california yacht club fire 2023

Fire destroys historic California Yacht Club building in Marina del Rey

Two firefighters injured in the fire were treated at a hospital and released., by lauren coronado and jonathan lloyd • published december 12, 2023 • updated on december 12, 2023 at 9:54 pm.

Two firefighters were injured in a fire that destroyed a building at the historic California Yacht Club in Marina del Rey.

The fire was reported around 11:30 p.m. in the 4400 block of Admiralty Way. The injured firefighters were released from a hospital Tuesday morning.

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Flames tore through the clubhouse. No other injuries were reported. None of the boats in the marina appeared to be damaged.

Members said the club holds a special place in their hearts. Jeff Jackson recorded video of the fire from his nearby condo.

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"It doesn't feel like a yacht club at all," Jackson said. "I call it my "Cheers" bar because it's just so warm and inviting. I was crushed just thinking about it. Such a great place... It's a very personal club. And I think anyone who is a member knows what I'm speaking of and the warmth and love we feel for them and they feel for us.

"It just breaks my heart. I don't know what they're going to do for Christmas."

Steve Hathaway arrived at the scene early Tuesday. He said the club became a significant part of his life after his family helped build it in the 1960s.

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"Heartbreaking. This has been my home for 40, 50 years," Hathaway said. "It's been a home for so many people. It tears me apart to see this."

The clubhouse and offices are open Wednesday through Sunday, but the docks and grounds are accessible at any time, according to the club's website . It was not immediately clear whether anyone was inside when the fire started.

The club offers dining and space for social events.

The yacht club was founded in 1922 in Wilmington Harbor near San Pedro. The current club in Marina del Rey was built in 1967.