Junior Programs

Junior Programs

BDYC’s junior sailing programs build confidence and life skills in a safe, family-oriented environment. All instructors are bilingual and offer Sail Canada CANSail Certificate tests at the end of each session. Many of our certified coaches are graduates of the program themselves.

Registration begins February 1 on Checklick. Operating hours: Monday to Friday, 10am to 5pm, including statutory holidays.

Learn to Sail Programs

Opti Learn to Sail

AGES 6–10

Introduction to sailing in Optimist dinghies. Typically 2 children per boat. Mon–Fri, 10am–5pm.

CANSail 1 & 2

AGES 8–18

Beginner to intermediate in Topaz sailboats. 3–4 sailors per boat. Mon–Fri, 10am–5pm.

CANSail 3 & 4

AGES 12+

Advanced techniques: sail trim, trapeze, boat maintenance, boat tuning. Club 420 sailboats, 2 sailors per boat. Mon–Fri, 10am–5pm.

Race Team

For sailors ready to take the next step, our race team programs offer competitive training and the chance to represent BDYC at regattas across Quebec and Ontario. Race team registration requires approval from the Head Instructor.

Opti racing requirements: Sailors must meet minimum size and weight requirements to race Optimist dinghies safely. The Head Instructor will assess readiness during the registration process.

Opti Green Fleet Race Team

YOUNGEST SAILORS

An introduction to racing for our youngest sailors. Builds confidence on the water and teaches the basics of regatta competition in Optimist dinghies.

Opti Race Team

COMPETITIVE

Competitive Optimist racing for experienced young sailors. Focuses on race tactics, starts, mark rounding, and regatta preparation.

420 Race Team

ADVANCED

Advanced racing in the Club 420 class. For experienced sailors ready for double-handed racing, spinnaker work, and higher-level competition.

Regatta Schedule

Our race team competes at regattas throughout the summer season:

  • TRY Regatta – Pointe-Claire, QC
  • Fruitbowl Regatta – Hudson, QC
  • Cork Regatta – Kingston, ON
  • C-Cool Regatta – Deux-Montagnes, QC
  • Fall Cork Regatta – Kingston, ON

Parent Information

  • Parents are responsible for towing boats and trailers to away regattas. Rental fees for trailers may apply.
  • At least one parent must be present during all away events
  • Regatta registration fees are paid directly to the hosting club
  • Coaching fees for overtime at regattas are paid to BDYC

Contact juniorsailing@bdyc.com or headinstructor@bdyc.com for race team information.

Important Information

  • All students must be strong swimmers
  • PFDs must be Transport Canada / Canadian Coast Guard approved and worn at all times near water
  • The club is not peanut-free
  • Cancellation fee: $250
  • Students should bring: hat, splash-top, closed-toe water shoes, sweater, towel, bathing suit, waterproof sunscreen, change of clothes, sunglasses, reusable water bottle, own lunch and snacks
Register on Checklick

Questions? Email juniorsailing@bdyc.com or headinstructor@bdyc.com