Search Results

Meet the passionate team behind Whistler Sailing. From certified instructors to dedicated volunteers, discover the people who bring sailing to life on Alta Lake. Meet our team Behind every great tack and gybe is a great team - meet the faces that make it all happen! FrancoisHebert Francois Hebert General Manager Francois Roy Hebert is the General Manager of the Whistler Sailing Association and a nationally certified Level 3 NCCP coach with over 25 years of experience in outdoor leadership. At the helm of WSA since 2011, Francois has grown the organization into a dynamic sailing hub that welcomes more than 1,700 student-days each summer. He oversees program development, coach training, and community engagement while also leading the charge on innovative offerings like Wing Foiling instruction. Francois holds Sail Canada’s Competition Development (formerly “Orange”) Race Coach certification and is a recognized Sail Canada Instructor Evaluator. He plays a key role in mentoring the next generation of coaches, with a focus on performance, safety, and fun on the water. His leadership style is grounded in calm, confident decision-making—whether managing a busy sailing school, running instructor clinics, or coaching athletes in challenging conditions. With a strong background in both ski and sailing disciplines, Francois currently serves as a Training Supervisor at the Whistler Blackcomb Snow School, supporting a team of over 1,500 instructors. He holds CSIA Level 4 Instructor and CSCF Level 3 Coach certifications, and has logged over 200 days heli-ski guiding. This extensive experience in high-performance coaching and operational leadership brings added depth to his work on the water. Known for his steady presence and technical expertise, Francois is committed to helping sailors of all ages build skills, confidence, and a lasting connection to the sport. He was recognized for his leadership in risk management by the Canada West Ski Areas Association (CWSAA) Safety Mogul Award in 2022, honoring his significant contribution to the safety culture at Whistler Blackcomb. Under his direction, Whistler Sailing Association also became one of the first sailing schools in Canada to implement mandatory helmet use for everyone 18 & under, setting a new standard for safety in the sport. Francois is also a highly competitive Laser sailor. He won the ILCA 6 (Laser Radial) Provincial Championship in Squamish in 2018, and more recently captured the title at the 2023 ILCA 7 (Laser Standard) U.S. Masters National Championship in San Francisco. Leadership Team At the helm of Whistler Sailing is a committed leadership team charting the course for community connection, youth development, and a love of life on the water. General Manager Francois Hebert A lifelong sailor with a steady hand at the helm, François keeps Whistler Sailing on course and full speed ahead. Head Coach Learn to Sail Programs & Race Team James Cannon Second in command on and off the water, our Head Coach steers the team with skill, heart, and a sharp eye for wind shifts. The Digital Helm Jill Wynott From website to communications, Jill keeps Whistler Sailing’s digital sails trimmed and on course. Senior Sailing Instructor Jeff Baird A steady presence on and off the water, Jeff leads with experience, empathy, and a talent for bringing out the best in both sailors and staff. Sailing Instructors From fine-tuning techniques to chasing perfect wind, these are the faces who shape our sailors and lead the charge on the water. Senior Sailing Instructor Conor Warner Our Pirate Guru, Conor brings energy, expertise, and a love of the lake to every lesson - always ready with a laugh and perfect sail trim. Sailing Instructor Lira Ilyasova With vibrant energy and a creative spirit, Lira keeps the team smiling and the sails flying - always ready with a joke and a splash of colour. Sailing Instructor Charlotte Spencer After instructing in Halifax and Kingston, two of the country’s premier sailing hubs, Charlotte brings valuable experience and fresh energy to the WSA program this season. Sailing Instructor Andreas Radtke With a steady hand on the sheet and an eye on the horizon, Andreas is always ready to trim, tack, and take on whatever the wind brings. Sailing Instructor Zoe Williams With a steady hand and a creative spark, Zoe brings quiet confidence to every boat, always adding her own artistic touch to the fleet. Sailing Instructor Pippa Warner Whether scaling cliffs or steering boats, Pippa stands out. Ranked in the top 20 nationally in competitive climbing, she brings that same balance and focus to the helm - composed, capable, and always ready to lead with heart. Sailing Instructor Levi Rothdram Levi has been sailing Alta Lake since his WetFeet days - a true homegrown sailor with a lifelong love of the wind, the water, and the WSA way. Patient, playful, and always stoked to be on the water, Levi brings joy and calm to every boat he hops in. Sailing Instructor Anais Staniforth Raised in a family of sailors, Anais has wind in her sails and a lifelong love for the water - bringing natural rhythm and ease to every day on the lake. Sailing Instructor Ruby Gee Joining us from Eagle Harbor Yacht Club, Ruby brings a love for sailing and