The International Yachting Fellowship of Rotarians (IYFR)
IYFR was formed in 1947 in Great Britain, making it the oldest continuously active fellowship in Rotary. IYFR is also the largest of the fifty-eight worldwide Rotary fellowships, with approximately 100 active “fleets” and around 3000 members in 24 countries. Member fleets are located in Argentina, Australia, Belgium, Brazil, British Virgin Islands, Canada, Finland, France, Germany, Great Britain, Ireland, Italy, Japan, The Netherlands, New Zealand, Philippines, Poland, Slovenia, South Africa, Spain, Sweden, Turkey, and the USA.
IYFR fleets are Rotary Fellowship groups composed of individual Rotarians from multiple Rotary clubs that may be located in several different Rotary districts. The fact that IYFR fleet members come from many clubs broadens the STAR potential for those with an IYFR fleet relationship.
Objectives of the Fellowship:
The International Yachting Fellowship of Rotarians combines an acceptance of the principles of Rotary with a love of boats and the sea, rivers and inland waters, and uses the shared interest of yachting and seamanship as an opportunity to encourage and foster the objectives of Rotary. IYFR objectives are:
- To advance international understanding, goodwill and peace through a world fellowship of business and professional persons united in the ideals of service.
- To promote Rotary fellowship through cruising, yachting, racing, sailing, kayaking and other activities involving boats and boating.
- To promote high standards of seamanship and abide by recognized yachting customs and etiquette on the water.
- To support Rotary service projects and opportunities, on and off the water.
These objectives are conducive to cooperation between IYFR fleets and sail trainers wishing to build on the STAR relationship.
