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Open Seas Yacht Club

• Open Seas Yacht Club

Details about Open Seas Yacht Club

• iOS Version

April 11, 2021

• August 31, 2024
• iPhone , iPad , iPod
• Dutch English French Show more
• Apple silicon support

Developer of Open Seas Yacht Club

• Price History
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Version History of Open Seas Yacht Club

Price history of open seas yacht club, description of open seas yacht club, open seas yacht club: faq, can open seas yacht club support ipad devices.

Yes, Open Seas Yacht Club is compatible with iPad devices.

Who created the app?

Gembrook Systems, LLC is the developer of the Open Seas Yacht Club app.

What is the minimum iOS version required to use Open Seas Yacht Club?

The minimum required iOS version for the app to work is 10.0 or higher.

What is the overall rating of the app?

Currently, the Open Seas Yacht Club app has no user ratings.

What’s the app category of Open Seas Yacht Club?

The Main Genre Of The Open Seas Yacht Club App Is Productivity.

Which version of the Open Seas Yacht Club app is the latest one?

The newest version of Open Seas Yacht Club is 1.0.

What is the update date for Open Seas Yacht Club?

Open Seas Yacht Club rolled out its latest update on August 31, 2024.

When was the app initially released?

Open Seas Yacht Club originally came out on February 6, 2023.

What is the age rating for Open Seas Yacht Club?

Open Seas Yacht Club is suitable for children aged Gembrook Systems, LLC.

What are the languages supported by Open Seas Yacht Club?

Open Seas Yacht Club is available in Dutch, English, French and 3 more.

Does Apple Arcade offer Open Seas Yacht Club as part of its collection?

No, Open Seas Yacht Club is not featured on Apple Arcade.

Can I make in-app purchases within Open Seas Yacht Club?

No, Open Seas Yacht Club does not include options for in-app purchases.

Can I use Open Seas Yacht Club with Apple Vision Pro?

No, you cannot use Open Seas Yacht Club with Apple Vision Pro.

Are there commercial ads in Open Seas Yacht Club?

No, there are no commercial ads in Open Seas Yacht Club.

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LGBTQ Sailing Clubs Around the World

Sailing and cruising association, knickerbocker sailing association.

Founded in 1980 in order to provide a safe and welcoming community where members could share their love of boating without having to hide their sexuality, the Sailing and Cruising Association has gone on to become the home of LGBT+ boating in the UK. 

 KSA promotes LGBTQ awareness and inclusiveness on the water. We are a diverse group welcoming to all; gay, lesbian, bisexual, straight, and transgender.  Our friendly, nonjudgmental group have joined together to share new experiences on the water and to learn and grow from one another. 

Pacific Rim Yacht Club

Australian sailing & cruising club.

 We are a gay and gay friendly yachting group with members from Vancouver and Vancouver Island, including the Gulf Islands. 

Our Rendezvous Schedule has a number of events throughout the year, many of which can be reached by land. 

The boating experience of our members ranges from the venerable 'old salt' to the complete novice. 

While it's not a requirement to own a boat at present there are few crewing opportunities. 

The Australian Sailing and Cruising Club is a social boating club for people of Diverse Gender and Sexuality (DGS) in Sydney and across Australia. We welcome boats and boaters of all types – sail, power, dinghy, windsurf, kite, kayak – if it floats, you’re welcome to join in! 

Voile et Croisiere en Liberte

 Formed initially from a nucleus of French sailors within the S&CA, once the VCL grew large enough, the VCL was born! For over 30 years, the VCL (Sailing and Cruise in Liberty) has helped gay and lesbian people connect through their passion for the sea, cruising and water sports; welcoming beginners through to experienced skippers. 

Toronto Gay Sailing Club

 TGSC welcomes all members of the LGBTQ community to experience the open waters of Lake Ontario! Sailboat owners and crew welcome! 

Barbary Coast Boating Club

 PINXEEL is a water sports association of and for gay men. Founded in the 80s and has grown into a thriving association with many activities, both on water and on shore, with more than 80 members.  

  The Barbary Coast Boating Club is Northern California's premier LGBT boating experience - a club for those interested in all aspects of on-water fun. Their goal is to provide a safe environment that fosters camaraderie, fun and the enjoyment of boating and other water activities in the company of the LGBTQ & LGBTQ friendly community.  

San Francisco Sailing Team

   Experience sailing with other LGBT sailors in the San Francisco Bay Area, a premier destination for both exciting sailing and a vibrant LGBT community. They race and cruise, both day sails on the Bay or opportunities to sail in places around the world, on chartered boats and privately owned boats.   

Open Seas Yacht Club

    The Open Seas Yacht Club was founded over three decades ago by a group of gay men and women who share a love of boating and the Chesapeake Bay. Their goal is to provide a safe yachting club that fosters camaraderie, fun and the enjoyment of boating and other water activities in the company of gay men and lesbians.    

Boys With Boats

    We're a worldwide LGBT+ social boating club promoting boater education, safety, and environmental stewardship.   

     The Gay and Lesbian Organisation for Racing and Yachting (GLORY) is a global organisation dedicated to promoting, co-ordinating and supporting gay and lesbian sailing and racing around the world.   

