HomeSail Training Program

Learn to Sail at the Kitsilano Yacht Club

Whether you’re a complete beginner, an experienced sailor looking to refine your skills, or an aspiring racer, Kitsilano Yacht Club (KYC) has the perfect program for you.

We are a CANSail training site registered with BC Sailing and Sail Canada. Our instructors teach CANSail levels 1 through 6, starting with basic skills for beginners and progressing to more intermediate sailing skills. All of our sailing courses are taught by Sail Canada certified instructors with a very low student to instructor ratio.

Explore our programs below and get started on your sailing journey today!

Why Learn to Sail at KYC?

CANSail-Certified Instructors – Learn from expert instructors using the national standard.
A Community on the Water – Join a welcoming group of sailors of all ages and skill levels.
Progressive Learning Pathways – Programs for complete beginners to advanced racers.
Sailing in Beautiful English Bay – The perfect spot to build confidence on the water!

Adult Sailing Programs

Find freedom on the water! Whether you're looking for a fun introduction to sailing or want to sharpen your skills, we have a program for you. Our courses are designed for all experience levels, from total beginners to seasoned sailors ready for the next challenge.

Discover Sailing – Try It Out!

Not sure if sailing is for you? Discover Sailing is a one-time experience where you'll hop aboard with an instructor, feel the wind in your sails, and get a taste of the sport—no commitment needed!

Ready Set Sail – Beginner Course

🌊 The perfect first step into sailing! This introductory program covers basic boat handling, safety, and essential sailing skills in a fun and supportive environment. No prior experience required!

CANSail 1 & 2 – Learn to Sail

A comprehensive beginner-friendly course where you'll gain confidence on the water while learning to:

Rig and de-rig a sailboat
Steer and control sails in various conditions
Sail independently in light to moderate winds

CANSail 3 & 4 – Skill Development

For sailors ready to take it up a notch! Build confidence and independence as you:

Fine-tune sail trim and boat handling
Learn advanced techniques for sailing in stronger winds
Prepare for independent sailing or club racing

Salty Sisters – Women’s Sailing Group

Join a supportive and adventurous community of women sailors! The Salty Sisters program is designed for women of all skill levels who want to learn, sail, and build confidence on the water together. Enjoy expert instruction, casual sailing, and great company in a relaxed, social setting.

View Full Course Details & Register → Click here

Youth Sailing Programs

Inspiring the next generation of sailors! Our youth programs teach sailing in an engaging, supportive environment. From first-time sailors to those looking to develop racing skills, we have a course for every young sailor.

Beginner Programs (Ages 6-12)

Wetfeet (Ages 6-8) – A fun introduction to sailing through games, adventure, and hands-on learning.

Sail & Paddle (Ages 8-12) – A mix of sailing, stand-up paddleboarding (SUP), and kayaking—perfect for kids who love being on the water!

Opti Fun (Ages 8-12) – Beginner-friendly sailing in Optimist dinghies, with a focus on fun and exploration.

Skill Development (Ages 8-16)

CANSail Basic (Ages 11-16) – Covers CANSail 1 & 2, helping sailors build fundamental skills and confidence on the water.

Opti 1 & 2 (Ages 8-12) – Progressive training in Optimists, focusing on steering, boat handling, and independent sailing.

Racing & Competitive Programs

Opti Race (Ages 8-12) – Introduction to sailboat racing in Optimists, focusing on speed, strategy, and competition in a supportive environment.

View Full Course Details & Register → Click here

Racing & Competitive Programs

Take your sailing to the next level! Our racing programs are for sailors looking to develop speed, tactics, and confidence on the racecourse.

Junior Racing Teams - Starting Fall 2025

Opti Race (Ages 8-12) – Intro to sailboat racing in Optimists.
420 Race (Ages 12-16) – Double-handed sailing with racing techniques.

Adult & Youth Competitive Programs

CANSail Advanced (Ages 12-16) – Covers CANSail 3 & 4, refining advanced skills.
Club Racing & Regattas – Join our KYC racing community and compete locally.

View Full Course Details & Register → Registration Coming Soon

Ready to Get Started?

Spots fill up fast—secure your place today and start your sailing journey!

Questions? Email us or call (604) 730-1646.