water. Always ready to hoist the sails and make the most of every breeze, she’s excited to share her passion on Alta Lake. Sailing Instructor Devan Radtke Devan grew up through the WSA Race Team and now brings that same stoke and energy to his new role as an instructor. A dedicated Optimist and Laser sailor he’s logged countless hours on the water with friends and family, building skills, confidence, and a true love for the sport. Sailing Instructor Phil Hargreaves Full of curiosity and stoke, Phil is a true WSA original. Whether he’s sailing or diving into his new passion for Wing Foiling, he brings questions, enthusiasm, and boundless energy to every day on the lake. Chief Morale Officer Indy With a wagging tail and a nose for adventure, Indy is our newest recruit - ready to help the team as an assistant coach and keep spirits high on and off the dock. The Wing Crew Meet the crew riding the cutting edge - our wing foil instructors bring stoke, skill, and safety to every session on the water. Lead Wing Instructor Founder of the Wing School Francois Hebert As the leader of our wing foil team, François brings expertise, steady guidance, and a passion for sharing the thrill of flight over water. Wing Instructor Patrick Tunnicliffe Patrick pairs incredible foiling skill with a deep love for community, always bringing riders together and lifting the stoke on and off the water. Wing Instructor Sandra Bicego A true wind sports enthusiast, Sandra brings unstoppable passion and infectious stoke whenever she’s not off chasing wind across the globe. Wing Instructor James Cannon A multi-talented sailor and winger, James brings versatility, skill, and a calm confidence to every session on the water. Wing Instructor Egon Odras A multi-talented wing foiler and pump foiler, Egon brings unmistakable style to every session - powered by incredible athleticism and a firm belief in fast-looking sunglasses. Wing Instructor Simon Beller A lifelong local and wind sports natural, Simon grew up carving lines across Alta Lake - bringing deep roots, local knowledge, and laid-back stoke to every session. Wing Instructor Marc Alfaro Patient, calm, and endlessly supportive, Marc brings a steady presence to every wing lesson - sharing his passion for wind and motion. Guiding the Vision Made up of passionate volunteers and seasoned sailors, our Board of Directors helps steer Whistler Sailing through calm waters and strong gusts alike - always with heart and direction. Commodore & President Patrick McCurdy As Commodore, Patrick is the steady heart behind Whistler Sailing, offering guidance, vision, and unwavering dedication to the community. Planning & Facilities Mick Gannon Mick brings vision and expertise to every project, playing a key role in shaping and improving the facilities that support Whistler Sailing. Regattas & Events Maria Cannon Maria is the driving force behind our most memorable events, bringing organization, energy, and a love for community to everything she does. Treasurer & Secretary David Stein As Treasurer and Secretary, David keeps our finances shipshape and our records in order - the quiet anchor behind the scenes. Memberships, Race & Adult Recruitment David Ellis David champions our membership, racing, and adult programs - always working to grow the fleet and welcome more sailors to the community. Fundraising Megan Risk Megan plays a vital role in our fundraising efforts, helping to secure the support that keeps Whistler Sailing thriving and growing. Director at Large Alex Nichols An avid wing foiler and passionate advocate for innovation on the water, Alex brought his vision to life by inspiring the creation of Whistler Sailing’s wing program. PatrickMcCurdy

Experience the thrill of sailing at the annual Whistler Regatta. Check out the exciting results archive and join us at 5678 Alta Lake Road, Whistler, BC. Whistler Regatta & BC Optimist Championships The Annual Whistler Regatta returns to Alta Lake on July 18–19, 2026, and will proudly host the BC Optimist Championships as part of the event. Sailors from across the province will come together for an exciting weekend of racing on Alta Lake. We look forward to seeing you on the water this summer! Register Now 2026 Whistler Regatta 2026 Notice Of Race - Coming Soon 2026 SI's - Coming Soon! Results Archive 2025 Results 2024 Results 2023 Results 2022 Results 2021 Results Thank you to our event sponsors

Whistler Sailing is a local non-profit association formed by a group of passionate sailors. We are a fully accredited sailing school offering learn to sail programs and kids and youth summer camps to our community. Welcome to Whistler Sailing Book your 2024 program 2026 Programs Now Available! Book now Featured from the clubhouse 2026 Programs Now Available With programs for all ages and skill levels, we’re excited to welcome sailors back on Alta Lake. Looking for the best job in Whistler? Whistler Sailing is hiring summer sailing coaches. Learn more here. 2026 Youth Wing Foil Camps Two weeks scheduled to choose from. Kids & Youth Sailing Camps Learn to sail to advanced racing tactics. About Whistler Sailing The Whistler Sailing Association is a nonprofit organization composed of recreational dinghy sailing enthusiasts. WSA is a fully accredited