Yankee Cruising Club

 The Yankee Cruising Club was founded in 1983 to bring LGBTQ boaters together to meet, make friends, and get out on the water together. We strive to be an open and friendly place for people to socialize and be themselves. You don't need a boat or any boating experience to join.  We have members and events that stretch from Maine to New York. 

Olympic Yacht Club

 We are members and supporters of the LGBTQ communities of Puget Sound who enjoy boating together in the Pacific Northwest. Our club was established in 1979 to provide safe and fun boating activities for our members, along with their families and guests. 

Horizon Yacht Club

Bass lake indiana sailing club.

Horizon Yacht Club is Southern California’s premiere Gay and Lesbian boating organization with over 80 Members and Associate Members from the LGBT community.  Founded in 1978, our membership stretches from Marina del Rey in Los Angeles, down through San Pedro, Long Beach, Huntington Harbor, Newport to San Diego Bay.  

"Bringing sailors and neighbors together for casual races and events..." 

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Celebrate Luxury and Empowerment

Join a community dedicated to uplifting women while indulging in premium experiences.

Navigate with Style: Introducing Our Prestigious Women’s Yacht Club

Experience the opulence of yachting and forge connections with extraordinary women at sea.

Welcome to our exclusive women’s yacht club, where elegance meets sophistication on the open seas. As an esteemed member, you’ll indulge in the luxurious world of yachting while forging connections with like-minded women who share your passion for the sea. Join our club and unlock a world of refined experiences and unparalleled networking opportunities. While our club is invitation-only, we welcome expressions of interest from discerning individuals who appreciate the finer things in life. Apply now to embark on a journey where every moment is infused with the beauty of yachting luxury. Our dedicated team will guide you through the membership process, ensuring your transition into our esteemed community is seamless. Indulge in the allure of the sea and elevate your lifestyle with our exclusive women’s yacht club. Your invitation awaits.

We care about You

Indulge in our premium services tailored to elevate your yachting experience.

Women empowerment

At women yacht club we are dedicated to empowering women and fostering greater inclusion of females in leadership positions within the maritime world and beyond.

Connect with like-minded women in the industry, fostering supportive relationships and opportunities for growth and collaboration.

Happiness and wellbeing

Embark on a transformative journey with us as we redefine luxury through a holistic approach, crafting unforgettable experiences tailored to you.

I think what’s really important is for the industry to educate themselves, to educate owners, builders, everyone in the industry about what our impact on the ocean really is. If you think there isn’t a role for you, there is. If you think you’re too small to make a difference, you’re not. If you look at the scale of the universe we live in and the systems that we study and we work with in all of our philanthropy, there is a place for every kind of scale from the smallest microscopic subatomic particle all the way out to the largest structure in the universe. Think of the ocean as the big life support system for all of humanity, and when we get that in our head and we understand either as boat operators, builders, sailors, people who never got on a boat, people who’ve never even seen the ocean, all of us together are part of the solution because we really want the winner to be the ocean. When the ocean wins, we all win.

Wendy Schmidt, first American women to win a race (Barcolana 54, 2023)

Our Inspirational Journey

With a storied legacy in the maritime domain, the Women Yacht Club symbolizes a transformative odyssey of empowerment and achievement, championing women’s progression in yachting and their inspirational voyage towards societal elevation.   Women Yacht Club aims to empower and provide a platform for women at all levels of yachting industry and business. We believe that by highlighting the achievements and experiences of women, we can inspire, motivate, and encourage others to pursue successful careers in yachting. Woman are succeeding in every part of industry and we advocate for more women leaders.

Empowered women navigate the vast oceans with grace and strength, steering yachts not just as vessels on the water, but as symbols of freedom and adventure. On the waves, they chart their own course, proving that the sea knows no gender, only the bold spirit of its sailors.

Business network and exclusive events

Discover the unparalleled benefits of being a part of our club, where innovation, inspiration, and diversity intersect. Be part of inspirational events and experiences. 

High-end events

In our continuous effort to provide unparalleled experiences and foster deeper connections with our clients, we are excited to introduce the organization of exclusive pop-up art shows as a key component of our client engagement strategy. These events are meticulously designed to not only showcase exceptional art but also to create a unique, immersive experience that resonates with our distinguished clientele.

Inclusivity Advocate

Yacht club connects female yacht owners together yet we champion diversity, ensuring a welcoming environment for all women passionate about yachting.

Make Your Moments

Join Our Exclusive Circle

Experience the lifestyle, network with industry leaders, and empower yourself in the world of yachting by becoming a member.

OPEN SEAS? : Yacht Clubs Argue That They’re Not Just for Rich Men

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What’s the first thing that comes to mind when someone mentions yacht clubs?

Do you think about the America’s Cup or about Dr. I. M. Rich sipping Dom Perignon and eating caviar while playing in the water with his million-dollar toy?

Do you think about the Congressional Cup and other regattas or about some millionaire drifting along in I Have More Money Than You, a mile-long boat with more luxuries than some Caribbean nations?

The stereotype of yachting as a rich man’s sport exists, although yachtsmen say it is, in many cases, unwarranted.

Despite their protests, however, yachting continues to be perceived as the stuffy sport of the pretentious--so much so, in fact, that the United States Yachting Assn., yachting’s governing body, has been trying to change its name to the U.S. Sailing Assn. in an effort to escape the perception and attract more members.

