BEGINNER

Our BEGINNER program (previously known as CANSail 1 & 2) is designed for new or beginner sailors who are just starting their sailing journey. Using the national Sail Canada guidelines, CANSail 1 and 2 provide the foundational building blocks needed to continue on in the CANSail pathway. Renaming the program helps make this clearer and more accessible for families when registering and participating.

Our Beginner program provides an introduction to sailing, starting with the fundamentals required to sail a dinghy and gradually building toward essential skills such as understanding wind direction, speed, and learning to maneuver the boat accordingly.

By combining these two levels under the Beginner banner, sailors progress through essential skills at a comfortable pace and at their own pace. They do this while gaining confidence, learning to handle the boat safely, and developing the core techniques they’ll rely on as they advance through the CANSail program.

There are two different boat/class options at this level: the Optimist or the 420 RAD. 

BEGINNER Opti (CANSail 1 & 2)

This course is geared toward fun and learning! We call this class Beginner Opti because we sail Optimist dinghies, also referred to as "Optis". Optis are a single-handed dinghy. We will teach the basics of rigging an Opti, basic boat handling, sailing fundamentals, seamanship, sportsmanship, and water safety. 

Please note that space in this class always fills up quickly. Register early! 

BEGINNER 420 RAD (CANSail 1 & 2)

Our 420 RAD class is a beginner pathway into double‑handed sailing, where students sail with a partner and learn the fundamentals together. It’s a great boat for sailors aged 8+ who prefer learning with a partner, and it’s our recommended option for older new beginners who are approaching the Opti weight limit. RAD 420s use a smaller mainsail and feature a mast‑top bob to help prevent turtling, offering a stable and confidence‑building platform for new sailors.

Sailors learn rigging, basic boat handling, seamanship skills (knots, weather awareness, and more), and on‑water safety. This course supports new sailors as they progress at a comfortable pace with expert instruction in a collaborative, team‑oriented environment.

This program is offered in two-week sessions. Each session runs Monday to Friday, from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. for both weeks. Here are the session dates for 2026:

Cost for Participants 2026

Bringing your own Opti? Deduct $50 per session.