sailing school which teaches the Sail Canada curriculum. Learn More What we do Kids & Youth Camps Private Lessons Memberships Boat Charters Wing Foiling Whether you are just starting your sailing journey or a seasoned sailor, Whistler Sailing is here to help you meet your goals. The Latest News 2026 Summer Sailing Programs Now Open for Registration We hope you had a wonderful holiday season and a great start to the new year! With all this snow on the ground, it may be hard to picture sunny days on Alta Lake—but we’re already looking ahead to summer. ⛵❄️➡️☀️ Our 2026 sailing programs are now live and available to book. From youth learn-to-sail camps to advanced racing and adult programming, we’re excited to welcome sailors of all ages and experience levels back on the water. Spaces fill up quickly each year, so we encour ⛵ Whistler Regatta to host the 2026 BC Optimist Championships We’re excited to share that the 2026 Whistler Regatta will also serve as the BC Optimist Championships this year. Hosting the provincial Optimist fleet on Alta Lake is a special opportunity, and we’re thrilled to welcome young sailors from across British Columbia to Whistler. Please note that the Whistler Regatta will take place earlier than usual this year, running on July 18–19, 2026. The earlier date allows us to accommodate the BC Optimist Championships. More details abo Wrapping up a windy summer on Alta Lake ⛵ A huge thank you to everyone who came out for our 2025 Haul Out and Annual General Meeting this past weekend! It was amazing to see so... Subscribe Our Initiatives Whistler Sailing is currently involved in numerous projects. Learn more about our initiatives and ways to get involved. Our Projects Our Sponsors Thank you for your continued support. Meet our Sponsors Donate

Discover the perfect sailing program for your kids & youth at our Whistler location. Summer Whistler camps available for all ages. From Optimist to Laser, we offer a range of exciting summer sailing camp options for ages 5 - 13. Kids & Youth Sailing Programs From learn to sail programs to performance racing curriculums, there is something for everyone. Book Your Sailing Program Now Important Information New to sailing camp? Please review the below information prior to making your booking. Program descriptions can be found below Sailing Camps run from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m Camps run Monday - Friday or 2DS (2 days of sailing per week) Review the cancellation policy Prepare for your sailing program View our 2026 master schedule to help with your planning. 5 day sailing camps Weekly Summer Camps Weekly 5 day summer camps, Monday to Friday, 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Ideal for kids who are interested in progressing in the sport of sailing. 2DS Sailing Camps 2DS Program 2 Days of Sailing per week. Ideal for local kids who take part in summer long 2-day per week bike camps. Learn the basics of sailing from our team of certified instructors. Optimist Ideal for kids under 115lbs or 53Kg and shorter than 5'6 or 168cm. Pirate Ideal for youth over 115lbs or 53Kg and taller than 5'6 or 168cm. Laser High-performance dinghy that is more physically demanding. Participants should weigh a minimum 120lbs or 55kg and be in good physical condition. Which boat is right for you? Optimist Sailing Camps Wetfeet Learn to sail for ages 5-7 Wetfeet Checklist The Wetfeet program is aimed at young children who want to learn about sailing and water safety. The goal of this program is to get children comfortable around boats and on the water and prepare them for the Optimist 1 program. Although participants will learn basic sailing skills, participants are not expected to be able to sail on their own at the completion of this course. They will usually sail accompanied by an instructor or volunteer. The curriculum includes exploring Alta Lake and its surrounding parks. On any given day, half of the day will be focused on water activities, and the other half will involve water games, Opti-tow adventures with focus on learning steering and balance, excursions in one of our inflatable safety boats and arts and crafts with a marine focus on boat parts and water safety. Opti 1 Learn to sail for ages 8-12 CANSail 1 Checklist The Optimist 1 course is designed for beginner sailors that have never sailed before. Certified Sail Canada instructors will teach participants basic sailing skills in a fun and safe environment. The course covers water safety, rigging, knots, seamanship and basic sailing maneuvers. Participants practice teamwork and leadership skills as they learn to skipper and crew the boat.Participants may obtain Sail Canada certification (CANSail 1) if all skills are demonstrated during the course and the CANSail 1 checklist is completed. Please note it may take longer then one week to complete the checklist.Ratio: 6 participants to 1 instructor. Opti 2 Intermediate sailing for ages 8-12 Prerequisite: Optimist 1 CANSail 2 Checklist This Optimist 2 program is a more advanced course fo r those who have completed the Optimist 1 curriculum. The emphasis is on developing boat handling skills, independence and safety. Once completed, students should be able to sail their own boat with confidence. Participants