Private Sailing Lessons in Vancouver, BC at Kitsilano Yacht Club

The CANSail Program is Sail Canada’s national learn-to-sail program, designed to introduce sailors of all ages to the sport in a safe, supportive, and engaging environment. Taught by trained and certified instructors, the CANSail curriculum is recognized across Canada and is recognized by World Sailing.

CANSail focuses on developing real, hands-on sailing skills through active learning and lots of time on the water. Programs progressively introduce and develop the fundamental skills in a safe, fun, and active learning environment with lots of time spent on the water. CANSail programs are tailored to different individual’s age and stage of development – while fundamental skills are consistent, how they’re delivered changes to meet participants where they’re at.

CANSail programs are offered by certified sailing schools and clubs across Canada, including KYC, with the goal of building strong foundational skills and fostering a lifelong love of sailing. Whether you’re stepping into a sailboat for the first time or progressing toward advanced sailing techniques, the CANSail pathway provides a clear and nationally recognized progression system.

KYC has been a fixture on Vancouver’s waterfront since 1934. We believe sailing should be something anyone can experience, and our program pricing still reflects the community-focused vision the club was founded on.

We work hard to keep sailing accessible. Unlike many other local programs, KYC is a community-based, non-profit sailing club focused on getting more people out on the water and building community around the sport we love, not maximizing profit. Our courses are taught by Sail Canada-certified instructors in small groups, with a strong emphasis on quality instruction, safety, and fun. Because we operate within a volunteer-driven club community and make use of shared club resources, we’re able to offer our programs, including nationally recognized CANSail courses, at a more affordable price point than many other organizations in the area.

No membership required. Our learn to sail courses are open to the public, and you don’t need to own a boat to get started.. If you enjoy your time on the water (and we think you will!), we're happy to chat about membership options, the co-op fleet, and racing opportunities—but there’s absolutely no obligation.

The Kitsilano Yacht Club is located right on the Kitsilano waterfront and is accessible via a short walking path at 2401 Point Grey Road, just steps away from Kits Beach and the Kitsilano Pool.

Please Note: There is no on-site parking or vehicle access for students/families at the club. Street parking is available nearby, but please do not drive down directly to the club. Help us be good neighbours by respecting all posted parking signs and being mindful of local residents.

If you will be late, absent, or needs to leave early, please let us know as soon as possible

• 14+ Days Cancellation:

100% refund of the registration cost, less an $75 administrative fee and any applicable transaction platform processing fees, if a cancellation is received at least 14 days prior to the start of the class.

• 8–14 Days Cancellation:

For cancellations received between 8 and 14 days before the class starts, you will receive a refund equal to 50% of the registration cost, less any transaction platform processing fees. However, if 50% of the registration cost would result in KYC retaining less than $75 as an administrative fee, the refund will be adjusted so that KYC retains a minimum of $75.

• Late Cancellations:

No refund will be given for cancellations received 7 days or less prior to the start of the class, or once classes have begun, unless extenuating circumstances warrant an exception. Each case will be evaluated individually.

• Elective Absences:

No pro-rated refunds or partial pricing options are available for any elective absences.

• Exceptions for Illness or Injury:

Exceptions for illness or injury may be granted at the discretion of the Program Director, with supporting documentation. If granted, the refund amount will be determined by the Program Director, taking into account the timing of the cancellation and other relevant factors.

• Course Cancellation by KYC:

In the event that a course is cancelled by KYC due to insufficient enrolment or other unforeseen or operational circumstances, KYC will notify you as early as possible and offer either a full refund, course credit, or the option to transfer to another KYC course. No administrative fee will be charged when a course is cancelled by KYC.

• Discount Eligibility:

Eligible discounts must be applied at the time of purchase. No reimbursements or partial refunds will be provided for discounts that were not utilized.

• Policy Updates:

This policy is subject to change. Any revisions will apply only to purchases made after the effective revision date. Please refer to your purchase receipt for the refund policy applicable to your transaction.

What to Wear

Plan to be comfortable, warm, and ready to get a little wet. Even in the spring and summertime, the water off of Kitsilano can sometimes be cold, so dressing in layers is key. We recommend:

- Quick-dry layers (please avoid cotton)

- A warm fleece or sweater and a waterproof shell

- Shorts or light pants you can move in easily

- Closed-toe, tight fitting shoes that can get wet and won’t slip — no flip flops, slides, or crocs, please. (mandatory; required for safety) 

What to Bring:

Plan to be sun-safe, hydrated, and ready for changing conditions on the water. We recommend:

- Sunscreen

- Refillable water bottle 

- Change of dry clothes

- Towel

- Hat and sunglasses (if sunny) 

Safety is the foundation of everything we do at KYC. Our instructors: 

- Lead on-water activities from motorized safety boats—meaning they are always nearby. 

- Regularly review safety procedures with participants. 

- Adapt activities to suit weather and skill levels — some days this can mean less on-water time, and more time spent on shore learning about the technical side of sailing, and other sailing skills and knowledge. Our priority is always the safety of our participants and staff. 

- All participants are required to wear Transport Canada–approved lifejackets when on or near the water. KYC provides lifejackets (PFDs), or students may bring their own if it is suitable. Closed-toe shoes must be worn at all times during course hours.

No boat needed or specialized gear required. Our courses are taught in club-owned boats. We also supply approved lifejackets/PFDs and safety equipment.

Safety comes first. Our courses run rain or shine, unless weather conditions are highly inclement; in which case we may elect to cancel or reschedule a session. Our instructors monitor conditions closely and follow Sail Canada and KYC safety guidelines.

If it’s too windy, too little wind, or conditions are otherwise unsafe, we may adjust the lesson plan to:

• Spend more time on shore-based learning (rules of the road, knots, tactics, weather)
• Shorten or reschedule on-water sessions if necessary

Some evenings will be more “theory heavy” and others more “hands-on”. If a course session must be cancelled or rescheduled, we will reach out to all participants as soon as possible.