Tim Newton
A retired U.S. Coast Guard captain, longtime York resident, and AYC board member since 2016. All three of Tim’s children grew up sailing, racing, and instructing at the club.
Our story
A York Harbor tradition, passed from sailor to sailor.
Founded in 1937, AYC has grown around a simple idea: give people the skills, access, and community they need to enjoy life on the water.
Our mission
Safe boating. Skilled sailors. A stronger community.
AYC creates and sustains a community of families who enjoy being on the water.
We invest in the people, equipment, and waterfront facilities that make safe boating more accessible in York Harbor. Junior sailing and racing remain at the heart of the club, surrounded by programs and traditions that welcome adults, families, and supporting members.
“The most rewarding part is watching sailors gain confidence and achieve goals they never thought possible.”— Charlie Newton, Program Director
Since 1937
Nearly nine decades in York Harbor.
Generations have learned from the same tides, launched from the same stretch of harbor, and returned as instructors, volunteers, parents, and club leaders. That continuity is AYC’s greatest tradition.
For the full story, Celebrating the First 75 Years—a 76-page photo history by former commodores Doug Tuttle and Joey Donnelly—is free to download, or available in hardcover ($75) from the club.
Read the club historyDownload the 75th-anniversary book (PDF, 10 MB)2026 leadership
Club leadership.
AYC is led by volunteers and staff who bring deep connections to sailing, York, and the club community.
Nat McAllister
A 20-plus-year York resident and sailing-industry leader whose three children have grown up on the AYC dock as sailors, racers, and instructors.
Samantha Maynard
Sam first learned to sail at AYC at age eight and later served as an instructor. She returns to the harbor for her first season as club manager.
The 2026 team
Most of our instructors grew up sailing here.
Many AYC coaches, instructors, junior instructors, and dock stewards first came through the program as young sailors. They return with formal certifications, local knowledge, and a shared commitment to making the water safe and fun.
Meet the whole 2026 teamAll aboard
Stop by and say hello.
Sail, volunteer, support the program, or just come see the club for yourself.