In reality, however, yacht clubs, as do the members and their boats, come in all shapes and sizes--although there isn’t quite as much variety in the sport’s color, lily-white.

Yes, there are ritzy, ostentatious clubs but there are also modest, uncomplicated ones. In fact, of the 73 yacht clubs in Southern California, you can find one that is ideally suited for Thurston B. Howell III and then, just across the marina, another that is perfect for Gilligan.

There is, for example, the Newport Harbor Yacht Club, which keeps its membership fees confidential, reasoning that if you have to ask, you can’t afford it. And then there is the South Bay Yacht Racing Club, which charges only $35 annually and gives members a $10 discount if they work actively in the club.

There is the Catalina Island Yacht Club--with its $6,000 initiation fee, $600 annual fee and a five-year waiting list--which refuses to share its popular facility in Avalon with other clubs. And then there is the Belmont Shore Sailing Assn.--$15 initiation fee, $20 annual fee, no waiting list--which doesn’t even have a facility to share.

There is the Long Beach Yacht Club, which has a state-of-the-art facility, complete with a spacious room for wedding receptions and a ballroom in which live orchestras entertain every weekend. And then there is the Los Angeles Yacht Club, which has little more than 40 blue plastic chairs for meetings and which is sandwiched between a federal prison and a tuna cannery that gives off a pungent odor.

There are big clubs such as the California Yacht Club with its 1,225 members, and small ones such as the Buccaneer Yacht Club with its 70. There are formal clubs such as the San Diego Yacht Club, which requires two sponsors and six references, and informal ones such as the Pierpont Bay Yacht Club, which has a rule against neckties.

There are specialty clubs such as the Cerritos Bahia Yacht Club, consisting of all powerboaters, and diverse ones such as the Chula Vista Yacht Club, which is 43% powerboaters, 29% percent sailboaters and 28% non-boat owners.

“The average yacht club member is offended by the stereotype,” said Paul Frazier, who next year will become the Long Beach club’s commodore, or highest ranking officer. “There are all sorts of clubs, ranging from full-service clubs with fancy restaurants to so-called paper clubs, which own little more than a post-office box.”

For the most part, paper clubs are designed for those of average income. They usually have modest fees and, although they do not have facilities, they often use those of the bigger clubs through reciprocal privileges offered by clubs in the Southern California Yachting Assn. There are 17 paper clubs in the 73-member SCYA, 14 of which have fewer than 100 members.

“I started in yachting in an eight-foot boat,” said Harold Romberg, commodore of the 43-member Marina Yacht Club of Long Beach. “I moved up to a 14-foot boat and thought it was a huge boat. I was king of the sea. This is about fun, not money.”

Ironically, however, the most popular clubs are also the more expensive ones.

For example, although it is unusual for a club with an initiation fee of less than $1,500 to have a waiting list at all, the 1,100-member San Diego Yacht Club, which has an initiation fee of up to $10,000, has a four-year wait just to get an application. And there usually is another year’s wait after that. Likewise, the 500-member Del Rey Yacht Club, which also has an initiation fee of $10,000, has a waiting list of more than three years.

“We don’t need any more members,” said Joan Semper, manager of the Del Rey Yacht Club. “We don’t need John Q. Public standing at the door, wanting to mingle with some of our wealthy and famous guests.”

About that stereotype . . .

“There is a lot of arrogance in this sport,” said Vic Pollard, commodore of the Westlake Yacht Club in Marina del Rey. “There is a snobbiness, and it is even stronger in some of the bigger clubs that get an elitist attitude because of their wealth and possessions.”

Perhaps that atmosphere explains why yacht clubs have so few black members. David Poe, editor of a monthly Southern California sailing magazine, estimates that there are “less than a dozen blacks” who belong to area yacht clubs, a surprisingly low number considering that there are more than 20,000 SCYA members overall.

There are other minorities heavily represented--Asians, for example--but blacks are almost entirely absent. In fact, many commodores say that Poe’s less-than-a-dozen estimate might even be a little high.

The common explanation is that blacks simply don’t apply, but Larry Ambrose, commodore of the Belmont Shore Sailing Assn., offers another. “Blacks have not gotten into this sport, and I would say it’s because they are not warmly received,” Ambrose said.

Although his 94-member club doesn’t have any black members, Ambrose said it’s because they haven’t applied, and that they would be welcome if they did.

Said Willis Edwards, president of the Beverly Hills-Hollywood branch of the National Assn. for the Advancement of Colored People: “It is a silent, unspoken code, not blatant racism. In order to get into a club, you have to be invited into it. You have to know people. Will a white person sponsor a black person?”

Nathan Johnson, a pharmacist, and his wife, Dorothy, are the only black members in the 1,225-member California Yacht Club. Their 21-year-old son, Eric, is also applying for membership and the Johnsons say they have never encountered any instances of racism.

But Dorothy does offer an explanation as to why there are so few black members.

“Perhaps black people are going on past information and rumors concerning rejection of minorities in those places,” she said. “But we have been very well accepted.”

Some other Yacht club members agreed with Ambrose, saying that that blacks simply don’t apply for membership and that they would be welcome if they did. Other explanations for the lack of blacks include that yachting is too expensive and that inner-city black children haven’t been brought up on yachting.

