"opportunity, accessibility, independence"

CYA Learn to Sail!

Learn to Sail Courses and Training Camps

Our Learn-To-Sail program provides our members with the skill and confidence to sail independently. Course materials and Instructors are certified by the Canadian Yachting Association.

On completion of CYA White Sail II, you will be able to carry out basic sailing skills in wind strengths of 8-16 km/h (4-9 knots).

On completion of White Sail III, you will be able to sail with confidence, competently and safely in wind strengths of 8-16 km/h (4-9 knots). White Sail III certification is required to sail solo or if you wish to take a passenger for a sail in our Martin-16 sailboats, or receive certification to helm the Sonar.

On completion of Bronze Level IV, you will understand and apply the basic principles of sail trim and boat handling for optimal performance. Without instructor direction, he/she will be able to perform on water skills in wind speeds of 15-25 km/hr (9-14 knots).

2012 Learn-to-Sail Courses

Courses Details Dates Days & Times
Whitesail I / II WS I/WS II June 5 .. 28 Tuesday & Thursday evenings: 18:00 - 21:00
Whitesail III WS III July 3 .. 26 Tuesday & Thursday evenings: 18:00 - 21:00
Bronze IV Bronze IV TBD TBD
Race Camp TBD TBD TBD
Sonar - Skills & Drills TBD TBD (For Volunteer Sailing Companions only.)

Further lessons will be scheduled as required. Anyone wishing to take lessons should:

2012 Learn-To-Sail Fee Schedule

Item Cost
DSA-Alberta Membership $40.00 - valid for the season
White Sail I & II $190.00 + CYA Manual
White Sail III $190.00 + CYA Manual
Bronze IV $190.00 + CYA Manual
Race Camp $269 - must have successfully completed WS III
Sonar - Skills & Drills No Charge for active Sailing Companions
CYA Manual I: Basic Sailing Skills $21.00
CYA Manual II: Advanced Sailing Skills $21.00

Learn-to-Sail Camps

In past years, DSA-Alberta hosted four-day intensive Learn-to-Sail Camps in various locations in Alberta. The Camp format offers sailors a vacation-style sailing course, with a focused Learn-to-Sail program combined with group meals and socializing. These Camps are open to anyone in Alberta. Financial assistance is available for travel and accommodation through a grant provided by the Alberta Paraplegic Foundation.