may obtain CANSail 2 certification if all skills are demonstrated during the course.Ratio: 6 participants to 1 instructor. Opti 3 Intermediate sailing for ages 8-13 Prerequisite: Optimist 2 CANSail 3 Checklist The Optimist 3 program is a more advanced course for those who have completed the Optimist 2 curriculum. The emphasis is on more advanced skills with focus on sailing faster and more efficiently. The rules of the water, safety and basic racing skills and strategies are part of this course. This course will follow the CANSail 3 curriculum.Participants may obtain CANSail 3 certification if all skills are demonstrated during the course. This course has more content than CANSail 1 and 2 courses and will generally require 2 weeks to complete the curriculum. Opti 4 Advanced learn to race sailing for ages 8-13 Prerequisite: Optimist 3 CANSail 4 Checklist The emphasis of the Optimist 4 program is on developing racing skills while sailing faster and more efficiently. Racing rules, tactics & strategies are part of this course. Participants may obtain CANSail 4 certification if all skills are demonstrated during the course. This course has more content than CANSail 1 and 2 courses and will generally require 2 weeks to complete the curriculum. Opti 5 Advanced racing program for ages 8 - 13 Prerequisite: Optimist 4 CANSail 5 Checklist This is the most advanced course we offer for those who have completed Optimist 4. The emphasis is on advanced boat handling, racing skills, tactics and strategies. This course follows the CANSail 5 curriculum.Participants may obtain CANSail 5 certification if all skills are demonstrated during the course. This course has more content than CANSail 1 and 2 courses and will generally require 2-3 weeks to complete the curriculum. Pirate Sailboat Programs Pirate Basic Learn to sail sailing ages 13-18 CANSail 1 Checklist This Pirate Basic course is designed for teens that have never sailed before. The focus on is on learning basic sailing skills in a fun and safe environment. The course covers water safety, rigging, knots, seamanship and basic sailing maneuvers. Learning how to skipper and crew the boat builds teamwork and leadership skills. The Pirate dinghy is the boat used for the 13-18-year-olds and is usually sailed by 2 individuals for this course.Participants may obtain Sail Canada certification (CANSail 1) if all skills are demonstrated during the course. Pirate Intermediate Intermediate sailing for ages 13-18 Prerequisite: Pirate Basic CANSail 2 Checklist This Pirate Intermediate program is a more advanced course for those who have completed the Pirate Basic curriculum. The emphasis is on developing boat handling skills, independence and safety. Once completed, students should be able to sail with confidence with increased independence. Participants may obtain CANSail 2 certification if all skills are demonstrated during the course. Pirate Performance Advanced sailing and basic racing skills for ages 13-18 Prerequisite: Pirate Intermediate CANSail 3 Checklist This Pirate Performance program is a course for those who have completed the Pirate Advanced curriculum and who like to sail a double-handed boat. The emphasis is on basic racing skills with focus on sailing faster and more efficiently. The use of a Spinnaker may be introduced. Participants may obtain CANSail 3 certification if all skills are demonstrated during the course. Laser Sailing Camps Laser Performance Laser Sailing for ages 13-18 Pre-Requisite: CanSail 3 (Optimist 3 or Pirate Performance course) The Laser Sailboat is a high-performance dinghy sailed all over the world. The Laser can be used we 3 different sail sizes. The Laser 4.7 now called ILCA 4, The Laser Radial or ILCA 6 is used as the women’s Olympic class and the Laser Standard or ILCA 7 is used as the men’s Olympic class. The Laser sailboat is more demanding physically. The primary focus of this clinic will be mostly boat handling. Tacks, gybes, mark roundings, hiking, etc. You must be capable of sailing a dinghy on your own for this course. Some basic racing strategies and concepts will be also covered. For the best experience the participants should weight a minimum 120lbs or 55kg to sail a Laser and be in good physical condition. Book your sailing program now Book Now Was this page helpful? 👍 👎 Thanks for the feedback! Submit feedback

Join the WSA Race Team at our Sailing School in Whistler, BC! Learn from expert coaches and take part in thrilling racing initiatives. About the WSA Race Team Joining a sailing race team can be an exhilarating and rewarding experience for young sailors. The race team offers a dynamic and multifaceted program that not only fuels a sense of adventure, but also develops a wide range of valuable sailing and life skills. Training takes place on Sundays, with sessions focused on building skills, confidence, and teamwork on the water. The fleet includes Optimists and ILCA dinghies (Laser Radial and 4.7). Book Now Race Team Coach James Cannon A Whistler Sailing alumnus, James combines deep local knowledge with extensive experience coaching performance athletes. An experienced ILCA (Laser) sailor and wing foiler, James brings technical expertise, discipline, and energy to the race team program.