There have been, however, other kinds of blatant discrimination in yachting. Less than a year ago, for example, women weren’t allowed in the bar area of the St. Francis Yacht Club in San Francisco, one of the most prestigious clubs in the United States. And even today, women aren’t allowed in the bar at the New York Yacht Club, perhaps the nation’s most prestigious club.

Here in the Southland, in nearly any yacht club, prominently displayed are pictures of white male commodores, past and present, lined up on the wall, usually right next to the shrine-like glass cases where the racing trophies are kept.

The California Yacht Club is an exception. There hangs a picture of Betta Mortarotti, who this year became the first female commodore of a major yacht club.

“Stepping into a man’s world is quite a big step,” she said. “For many years this was a sport for rich males, but that has changed in the last 10 years.”

Mortarotti is at least half right. Yacht clubs are still dominated by males, but they are no longer necessarily dominated by rich males. Although there are many yachtsmen like Roy Disney, owner of a 50-foot and a 70-foot boat, there are also many like Matthew Portz, owner of no boat.

Portz said he used to own a boat but can’t afford one now, so he simply continues to spend his free time at the Long Beach Yacht Club soaking in the sun and the atmosphere, just as he used to do when he had a boat.

Portz, a retired aerospace worker, may be something of an extreme case, but so, too, are the members with million-dollar boats.

The average yacht club member, according to the SCYA, owns a boat 24 feet or shorter, although there are boats as small as eight feet and as large as 120. The SCYA estimates that the average yacht club member has owned his boat for more than five years and that it is worth less than $8,000. Also, the average cost to join a non-paper club is $1,913 for initiation fees and $76 a month.

It costs about $5,000 for a good, used sailboat in the 20- to 30-foot range. Powerboats of the same size can cost up to twice as much, but sailboat owners make up more than 65% of Southern California yacht club members.

More than the club or boat costs, however, it is the upkeep that usually drowns the modest-income members in expenses. Rent for an aquatic parking space, known as a slip, costs about $8 monthly per foot of boat, so a 25-foot sailboatcosts about $200 a month to park. “Slip costs are what is sort of pushing the little guy out,” said Frazier, the Long Beach commodore-to-be. “Slip rates have been going up much faster than inflation rates, more at the rate of medical insurance.”

Slips, in fact, have become so expensive that many people try to get the most out of them by doing what is known as slip sailing--that is, using the boat to get some sun, or simply to get out of the house, without ever leaving the slip.

Other people, as did 16 members of the California Yacht Club, simply sell their houses and live on their boats year-round.

“We raised five children and always lived in spacious houses with swimming pools,” said Bunny Rippel, who lives with her husband, Bob, in a cramped 41-foot powerboat. “We gave the kids everything and moved into the boat, and we’ve loved it.

“It’s a marvelous way of life, to be surrounded by neighbors who are, so to speak, in the same boat. And, hell, we look at our beautiful back yard and don’t even have to cut the lawn anymore.”

There are other ways for rank-and-file yacht club members to cut the costs. Many yachtsmen cut corners by simply storing their boats on trailers at home, avoiding slip expenses. They then have to pay only launching fees. And many families purchase boats together, sharing it and the expenses.

“That yachting is a rich man’s sport is a big misconception,” said Robert Mole, a 12-year member of the Los Angeles Yacht Club. “I’m a retired naval officer and retired naval officers don’t make a lot of money.”

Mole was saying this in the club’s rickety main building, which used to be blue and white before the paint started chipping. The club has been operating since 1903, making it one of the oldest in the area, and it’s obvious from the surroundings that it hasn’t changed much over the years.

There are no Jacuzzis here, no tennis courts, no ballrooms, no dining facilities. The floors are wood. The boats aren’t even in slips but rather anchored in the middle of Fish Harbor, making for a view that belongs on a postcard. If this were a movie, it would be in black and white.

“It’s simple here,” Mole said. “Sailing itself is an old way of propulsion, so it represents the past and that makes it comfortable. This is one of the few clubs where grandfather, father and grandchildren have been members.”

Middle-class members, he made sure to note before getting up and walking to his car at the end of a dusty, dead-end street.

And there, he was parked between an apple-red Porsche and a dented station wagon.

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Travel Tips to Kabardino-Balkaria: More than Mt. Elbrus!

If you’ve traveled to the North Caucasus before, there is a good chance you’ve already been to Kabardino-Balkaria, and you didn’t even know it!  Kabardino-Balkaria lies in the center of the North Caucasus region, is home to Mt. Elbrus, but more than that is a treasure chest of travel possibilities.  Here is our guide to traveling through the republic of Kabardino-Balkaria, or 9 travel tips to this beautiful land:

1. How do I get there?

Kabardino-Balkaria hosts a large number of both foreign and Russian travelers every year, and has an improving infrastructure able to handle the incoming masses.  Let’s start with the obvious.  You might be a mountain climber or skier coming to enjoy the slopes of Mt. Elbrus.  That means you’re likely arriving on an airplane to Russia.  Here are your travel options:

A. Plane – We advise you fly into the Mineralni Vodi (MRV) airport in the Stavropol Region, which is about 45 minutes from the border of Kabardino-Balkaria.  MRV is the largest airport in the North Caucasus, and has daily direct flights to and from all 3 airpots in Moscow (SVO, DME, and VKO), direct flights from St. Petersburg, and several international flight routes as well, including from Istanbul, Dubai, Greece, Tel Aviv, and Bishkek.  The MRV airport has a growing infrastructure and is the most obvious choice to fly into if going to Elbrus.  From MRV, it’s a 2 hr. drive to Nalchik, and a 3.5 hr. drive to Mt. Elbrus.

