The BIYC Mission is to grow our community of Bowen Island Sailors. We hope our programs, both new and old, will entice you and your family.
You know those sunny summer days, when all the gripes about ferry overloads and price hikes melt away, and we feel nothing but totally blessed to live on an island? Well, those summer days get even better when your kids – or even you yourself – are out on the shining waters of Tunstall Bay, learning to sail. Our friendly and family-oriented club has been offering classes for 24 years and that core focus continues in 2015, but with exciting new classes on the schedule.
Besides the sheer joy of being out on the water, sailing builds great character traits. Watching a seven-year-old set off bravely in a little boat is a terrific sight. As one of the coaches says: “Sailing teaches you to rely on yourself and on others. The confidence boost you see in kids from that are amazing. Also it’s a great way for kids to connect and learn to care for the ocean.”
It is with pride that we have personally experienced the value of sailing through our own children and others. Not only do they acquire these valuable skills, some go on to become volunteers and instructors offering them the volunteer requirements needed for high school graduation and summer employment. The youth on Bowen are our ambassadors, grounded and rich in community.
Information on all BIYC L2S programs can be found at: www.bowenislandyachtclub.com
New This Summer!
Sail Away is a weeklong program that features sailing games and adventures in a variety of sailboat types for ages 8 and up. Kids up to 16 years old can participate if they’ve completed CANSail 1 or Wetfeet 2. Sailors will be grouped according to age and abilities. There will be a special session for teen’s age 12 to 16. Sail Away is a for fun no-certification program.
The BIYC Fun Regatta will happen on the last Sunday of the month in July and August. Kids of all ages who have some basic racing experience can improve their skills and enjoy some friendly competition.
Sailing Sundays is for adults and kids 16 and older. Sundays 12:00 – 4:00 pm. Come and get out on the water and either learn to sail or get instruction to improve your skills. Sailors are paired up in Laser 2 sailboats
Opti Learn to Race is open to anyone over age 8. Sundays 12:00 – 4:00 pm. Sailors will learn racing skills and techniques. Must be comfortable sailing an Opti on your own.
Private sailings lessons and programs are also an option. Get in touch and we are happy to put together a personalized program for singles or a group.
Program Costs Benefits:
- Fees are kept as low as possible
- No time spent on ferries or fares
- No costly gear or uniforms – a life jacket is the only requirement
- Early Bird discount of $25.00 if you sign up before May 1
- Registration includes the annual membership to BIYC
- Take part in the annual Commodore’s Cup at RVYC with lowest team costs
- A bursary is available with the support of First Credit Union
.png;w=120;h=80;mode=crop)