Discover the rich legacy of sailing on Alta Lake-from early 1900s adventures at Rainbow Lodge to the vibrant community spirit of the Whistler Sailing Association today. Explore a century of wind-powered passion, local traditions, and bold innovation on Whistler’s iconic waters. History of sailing on Alta Lake Origins: 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 Club 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 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.

Discover the valued sponsors behind our Sailing School at 5678 Alta Lake Road, Whistler, BC, Canada. Learn about the businesses supporting our mission! Our Sponsors Whistler Sailing relies on sponsors for survival, and their support is crucial to our mission. Their generous contributions go beyond finances, providing the foundation for our programs and equipment. We want to express our sincere thanks to our sponsors for their commitment and belief in our cause. With their support, we can continue making a positive impact in our community.

Whistler Sailing is dedicated to becoming Canada's premier carbon-neutral sailing school. Discover our array of initiatives aimed at achieving this goal. Creating a Carbon Neutral Operation At Whistler Sailing, we are deeply concerned about the environment and ecosystem of Alta Lake. With summer demand of the lakes higher than ever, our fragile environment could be at risk. Whistler Sailing is committed to ensuring the sustainability of our lake, and has initiated the Preserving Alta Lake Project. This project is dedicated to making Whistler Sailing the first carbon neutral sailing school in Canada by converting all coach boat gasoline engines to electric motors. Through fundraising, generous grants from the Whistler Blackcomb Environmental Fund and the support of a silent donor who cares deeply about the subject, Whistler Sailing has converted two motors to electric engines. While the technology is still in testing, WSA sees a future of an electrified coach boat fleet. On June 2, 2021, General Manager Francois Hebert and Commodore Patrick McCurdy made a presentation to Council regarding the electrification of Alta Lake. You can review the presentation here . Donate to the Project Preserving Alta Lake Project How the project benefits the natural environment: The replacement of our gasoline engine with electric ones will provide a number of environmental benefits, many of which will be directly tangible by lake users. These benefits can be categorized into three groups, each of which is elaborated on below: Reduced noise pollution, reduced risk of water contamination, and reduced fossil fuel use. Electric outboard motors are significantly quieter than gasoline outboard motors. During the summer months we use all of our coach boats in normal operation, each being used for roughly 5 hours a day. Thus, these gasoline engines represent a significant form of noise pollution on Alta Lake. Though the din of public parks on the lake provide the largest source of noise pollution, once lake users are out of the crowded parks our motors are a significant source of noise pollution. This noise pollution comes in two forms, above water and below water. Above waterline noise pollution detracts from the beauty of the natural environment for park users, boaters, and residents alike. Above waterline noise pollution also represents a possible deterrent for wildlife which could impact riparian interactions. Below water noise pollution has been shown on countless other water bodies to affect fish spawning, feeding, and behaviour. Below waterline noise pollution would be difficult to quantify on Alta lake, requiring significant scientific investigation. This being said, staff and participants at WSA regularly note the large number of fish that use our docks for cover and protection, especially small minnows and smolt. WSA is an ideal use case for electric boats motors for a number of reasons. Firstly, our program structure means that each boat returns to the same dock each evening, ready for charging. Unlike automotive engines Gasoline outboard motors are designed to run at maximum RPM. Due to the 12.5 km/h (7knts) speed limit on Alta Lake, WSA rarely uses our gasoline outboards at their designed RPM. This reduces efficiency and increases engine wear. Alternately, Electric motors are most efficient at lower RPM and run smoothly at all speeds. This, combined with the small size of the lake, means that, excluding price, the current limitations of electric motors are negligible in our operations. Though previous electric motors WSA has acquired have been made by Torqeedo and Ez Motor, WSA would like to change tack and begin using Mercury’s new line of Avator electric outboard motors. Torqeedo is a German company and does not have a significant North American distribution and service network. This has resulted in delays in the implementation of Torqeedo motors in our fleet. This is because Torqeedo motors and batteries are overly complex, with many proprietary parts, and Torqeedo requires the motor and batteries to be sent to their service partners for any diagnostics or repair. Mercury marine, however, is one of the largest producers of boat motors in the world and has a proven track record of performance and reliability. The Mercury Avator line of electric motors comes with standard outboard mounting, steering, and throttle controls which WSA staff are already familiar with and which are easily repairable. Additionally, Mercury has a very thorough and easily accessible dealer and service network, with many service partners across the Sea to Sky and Lower Mainland . These factors lead us to believe that Mercury Avator motors will be the most effective way for WSA to scale our electrification to the whole fleet. 