That being said, the capital of Kabardino-Balkaria, Nalchik (NAL), also has a small regional airport with a daily flight to/from Moscow as well as weekly flights to Istanbul. As is to be expected in most smaller, regional airports around Russia, the service standard at a small airport like this will be minimal.  As a result, we recommend you flying in and out of MRV if able.  It’s a 2 hr. drive to Elbrus from Nalchik.  You can also fly into other regional airports which are 2 hrs. from Nalchik, such as OGZ in North Ossetia (Vladikavkaz) or IGT in Ingushetia (Magas).

B.  Car/Public Transport – If you have a car, are using a taxi, or are hitch-hiking your way to Kabardino-Balkaria, the region is accessible by a variety of roads and vehicles.  A major Russian federal highway E50 runs through Pyatigorsk into Kabardino-Balkaria, and can take you towards Mt. Elbrus, Nalchik, and deeper into the North Caucasus.  There are daily mini-buses, or “marshrutkas”, that travel to Nalchik from Pyatigorsk, Vladikavkaz, Grozny, and Magas, if you’re coming from a neighboring republic.  From the main Nalchik bus station, there is a marshrutka that goes to Terskol (i.e. Mt. Elbrus) daily around 12:30 pm; for that matter,  marshrutkas run daily into every valley of this beautiful republic.  For the seasoned international traveler, you can drive from the country of Georgia up the famed “Georgian Military Highway” through the heart of the Caucasus Mountains, cross the border into Russia at the “Verkhni Lars” border stop, and be in Nalchik in about 2.5 hours as well. 

Anyone traveling on their own should download the “Yandex” taxi app, which is Russia’s version of Uber, and has a very user-friendly app with affordable prices.  In smaller villages/towns where Yandex’s service doesn’t reach, just ask a local and they’ll direct you to a friend or relative who can taxi you where you need to go!

C.  Train – Kabardino-Balkaria is also very accessible by the famous cross-country Russian train system if that’s your preferred method of travel.  Almost all trains to the North Caucasus pass through Mineralni Vodi in the Stavropol region to the north, so make sure wherever you are coming from, Mineralni Vodi is one of the stops.  Despite Nalchik having a train station, the city is about 45 minutes from the main railway route that runs diagonal through the North Caucasus, and as a result it’s a bit convoluted to get a train directly to Nalchik.  That being said, the town Prokhladni is a regular stop on trains going to/coming from Baku, Makhachkala, Grozny, Nazran, and Vladikavkaz, so you can always hop off there and find your way by public transport or taxi.

2.  What are the best places to stay?

This list could get exhaustive, fast. 🙂  Let’s first look at an overview of the republic’s geography, followed by hotel recommendations:

A. Nalchik – This is the capital city of Kabardino-Balkaria, with a population of around 250,000.  Nalchik is growing and new, modern hotels are being built regularly.  Here are some of our recommendations:

-Modern and comfortable:  Azimut , Butik Otel

-Budget with less frills:  Hotel Rossia , Korona

You could comfortably spend a week in Nalchik, while doing day trips into Kabardino-Balkaria’s beautiful mountain valleys.

B.  Baksan Valley – This is the most traveled road in Kabardino-Balkaria, the road to Mt. Elbrus.  If you have questions about its safety because of travel warnings, please see our detailed blog here of the drive to erase any doubts or fears.  Needless to say, because of the draw of Mt. Elbrus, there are a huge variety of lodging options at the end of this valley, from 4-star to mid-range to budget to hostel.  Here are just a few we’ll recommend from our experience:

-Modern and comfortable 4-star-ish:  Azau Star , Kristall 139

-Budget with less frills 3-star-ish:   Laguna , Povorot

If you’re a mountain climber with your sites set on the summit of Elbrus, you’ll have to spend at least 3-4 nights at Elbrus’s famous base camp at 13,000 feet.  The “barrel huts” are not easy to book directly with, and we highly recommend you do your climb (and hence, have your bookings handled) through a trusted climbing company.  Here are two shelters at base camp we recommend:

-Modern and comfortable:  Leaprus

-Budget with less frills:  Heart of Elbrus Lodge

If you’re interested in climbing Mt. Elbrus and staying in these barrel huts, click  here  to see our climbing itineraries, pricing, and group dates.

C.  Chegem Valley – Chegem Valley is the adjacent valley to Elbrus’s Baksan Valley, and is famous for its beautiful waterfalls as well as being Russia’s top paragliding location.  The “ Paradrome ” has modest accommodations for those wanting to get to know this beautiful valley for a longer period of time.

D.  Upper Balkaria, or Cherek Valley – This is another beautiful mountain gorge not too far from Nalchik.  There is an authentic lodging complex in Upper Balkaria called Tau-El, with amazing local food for meals as well.

