Private Instruction on Your Boat

Have you just purchased your first boat and want private instruction?  Have you moved to a larger boat?  Are you switching from sail to power or vice versa?  Do you have new navigation electronics onboard and you want some private instruction on how to operate your electronics?

We can help!  If you need some pointers in docking or undocking - we can assist.  If your boat is a single engine, inboard or outboard or twin engines we can show you the ropes (Pun intended!).  We have experience on motor boats from 8' dinghies to 86' yachts as well as sailing boats up to 56'.

For the new boater we usually start with a pre-departure check to ensure the boat is properly equipped to make a safe passage.  We will check all the Transport Canada required safety equipment and give you suggestions on what needs to be replaced or upgraded and recommendations on where to purchase or have the equipment serviced.  You will be shown how to use the safety equipment and where possible, have an opportunity to practise using this equipment. 

You will be shown all the checks to perform on your engine(s) and mechanical systems before getting underway. 

Docking and undocking is usually the next step followed by anchoring, mooring and Man overboard drills.  You will be taught the correct operation of all the electronics such as VHF radio, radar, GPS, chart plotters, depth sounder and auto-pilot. 

If required, you will be shown the procedures for operating all the domestic systems such as shore-power, galley equipment, all electrical systems and sanitation systems. 

For boat owners new to the area we also conduct familiarization cruises where you have the opportunity to use all your boat's navigation equipment while cruising in the Gulf Islands.  If you require training in navigation we can provide you with our home-study Coastal Navigation course.  We strongly encourage families to take the instruction together.

Fees:
CYA Powerboat Skills Manual                         $39
CYA Basic Cruising Skills Manual                   $39
CYA Logbook                                                     $20 for each student
Registration fee - Basic Powerboat              $13 per person
                             - All other standards          $10 per person
Pleasure Craft Operator exam                      $35 per person
VHF Radio Operator course                           $85 Add $60 for a second person
Instructor                                                          $400/day or $60/hour
All above rates are subject to 5% GST.

Any of the Canadian Yachting Association Standards, Power or Sail, may be taught aboard your own boat.