Sidney North Saanich Yacht Club      

   "On or by the Sea, the Friendly Place to be"
Since 1981
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About our Sailing School

At the Sidney North Saanich Yacht Club Sailing School, we are dedicated to fostering a lifelong passion for sailing in individuals of all ages and abilities. Nestled in Tsehum Harbour, Sidney, BC, we provide a safe, fun, and comprehensive learning environment for everyone from complete beginners to aspiring racers. Our mission is to build confidence, teach essential skills, and share the joy of being on the water.

Our Programs:

We offer a wide array of programs designed to cater to every stage of a sailor's journey. Please visit our programs page to see our programs and find the best fit for you! 

Our Coaching Philosophy & Team

Our dedicated team of certified instructors and experienced coaches are the heart of our Sailing School. They are passionate about teaching, committed to safety, and bring a wealth of sailing knowledge and enthusiasm to every lesson. Our coaching philosophy emphasizes:

  • Safety First: Ensuring a secure environment for all participants.

  • Hands-On Learning: Maximizing on-water time for practical skill development.

  • Positive Reinforcement: Building confidence and encouraging a love for the sport.

  • Individualized Attention: Adapting instruction to meet the needs and learning styles of each student.

All our instructors are certified through Sail Canada, ensuring the highest standards of instruction and safety.

Our Fleet: 

We maintain a diverse fleet of well-equipped and safe dinghies, perfect for learning and progression:

  • Optimist Dinghies: Ideal for our youngest sailors, providing a stable and forgiving platform for beginners.

  • 420s & FJs: Versatile double-handed dinghies used for CANSail programs and Race Team, perfect for developing teamwork and advanced skills.

  • ILCA (formerly Laser) 6 & 7: Popular single-handed dinghies used for Race Team training, focusing on individual boat handling and speed.

  • Capri Keelboat: Our 'easy to handle' keelboat used for Keelboat Lessons, offering an introduction to sailing larger vessels.

  • Specialized Able Sail Boats: We primarily use Martin 16 and Sonar sailboats, designed for accessibility, ensuring everyone can experience sailing.

The CANSail Program

Our programs are proudly delivered under Sail Canada's CANSail program. CANSail is a national training standard that provides a progressive, competency-based curriculum. This means:

  • Structured Learning: A clear pathway from fundamental skills to advanced techniques.

  • Nationally Recognized Certification: Your achievements are recognized across Canada.

  • Focus on Practical Skills: Emphasizing hands-on experience and active learning on the water.

  • Safe and Fun Environment: Designed to make learning enjoyable and secure.

We invite you to join the SNSYC Sailing School family and embark on your sailing adventure. Whether you dream of cruising, racing, or simply enjoying the tranquility of the water, we're here to help you achieve your goals.


For more information or to register, please visit our Registration Portal or contact our Sailing School Manager at sailingschool@snsyc.ca


Registration Information

Not sure which program is best for you? Click the link below to learn about our available programs!

Programs

Ready to set sail? Register below

Sailing School Registration

*All registration is done online through the link above. Programs and dates will be listed through the link*

Financial Assistance is available for families who need it. Please contact us for details.

Cancellation Policy:

Cancellations 14+ days before the start of a program will receive a full refund, less a $50 administrative fee.

Cancellations 7-14 days before the start of a program will receive a 50% refund, less a $50 administrative fee.

Cancellations 0-7 days before the start of a program will receive no refunds, except in cases of extenuating circumstances, which will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis.

No pro-rated refunds for any elective absences. SNSYC reserves the right to cancel a program for any reason without prior notice. In this case, full refund is given. SNSYC will not be responsible for refunds on airline flights, hotel reservations, or other incidental fees incurred in conjunction with the program.


  • All courses are subject to a minimum enrolment.
  • If placed on a waitlist, interest in enrolment is assumed. Should a vacancy arise, automatic enrolment in the course will take place and the cancellation and enrolment policy takes into effect.
  • The Sidney North Saanich Yacht Club carries a portfolio of general liability insurance policies but does not cover students for personal injury.


For more info contact Brooke Jangula, Sailing School Manager sailingschool@snsyc.ca

Sidney North Saanich Yacht Club is non-profit organization.
PO Box 2521, Sidney, BC V8L 4B9

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