E.  Border Zone lodging – Several of Kabardino-Balkaria’s mountain gorges run into the border zone with neighboring country Georgia, i.e. an area that foreigners cannot enter without a special permit from the local government (often taking 2 months to receive).  There is a famous mountaineering lodge in Bezengi Valley, where several generations of Russian mountain climbers have honed their craft in the Caucasus Mountains.  Perpendicular to Baksan Valley (about 25 minutes from the base of Mt. Elbrus) is Adyr-Suu Valley, where there is a lodge for back-country skiers to stay, while trying their hands (and feet!) on the untouched snow of that valley.  Both these valleys require border permits for foreigners, but are possible to access for the more adventurous!

3.  Top cities to visit?

Most locals would agree that Nalchik is the main city of significance to visit in Kabardino-Balkaria, but let’s be honest, even more would say, “Just go to the mountains!”  Tirnauz is the capital of the Elbrus district, and is an interesting town to spend some time in, with its unique location in the mountains and place in Soviet history as a once-booming mining town.  The main thing to consider in visiting Nalchik and other cities in the lowlands, is the chance to experience Kabardian culture and food.  Whereas the deeper you go into the valleys, the more you’ll encounter Balkar culture and food.

4.  Best local foods to try?

There are 3 types of food that come to mind, when spending time in Kabardino-Balkaria:

A. Khychiny – This is one of the staple national dishes of the Balkar people, and what you’ll inevitably be served if guests of local Balkars.  It’s a thin buttery flat bread, sometimes cooked with fillings of cottage cheese, fresh greens, or potatoes.  It is often slathered in butter, but wow is that some tasty greasy goodness! 🙂

B.  Shashlik – Shashlik is a MUST for any visit anywhere in the North Caucasus!  Most people would agree that it’s the national food of the entire region.  Shashlik is meat shish kabobs; while pork and turkey can be found in some parts of the Caucasus, lamb or chicken are the preferred shashlik meats of choice in Kabardino-Balkaria. 

C.  Soup – No matter where you are in Russia, you’re sure to find a local soup that people love.  Kabardino-Balkaria is no different.  Especially in the winter months in the mountain valleys, there’s nothing better than to come inside from the cold weather and warm your body up to a bowl of hearty Caucasus soup.  Whether Georgian kharcho or local Balkar lakhman, make sure to try your hand at one of these soups with a side of fresh baked bread/lavash!

5.  Top Hole-In-The-Wall restaurants:

Of course, for a republic of this size, we’re bound to leave at least a few great local joints off our list, but here are a few to get you started. ***Note:  Restaurants in the North Caucasus are much better known for their food than their service, so prepare for tasty food, but manage your expectations about service:

-Elbrus – Kogutai Restaurant at Mt. Cheget – While this isn’t a hole-in-the-wall restaurant per se, it’s one of many to choose from in the Cheget tourist village, and we have found them to provide consistently good food and service.  Kogutai has a nice interior, and maybe most important, an English-language menu with good pictures. 🙂  There also is a nice outdoor patio with fantastic views of the surrounding mountains.

-Nalchik #1 – Tameris Restaurant – This is a cafe with a relaxed atmosphere in the capital Nalchik.  Local tour company Elbrus Elevation has taken foreign groups there on multiple occasions and always had good experiences.  Address is ul. Kuliyeva 3. 

-Nalchik #2 – Cafe-Bar Oasis – You have to know where this restaurant is to find it, but once inside, you won’t regret it!  There is a unique cafeteria-style ordering process, that includes several dishes being cooked on the spot once ordered.  You can sample local Kabardian dishes here.  The seating area is very modern and a pleasant atmosphere to have a meal in.  Address is ul. Kuliyeva 2. 

-Upper Balkaria – Tau-El Restaurant – This is the restaurant part of the Tau-El Tourist Complex in Upper Balkaria.  Whether spending the night or just passing through, make sure to stop here for a meal!

6.  Must-See Sites

This republic is so chock full of “must-see” destinations, it’s impossible to narrow the list down.  Here are just a few suggestions to get you started: (***Mt. Elbrus is a no-brainer and we’re assuming that’s on your list)

A. El-Tyubu and Paradrome – This is an amazing area towards the end of Chegem Valley.  Many tourists visit the famous Chegem Waterfalls and don’t drive any further down this gorge, which really is a shame.  El-Tyubu is a picturesque Balkar village with several historical sites to see, including some ancient mausoleums.  The real gem of the area, though, is the Paradrome , which is Russia’s premier paragliding destination.  The combination of the scenic surrounding mountains and constant winds produces almost daily conditions to sail through the beautiful Caucasus sky.  Highly recommend!

B.  Upper Balkaria – Also known as Cherek Valley, the entire drive to the actual village of Upper Balkaria is one big destination.  First, you can spend time at the 3 consecutive “ Blue Lakes ”, one of which is one of Russia’s deepest lakes with an underground spring.  Then, the drive itself becomes an adventure, as you pass by steep rock walls with a huge drop-off on the other side.  If you’re able to walk this part of the road, that is a bonus!  Once you’ve made your way through the valley walls, the region opens up into a beautiful panoramic view.  Many years ago, there were multiple villages in this region, but they’ve since been condensed into one main village.  You can see some of the ancient Balkar towers that their ancestors used to live in as well.

