Originally published on Friday, 15th May 2009

The Finer Things In Life

Today sees the launch of a brand new members' club to add to the capital's collection. Another month, another boozer, right? Well, sort of. Except that this one floats, used to serve cheap spring rolls and will now set you back £10k per year membership.

After an immense refurb, The Yacht at Temple Pier is unashamedly aimed at the high-rollers of the world. Alongside One Alfred Place-style office facilities, top-tier members get their own restaurant and bar, plus a private 12-course buffet dinner for 100 pals. Did I mention the 24ct gold-plated membership card?

In times when the likes of easyJet are pondering in-flight marriage ceremonies to save pennies (wonder what that spontaneity will do for divorce stats) and Ryanair with a ‘fat-tax’, you’d think there was no place for such fiscal abandon.

Thankfully, The Yacht does offer a vastly-discounted base membership. At a paltry £500 p.a. that's a full £200 less than Shoreditch House – and with the Thames at its back door, the pool is certainly larger. Although I do hear the lifeguards aren't as cute.

The Yacht at Temple Pier
Victoria Embankment, WC2R

by AC