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CANSail 1 & 2
Learn to sail on a small boat (dinghy). The CANSail 1/2 course is the ideal starting point for new sailors or those looking to build confidence on the water. This course is taught in responsive two-person dinghies and follows the national Sail Canada standards. On the water training is emphasized with applicable theory covered in short class sessions before and and after your on water sail. With an experienced Sail Canada instructor as your coach, you will be taught the skills and knowledge required to safely sail a dinghy in moderate wind and sea conditions.
The objective of the CANSail 1 & 2 course is to teach students the basic skills needed to sail a dinghy, including:
Boat parts: Learn the names of the different parts of the boat.
Sailing skills: Learn how to steer, maintain proper body position, and perform basic manoeuvres.
Safety: Learn safety techniques including righting a dinghy after capsizing.
Wind: Learn about wind direction and points of sail.
Rigging: Learn how to rig a sailboat.
PREREQUISITE: None
CERTIFICATION AWARDED: CANSail 1 Standard, CANSail 2 Standard, Pleasure Craft Operator’s Card (requires writing an exam)
Course Options and Fees
Minimum of 28 hours of instruction.
Fees (per person): $460.00 + HST (includes CANSail learning materials & introductory membership at the Nepean Sailing Club if you’ve not previously been a club member)
Evenings: Monday-Thursday, 5:30 – 9:00 PM for two consecutive weeks.
Weekends: First Friday, 6- 9 PM & Saturday & Sunday 9 AM – 5 PM for two consecutive weekends.
There’s no written exam for CANSail 1 or 2. Your certification is based entirely on demonstrating the required on-water skills for each level. Throughout the course, your instructor will guide you, give feedback, and help you build confidence as you progress through both CANSail 1 and 2 (CANSail1 skills; CANSail 2 skills).
In our experience, most adult students (about 75–80%) successfully complete both levels within the 28-30 hour course. That said, everyone learns at a different pace, and that’s totally okay! Our goal is to help you feel comfortable and capable on the water, and we’re here to support you every step of the way.
Discover What Our CANSail 1 & 2 Course Has to Offer!
Get Started, Now!
- Review the course schedule to find a class that suits your needs.
- Register by adding your course choice to your shopping cart and proceeding to the checkout or e-mailing us at info@advantageboating.com.
- Enjoy the on-water course.
- Complete your certification.
- Join the dinghy community at your club and go sailing.
- Next steps once you’ve completed your CANSail 1 and 2 certification –> CANSail 3 or Basic Cruising