C.  Djili-Suu – Although hard to pronounce and not easy to get to, Djili-Suu is one of those places in the North Caucasus that people rave about that you “have to” visit.  It’s actually on the North side of Mt. Elbrus, and more accessible from the Mineral Waters region (2 hrs. from Kislovodsk).  The base camp for Elbrus climbers summiting the mountain from the North side is at Djili-Suu.  This area is famous in Russia for its numerous natural healing springs, as well as unique climate conditions that make for beneficial, long holidays for seeking a respite from their daily grind.  There are wide swaths of land available for camping, with probably the most unrivaled views of Mt. Elbrus in the North Caucasus.  Make sure to check this out!

7.  Off-the-beaten path destinations

A. King’s Waterfalls (Tsarskie), or Gedmisht – Probably the valley in Kabardino-Balkaria with the least amount of hype is the Malka Valley, which is the northernmost valley and mainly runs through the Kabardian lowlands.  At the point where the villages end, though (Khabas), the asphalt turns into dirt and the hills start to rise, culminating with the incredible King’s Waterfalls, or as one friend put it, Avatar Waterfalls.  These stunning waterfalls are best visited in the early summer, when everything is lush green and the water flow is strong, with many streams of water flowing down the earth’s surface.  The different colors are incredible and it’s hard to look away.  Once you’ve enjoyed the waterfalls, enjoy a meal of shashlik at one of the nearby lunch huts.  Having an off-road vehicle is ideal to visit these falls, but worth the time and effort!

B.  One-seater chair lift at Elbrus – As the infrastructure at Mt. Elbrus has modernized, some of the more “authentic” experiences have gone to the way-side.  This is one experience still available, though!  From the 2nd (11,000 ft.) to 3rd level (12,500 ft.) of Mt. Elbrus (whether skiing, going to base camp, or just touring), there is a single-seater chair lift for 100 rubles each way (less than $2).  This is an amazing experience if you have the time.  It’s 8-10 minutes each way, and a surreal experience of the majestic Caucasus mountain range surrounding you, skiers silently passing you by underneath, and in general enjoying the silent expanse of nature all around.  The chair lifts are from the Soviet times and so it feels like something from a different era.  For mountain climbers, the newer group cable car gives better access to most of base camp, but several huts are pretty close to this chair lift, so it still may be a good option for you.

C.  Abandoned Mines above Tirnauz – Tirnauz is about 1 hr. from Mt. Elbrus, and a town everyone drives through to and from the mountain.  Although today it looks old and half-abandoned, it was a booming mining town in the 20th century.  About a 45-minute drive above the city with an off-road vehicle, you can see the remains of the mining operations.  Learning about this history combined with the breath-taking views of the Baksan Valley and even into Georgia, you’ll wonder why more people aren’t visiting this place.  This is a great spot to see eagles soaring in the sky, as well as admire the Soviet city plan of Tirnauz from above.

8.  What do I need border zone passes to visit?

In Russia, any area within 5-10 km of a neighboring country, without a clearly delineated border (i.e. in the mountains) is considered a special border zone, and patrolled by Russian border guards.  This area IS accessible to all Russian citizens with their passports, but is NOT legally accessible to foreign citizens UNLESS you have a special permit from the FSB (Federal Security Bureau).  These permits are accessible, either through a tour operator or local friend, but require you to submit your application 45-60 days in advance.

Areas in Kabardino-Balkaria that are worth a visit if you have a border zone pass:

A.  Bezengi Wall – This is at the end of the Bezengi Valley, and holds a place of lore among Russian mountain climbers.  Many mountain guides go through training in this valley.  Five of the Caucasus Mountain’ range’s highest seven peaks are a part of the Bezengi Wall, so you can imagine the draw it has for climbers. There are great areas for trekking and camping in this area. 

B.  Adyr-Suu Gorge – This remote valley runs perpendicular to Baksan Valley and is about 25 minutes from the base of Mt. Elbrus.  It’s marked at the entrance by a relic of the past, a car lift from Soviet days that auto-cranks your car (and you) about 50 meters up the mountain.  After 45-60 minutes of driving on gravel road, the gorge opens up into a flat valley with a beautiful view of the surrounding mountains.  The Adyr-Suu Alpine Lodge is at the end of this valley and where back-country skiers base out of during the acclimatization phase of their Mt. Elbrus ski tours.  This is truly a place where you can experience untouched powder!

C.  Mt. Cheget (Elbrus) – Cheget is a neighboring mountain to Mt. Elbrus and where many climbers will acclimatize, both at its base and while doing some hikes.  It also is famous in Russia for its free-ride terrain for more experienced skiers.  Standard access to the chair lifts and mountain are available to all (i.e. mountain climbers don’t need to worry about accidentally crossing into the zone), but anyone wanting to summit the peak of Cheget OR visit the beautiful Cheget Lake needs a border permit. 

Foreigners violating the border zone areas is considered a serious offense in Russia; make sure to do your due diligence if wanting to visit one of these areas!  We highly recommend using a local tour operator and always traveling with a local person if visiting one of these areas.

9.  Any cultural “do’s” or “don’t’s” to be aware of

Kabardino-Balkaria is a fascinating republic with a combination of traditional and modern society.  The more you interact with local people, the more you’ll see a mixture of Muslim faith, post-Soviet mentality, and ancient local traditions all wrapped together.   

