CYA is short for Canadian Yachting Association., which is the governing body that organizes the sport of sailing in Canada. It encompasses the provincial sailing organizations and the 300 plus sailing clubs throughout the country. Part of its mandate is to set and maintain national standards for sail training. This it achieves through its Learn to Sail program for small dinghy sailing, and its Learn to Cruise program for large keelboats. Blackfish Sailing Adventures is focused on the Learn to Cruise Program; teaching how to operate and live aboard cruising sailboats.

What use is certification ?

Certification gives you the skills and the confidence to sail by yourself or to crew with others. The courses will not only give you an overview of what sailing is all about and how much there is to learn, but upon gaining certification, demonstrate to others, (such as the bare boat charter companies) that you can be trusted with their vessels and the lives of their crew.

What kind of sailboat do we use?

We use a Beneteau 351 "Oceanus" , a modern cruising boat, featuring wheel steering and self furling jib and in-mast furling main. She also has the full range of electronics, including radar and auto helm and windlass. Being much larger and comfortable, Ibis is a delight to use on our overnight sail training courses. . Click here to see a fuller description of our Beneteau sloop

What is a typical sail training day like?

Our day begins with an early breakfast, about 7;30. This leisurely meal allows us to discuss our objectives and plans for the day. A weather and check of tides and winds follows to help us determine our course, destination and sail tactics for the day (with a contingency plan should conditions change). Everyone is given a role, a role that changes daily, so that everyone gets a “hands -on” experience as Skipper, as Crew, and as Navigator. A protected cove is usually selected for our lunch break. This gives us more experience at anchoring and also a chance to go ashore to stretch our legs and do some exploring. We then continue with sailing, giving everyone a chance to practice their skills. We aim to anchor or tie up at a dock by no later than 6 p.m. This gives us a chance to discuss our day’s activities and to relax (we usually bring along a kayak/inflatable and fishing/crabbing equipment). Everyone is expected to assist the Skipper with the domestic duties of cooking, clean up, and equipment maintenance. We do not sail at night.
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What should I bring?

Bring along good non-skid footwear (non marking), personal gear and toiletries, wet weather gear (if you have them, advise if not), sun hat, shorts & sunglasses, change of clothing, swimsuit, and of course, a camera. A variety of layered clothing is best as conditions can be expected to change daily if not hourly. Passengers may bring alcoholic beverages for consumption on the evening when we are anchored. Musical instruments and singing voices are encouraged. if you have a favoured book, game or CD bring it along also. It is important to mark things with your initials so that might be not be confused with other persons’ belongings.

Where do we sleep?

Our overnight sail training vessel (Beneteau 351) features two separate cabins (one fore and one aft), each sleeping 2 persons comfortably and with privacy. In addition, there is a settee in the salon (middle of boat) which makes into a double bed. There is a single berth in the salon (across from the settee) that can be made up for a small person if needed.

What about showers and toilets?

Our Beneteau is equipped with one head (marine toilet), and two showers; including one located on the swim grid. The boat also features hot and cold water under pressure. For those who like lots of water, and a change of "scene", we usually stop enroute at marinas and resorts that feature all the comforts, including swimming pools and saunasl. Poets Cove on Pender Island is one of our favourite stopovers in the Gulf islands (convenient to Victoria and Sidney).

Will I get seasick?

Probably not. In the many years we have been sailing and kayaking the waters around Victoria and the Gulf Islands (having taken many hundreds of people on these trips), we have experienced only two cases of sea sicknesses. The reason; the waters we will be travelling are well protected by many islands, and there is little in the way of swells such as those commonly experienced on the West Coast of Vancouver Island (swells are the chief cause of sea sickness). Nevertheless, for those of you who are susceptible to sea sickness, or don't want to take a chance, we can prescribe some “across the counter” medicines you may want to take along.

Where can I get more information?

Our website contains most everything you should know about our operation and our courses. Our Links page contains additional information on Vancouver Island, such as getting here, places to stay, etc. For a personal touch, call us any evening and we would be glad to answer any further questions you may have.

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EMail Us or Tel: (250) 216-2389
Blackfish Sailing Adventures, Victoria, BC. Canada

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