Eight Bells: Albie Stewart

The Royal BVI Yacht Club is deeply saddened to report the passing of Mr. Albie Stewart. A founder member of the BVI Yacht Club, Mr. Stewart served as Commodore from 1994 to 1997 and over the years, also served as Vice-Commodore, Captain of Sailing and committed numerous hours to volunteering. In the 1960s he was part of a group organizing Sunfish regattas in the BVI and it was the work of this group of enthusiasts that saw the Club officially formed in 1973.

Mr. Stewart was an integral part of the team who set up the BVI Spring Regatta in 1972, working as the Race and Committee Boat Chairman for many years. His dedication to delivering quality racing was a major contributor to the success and reputation of the event as a world class regatta.

He is fondly remembered by the sailing community as a true gentleman in every sense who always had a kind word. Current Chairman, Robert Phillips commented, “Albie was a mentor for many years until he moved north with Joyce. He was always there with sage advice for the Yacht Club, the Regatta, and just about all facets of life and business in the BVI, he will be sorely missed.”

Chris Haycraft recalls being Albie’s ‘right-hand-boy’ on the Spring Regatta Committee Boat. Handing over fresh cartridges for the starting shotgun aboard Yellow Bird and collecting the used ones to the point of getting his own cartridge belt for Christmas one year. The Royal BVI Yacht Club extends condolences to the family and friends of Albie Stewart, he will be greatly missed.