Kabardians mainly live in the lowlands (Nalchik, Baksan, and lowland villages), while Balkars primarily live in the mountain valleys (Elbrus, Chegem, Upper Balkaria, etc.).  There is a large population of Russians in the region as well.  Foreigners visit every area of the region regularly, and so local people are used to and will welcome your presence.

Come with an open mind to learn about these peoples, their traditions, and their land.  You won’t regret your trip to Kabardino-Balkaria!

***Want to learn more?  Here are several self-published resources from the podcast “ CaucasTalk ” related to Kabardino-Balkaria:

– Travel Tips to Kabardino-Balkaria (audio version of this blog)

– History of Mt. Elbrus (Part 1)

– History of Mt. Elbrus (Part 2)

– Interview with Local Elbrus guide

– Climbing Elbrus: Interview with American guide

– Who are the Kabardians? (Part 1)

– Who are the Kabardians? (Part 2)

– Skiing in the North Caucasus (Elbrus and more)

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Travel Information

• We no longer offer travel services to Russia. See Caucasus Quest Tours for new destinations
• Is it Safe to Travel to the Caucasus in 2024?
• Climbing Kazbek & Kilimanjaro: Comparing two 5,000+ meter peaks
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Visiting Russia - Nalchik, Capital of Kabardino-Balkaria

By Koryo Tours

Nalchik, capital of Kabardino-Balkaria

Visiting Russia – Nalchik

Yoshkar-ola | cheboksary  |  astrakhan | elista | stalingrad (volograd)  | abakan  |  nalchik  | validkavkaz  | makhachkala  |  grozny.

Nalchik is a small city of around 240,000 people and serves as the capital of Kabardino-Balkaria, one of the lesser-known republics spread across the beautiful North Caucasus area of Russia, the mountain range that separates the former soviet states of Georgia, Armenia, and Azerbaijan from the Russian Federation.

This region has incredible diversity in ethnic groups and is a melting pot at the edge of empire. While there have been civilisations in the Caucasus for millennia Nalchik as a city is only a century old, having been a Russian fort since 1724. Today’s Nalchik is a mostly peaceful and relaxing place, being in the foothills of the mountains it has many areas of great beauty and multiple sanatoria for people looking to take the waters, over the last century it has certainly had its share of turbulence though, being occupied by Romanian troops fighting on the side of the Nazis, who embarked on an effort to exterminate the ancient community of Mountain Jews in the area (unsuccessfully), plus a 2005 Islamic militant attack on Russian security forces.

These days Nalchik is known as a clean city, a place for relaxing, and the starting point of expeditions to summit Mt. Elbrus, the tallest mountain in Europe, which lies within Kabardino-Balkaria.

Kabardians make up the largest ethnic group at just under 50% of the city’s population, followed by Russians, Balkars, other Caucasian nationalities as well as Ukrainians, Mountain Jews still live in the area but in very small numbers now, most having emigrated to Israel.

Arriving/Departing

Nalchik Airport (NAL) is a small one but is fully functional for getting in and out, usually the foreigners arriving here will be mountaineers heading for Elbrus.

The Airport is only 3km from the city centre so you could even walk into town from here, otherwise, there are taxis and marshrutkas waiting for arrivals. Flights arrive only from Moscow and St. Petersburg usually, the Caucasus has other larger airports for other international flights (such as those to Sochi). Nalchik has a railway station, dating from 1915, with links to Moscow and across the Caucasus. A good option for travelling around the region in a relaxing manner (usually slower than taking a marshrutka between cities though) For getting around inside Nalchik there are public buses all over the place, easy to use and very cheap. Otherwise most of the centre is very walkable, the main ‘high street’ is Lenin Avenue, which runs for several km through the centre of the city.

Concord Square

The centre of Nalchik and a good place to start a walking tour of the city, with the Kabardino-Balkaria parliament building on one side and Lenin stands at the other, fountains in the middle and Lenin Avenue cutting through the square

Religious Buildings

The central buildings of the main religions practised in Nalchik are both fine examples of their respective architectural styles; the Central Mosque and the Cathedral of Mary Magdalene are both worth visiting. Dress codes apply.

Not actually in Nalchik, but only 50km or so away so the city is the ideal base for starting an expedition. This is Europe’s highest mountain and a dormant volcano. There are cable car/chairlift options to get t the top for those who don’t wish to do it the hard way. It is possible to get up and down this mountain n a single day, making it certainly the simplest of the 7 continental highest peaks to climb.

Museum of the Kabardino-Balkar Republic

Great for explaining where you are and the history of the area. Mostly in Russian only though and does tend to assume some knowledge in advance. Still a good stop to get some intro into the complex history of this city and area in general.

Atazhukin Garden

A large park complex running for more than 2km along the eastern side of the city, alongside the Nalchik River. A very pleasant place with so much to see and do. The basic Nalchik Zoo is here, walking trails, restaurants and cafes, theatres, a very retro funfair, and a rickety but reliable cable car running up to a lovely viewpoint to see over the city and out to Mt. Elbrus.

Topped by a restaurant building built in the shape of a Kabardian warrior. An excellent few hours can be spent exploring this park and mingling with the locals of all ages who do their relaxing here.

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