History of
Sailing on
Alta Lake
A century of wind and water
Before Whistler became a ski mecca, Alta Lake was the heart of summer adventure. In 1914, Myrtle and Alex Philip purchased 10 acres on the lake’s west side and founded Rainbow Lodge. Boating, fishing, and hiking were the core attractions—and yes, even back then, sailing was in the mix. You can see Alex Philip sailing in a 1935 video, gliding through waters right where Whistler Sailing Association stands today.
Why Alta Lake?
The southerly thermal winds and breathtaking mountain backdrop make Alta Lake an ideal venue for wind-powered sports. It offers consistent afternoon breezes and safe, freshwater conditions—perfect for beginners and pros alike.
The Alta Lake Sailing Club (1966)
On May 1, 1966, the Alta Lake Sailing Club (ALSC) was formed, bringing together enthusiasts to enjoy the lake’s prevailing southerly winds. Operating out of Cypress Lodge, the club hosted events like the Jelly Fish Races and the annual “Regretta,” a playful nod to the end-of-summer blues. The club’s charter emphasized camaraderie over competition – a spirit that WSA continues to uphold today.
Alta Lake Sailing Charter
“Let it be known to all that on the first day of May, 1966 the Alta Lake Sailing Club was formed to bring together all those who would enjoy the prevailing southerly on Nature’s Jewel in the shadows of the great giants. Only a happy heart may sail in our Ranks—This being the foremost requirement. Competition shall be second to friendship brought about by a common bond. Club commodore will be elected each September and will appoint able assistants and plan the activities of the following season. A master log of all activities shall be maintained and be passed on to his or her successor.”
The Windsurfing Wave: 1975–1990s
Windsurfing caught wind in Whistler in the late 1970s, turning Alta Lake into a summer hotspot for board enthusiasts. The first windsurf board was introduced to the lake by Mark Dufus in 1975, and from there, it was full sail ahead.
By 1981, the sport was booming. Two local businesses, Whistler Windsurfing and Blackcombe Sports, offered rentals, lessons, and even club memberships through the Blackcombe Boardsailing Club. The lake buzzed with activity – from weekly races in the Whistler Windsurfing Summer Series to major events like the BC Windsurfing Championships. Whistler’s shores saw more than just local competitors. Jinny Ladner and Andrew Stoner, both community mainstays, earned spots at the 1981 Windsurf World Championships in Okinawa. The Whistler Fall Festival’s “Great Waters Race” even featured windsurfing as one leg of a team relay-though sometimes the wind didn’t show up and paddles had to.
Though windsurfing waned in the late 1990s, it left a lasting legacy of adventure and innovation on Alta Lake—one that’s now being reborn with wing foiling.
The Rise of Whistler Sailing Association
(2008–Present)
In 2008, a passionate group of Whistler locals founded the Whistler Sailing Association (WSA) to reconnect the community with its natural playground—Alta Lake. What started as a grassroots effort soon grew into a certified sailing school nestled at Cypress Lodge, now shared with The Point Artist-Run Centre. With a mission to make sailing accessible to all, WSA offers programs for every level and age—from first-timers to seasoned racers.
WSA was incredibly lucky to cross paths with Dave Patterson from the RMOW. Dave, a windsports enthusiast, shared the vision of the club and helped move WSA to its present site—one which offers excellent launching and natural harbour protection from the wind.
The founding board was led by President Patrick McCurdy, whose vision and drive helped lay the groundwork for the organization’s early success. In 2011, Francois Hebert joined as Head Coach, bringing a dynamic mix of coaching expertise, community energy, and program-building momentum that helped WSA solidify its reputation as a premier sailing hub.
Key Milestones in WSA History
- 2008: Whistler Sailing Association founded as a nonprofit
- 2007-2010: Mobile Optimist Sailing School comes to Whistler
- 2011: Establishing of Sailing School in its current form
- 2011: Hosted the first Tasar Class Regional Regatta
- 2012: Hosted the BC Optimist Championships
- 2013: First Annual BC Circuit Regatta
- 2013: WSA acquires Fleet of Pirates
- 2015: New dock system built
- 2017: Over 1000 participants come through the door
- 2020: Sailing is somewhat Covid proof – summer camps still take place
- 2023: WSA Race Team created
- 2024: Introduced wing foiling lessons
Be Part of the Legacy
Whether you want to learn to tack, foil, or race, Whistler Sailing Association welcomes you aboard. Come sail with us and ride the wind like those who’ve loved this lake for over a century.
Looking Ahead
The future at Whistler Sailing Association is powered by wind, community, and bold ideas. As we continue expanding our programs, we’re not just teaching skills; we’re shaping the next generation of lake stewards and water lovers. Our vision includes growing our fleet, enhancing our lakeside facilities, and deepening our role as a hub for outdoor education in Whistler. Whether you’re six or sixty, a first-time sailor or a seasoned racer, WSA is charting a course where everyone has a place on the water.
Learn more about Whistler Sailing
