vessel is expected to support a host of sailing events in the coming years."

Many supporters, along with committee members, flag officers, former commodores, and race management personnel attended the ceremony to welcome the newest member of the fleet.

For more photos from the day visit our gallery here: Howth Yacht Club Welcomes New Committee Vessel - All Photos - HYC.ie