Our nationally recognized programs offer sailing instruction for children and teens ages 8 to 18. Whether you’ve never been on a boat or are an experienced racer, the BYC Youth Sailing has a program for you.
Our goal is to give participants a love, appreciation, and respect for sailing and the water. We concentrate on keeping learning fun, while ensuring a safe environment. Participants in our youth programs learn to work as part of a team, gain valuable leadership skills, and increased self-confidence. We have graduated many successful racers and life-long sailors and BYC racers have competed in many national and international events
For more information on our programs and prices, feel free to contact Mark Walton at or 613-828-5167 (Ext. 241).
CAMARADERIE, LEARNING & FUN
Racing Programs
The BYC Race Program currently supports training in the Optimist (Opti) dinghy for youth up to age 15, the Club 420 (C420) dinghy for ages 12 and above, and the Laser dinghy for ages 13 and above. Participants will still be able to work towards their CANSail levels.
The Optimist is the international standard for competitive youth sailing and the largest one-design sailboat fleet in the world. Class rules allow participation in competition until age 15; however, many Opti sailors “size out” before then.
The Club 420 is a double handed (two person) dinghy with a fleet of over 5000 boats in North America, and is sailed extensively in local, high school and collegiate programs. Rigged with a trapeze, and spinnaker, the C420 offers a unique sailing experience that encourages teamwork, and sets it apart from a single-handed boat.
The Laser is an Olympic class sailboat and one of the most popular sailboat classes in the world. Lasers are able to be rigged for varying weights of sailors allowing for a broad range of competitive fleets as well as the ability for sailors to “grow” with the boat.
Significant travel for competition requiring parent support, and additional costs, should be expected, however, the degree of travel and regatta participation can vary depending on the sailors’ age and abilities.
The Colin Blandy Fund was established in 1977 by members of the Britannia Yacht Club to provide financial assistance to young BYC members who are committed to a competitive sailing program with Olympic aspirations.
CANSail - Youth Sailing Program
If you have never sailed before or if you want to improve your sailing skills, these courses will develop your confidence and ability. Classes are kept small and stress a practical approach to training with fun atmosphere and as much on-the-water practice as possible. Read more to learn about our CANSail program in Ottawa.
