Wild About Sailing

Wanna go fast?

Here's your chance. Join us for a genuinely extraordinary day-sailing experience. Crew aboard Westerly, a high-performance Melges IC 37, alongside some of Cascadia Sailing's all-women team as they prepare for the 2026 New York Yacht Club's inaugural International Women's Championship.

This isn't for spectators; you'll be part of the action. Under the guidance of team founder Joy Dahlgren, accomplished offshore racer and sailmaker, and team coach Stuart Dahlgren, you'll learn how to make Westerly move swiftly and safely.

• Work hands-on with experienced racing sailors in a practical, on-the-water setting
• Refine your boat handling skills, and practice trimming sails across a range of conditions
• Learn to communicate clearly, and confidently in a racing environment.

Our focus for the day is building your comfort and skills so you feel confident to crew with other teams.

Dave or Annalise will be along for the ride to provide instructional and safety support for this one-day adventure.

Whether you're a cruising sailor looking for a new experience, or someone who's dreaming of racing, this will be the ride of a lifetime.

What you'll experience

This introduction to sail racing is geared to first-timers and follows Sail Canada's Introduction to Boating standard. We'll tailor the day to the experience of the participants aboard, but some introductory-level sailing experience is recommended. You'll learn:

• What it's like to be on a race boat with this elite crew
• To execute crew basic skills, safely and efficiently
• How to perform common racing manuevers with a large crew

Registration: $475 per student

Step 1: Reserve your spot with a $100 deposit

Your deposit covers transaction fees, BC Sailing fees, and liability insurance. Any remainder goes to Cascadia.

Step 2: Confirm your registration making a $375 tax-deductible donation to Cascadia Sailing

Complete your registration with a $375 tax-deductible donation directly to Cascadia Sailing through Wind Athletes Canada (using this link). Your donation will go directly to Cascadia Sailing and help bring their ambitious and inspiring project to life.

Step 3: Send a record of your donation transaction to Annalise at Wild About Sailing

What to bring & where to meet

We meet at Royal Victoria Yacht Club at 8:45 am for introductions, then head to the boat from there. You'll be on the water until 4:00 pm.

• Packed lunch
• Rainproof & windproof pants and jacket
• Layers for warmth (it's cooler on the water than on land)
• Warm hat
• Sailing gloves (let us know if you don't have them, and we'll lend you some)
• Shoes with soft, grippy soles (sneakers work great, low cut sea boots are better)
• Sun protection: well-fitting hat, sunglasses, sunscreen

Minimum registration

Four registrants are required for this event to proceed (so bring a friend!) This course is limited to six students. If we don't meet our minimum enrolment, we'll work with you to find a convenient alternative date.

Please review Wild About Sailing's course booking, refund and cancellation policies before booking.