One Simple Mission
Our mission is to inspire, educate, and encourage the next generation of sailors and watersport enthusiasts to peruse their passions while finding the love for life on the water that we all hold so dear. With operating as a not-for-profit organization for over 40 years, we seek to make the process of getting into sailing as exciting and accessible for as many as we possibly can.
Commonly Asked Questions
There are lots of questions that can come up when attending sailing camp for the first time! We understand this and in an effort to help with this, we have compiled a list of our most commonly asked questions with answers to help visitors through the process. Have a question that you don't see the answer to? Please feel free to reach out to us and ask away!
What is the difference between CANSail 1 / 2 and Watersports?
We launched the Watersports program as a week long alternative to the two-week long CANSail 1 program. We recognize that some students and parents are unsure about how much they will enjoy sailing, so we wanted to offer an introduction to water sports more generally. In Watersports, campers will have the opportunity to start developing the skills for CANSail 1 and will also learn the fundamentals of Stand-Up Paddleboarding and Kayaking. If the camper decides they want to continue with the CANSail program, they will have a head-start. The CANSail 1 / 2 course is two-weeks long and is more focused on sailing theory and practical skills on the water. This course is more geared towards meeting the Sail Canada requirements.
Can my child accomplish CANSail 1 and CANSail 2 in the two week period?
Although the course is called CANSail 1 / 2, CANSail 1 is a two week course, and CANSail 2 is a separate two week course. Some campers will achieve one of the levels during the two week period whereas others will need some more time on the water for skill development. Our programs attract a wide range of ages and abilities so there is no single expectation!
Does my child have to be in the designated age range for a particular program?
Sailing ability and skill level does not necessarily relate to a particular age. We recognize that children and youth come to the program with different levels of enthusiasm for learning, sailing ability, and maturity. Therefore, while we encourage parents to register their children for programs in the outlined age categories, we will accommodate the needs of the individual student so that they can have the most meaningful sailing camp experience. Please speak to the coaches who will work with you to select the best program.
What will my child be learning?
The specific programs have an individual focus depending on the age-range and skill level of the program. The Wetfeet and Watersports programs have an emphasis on learning the fundamentals of sailing to get younger campers enthusiastic about the sport, and to simply have a fun time out on the water. This is great preparation for the CANSail Levels. In the CANSail 1 / 2 program, campers begin working on the CANSail level with a focus on sailing theory while maximizing on-the-water practice. In the CANSail 3 / 4 program, the sailors begin to refine their skills and learn the rules and tactics of racing. In the race program (Opti, Laser and 420) sailors participate in a carefully planned training plan where they work closely with their coaches to develop their skills to increase their speed and overall performance. At this level, sailors regularly travel to regattas to compete with other sailors from across the province and country.
Do I need to bring a lunch?
Students should bring a healthy lunch and snacks from Monday - Thursday. The campers are very active during the day, so they build up a healthy appetite. On Fridays we are happy to offer a BBQ lunch or pizza lunch (alternates during the summer) for a low cost!
Does my child need to know how to swim to participate?
It is a sailing school policy that all students near the water such as on the beach, and the water, are required to be wearing a personal flotation device (PFD) at all times. Therefore, we don’t expect the campers to have strong swimming skills. Safety is always our first priority and we are especially diligent around students who are less comfortable around the water as we want to ensure they are comfortable at all times.
Do I need to pack my child a lifejacket?
It is highly recommended that each child comes to camp with their own lifejacket. Lifejackets are most comfortable and effective when they are fitted to the size and weight of the individual and as campers will be wearing them most of the day, it is best if they have on that fits well. In case of circumstances where a camper cannot bring a lifejacket or if they forget theirs at home, we have a few at the sailing school to borrow.
Do you offer extended camp care (outside of the 9am-4pm camp day)?
While in a typical year we offer a before care option extending the day from 7:30 am - 9:00 am and an after care option from 4:00 pm to 5:30 pm, We are unable to offer these options in 2021 due to Covid rules and regulations.
What curriculum do we follow?
All of our instructors are certified through Sail Canada and we follow the Sail Canada CANSail program that provides a framework to enhance sailing skills and overall performance. The emphasis is on lots of time on the water in a safe, fun and active learning environment, with relatively less time spent in a classroom. The goal is to learn by doing.
What is Checklick?
Checklick is an online assessment tool that is accessible by athletes in CANSail 1 / 2 or CANSail 3 / 4 which displays their progress in regards to their level. Every checklist will include a rubric outlining the skills the athlete is working towards. If a sailor needs further development, it simply means they have attempted the skill but are unable to complete the skill at the level required by the level. If a sailor does not achieve their level in a session, they do not need to start back at the beginning. Their progress will be tracked, so they can start where they left off and focus on the areas that need more practice. If the sailor takes courses at another Sail Canada School this information will be available online to their new instructors.
How to login?
Website Link: cansail.checklick.com
Username: Sailorslastnamesailorsfirstname
Example: doejane
Password: A default password will be sent over email, and this can be changed later.
What is my complimentary Whitby Yacht Club social membership?
The WYC recognizes that you have made a significant investment in your Child’s boating education. The members here at the club welcome you, and in that spirit we have decided to offer you a complimentary social membership that will see you through this year and the beginning of next year as well.
What will this membership entitle you to? Well, the use of the club for you, your family and a guest if you choose to bring them. You can use the beach, stroll the docks, use the BBQ’s, and attend all social events. You will be on the email mailing list for weekly news updates about what is going on at the club such as race nights, dinners and family events.
This membership is normally sold for $300 (plus HST), so be sure to take advantage of it!
Our Team
Captain Phill
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Captain Dawn
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