2017 Barge Engine: First Test! WSA acquired its first Torqeedo electric engine in 2017 and installed it on the sailing association's barge as a trial to evaluate its suitability for a coach boat. The trial was successful, demonstrating that the electric engine met the necessary performance standards. This success led to the development of our carbon-neutral plan, which aims to replace all gasoline coach boat engines with electric engines. The advantage or using the barge as a test platform was that we could use more affordable and much heavier lead Acid batteries to get the project off the ground. The heavier batteries do not work in a small inflatable boat. 2020 Bruce Engine Our first attempt at using an electric coach boat encountered some reliability challenges related to the lack of waterproofing of the chargers and weight distribution, ultimately leading to the setup being unsuccessful for a coach boat. However, we repurposed the additional parts and lithium battery to upgrade the barge to a lithium-ion battery system. This upgrade significantly improved the barge's range and longevity. Lithium-ion batteries can withstand over 3,000 charging cycles, providing WSA with a lifespan of 15+ years of operation. Hank layout Hank Layout, waterproof battery box Battery Box Inside in Aluminium, switches and wiring Sturdy waterproof, Battery Box Inside Aluminium casing with switches and wiring out of the elements to avoid any electrical hazards. Motor Brushless motor design, only 45lbs. Charger and control unit Charging Plug Boat can is charged in the water at our dock. Coach Jeff + Lab "LUNA" 2023 Hank EZ Motor WSA purchased an EZ motor for our coach boat, Hank, which operated successfully for 7 out of our 10-week camp season. A manufacturing defect caused an issue, but EZ Motor provided a replacement lower unit free of charge. The motor is back in operation for the 2024 season. The coaches loved its ease of use, maneuverability, quietness, and torque, making Hank one of our most popular coach boats. Hank is a new addition to our fleet, we selected this vessel with electrification in mind. The weight of the battery box and charger requires a slightly larger vessel. Hank is a 3.8m (12.5ft) foldable boat with an aluminum floor, very lightweight for its size, and has a flatter bottom for good handling with minimal wake at the 12km/h speed limit on Alta Lake. It also has a significant weight capacity of 725kg (1598lbs), which is helpful for carrying the battery weight. Check out a short video of Hank in action 2020 The future: Mercury Avator Mercury marine is one of the largest producers of boat motors in the world and has a proven track record of performance and reliability. The Mercury Avator line of electric motors comes with standard outboard mounting, steering, and throttle controls which WSA staff are already familiar with and which are easily repairable. Additionally, Mercury has a very thorough and easily accessible dealer and service network, with many service partners across the Sea to Sky and Lower Mainland . These factors lead us to believe that Mercury Avator motors will be the most effective way for WSA to scale our electrification to the whole fleet. Learn more: Avator line brochure

Discover the perfect membership for you at our Sailing School in Whistler, BC. From season pass club memberships to Race memberships, find your ideal fit today! Members As a non-profit organization, every person who uses Whistler Sailing must have an active membership. Buy Your Membership Which membership is right for me? Basic Membership Access to WSA programs and facilities. Think of this like your membership to Costco! Racing Membership Includes Basic membership and access to Wednesday Night Racing, including race entry and use of a club boat. Seasons Pass Includes Basic and Racing membership, and the ability to take a Pirate Sailboat within operating hours. Note: a mandatory sailing orientation is required for all new Seasons Pass members. Hobie Wave access Optional "add-on" for Seasons Pass members, which includes access to the Hobie Wave fleet during operating hours. Boat Storage Boat Storage is available on a first come first served basis for sailing dinghies under 16 feet in length. Due to the limited space on site and the width of our boat ramp we do not offer any storage for multihulls. Wing Foil Locker Wing Foil gear lockers are allocated on a first-come, first-served basis. Each locker measures 182cm in height, 44cm in depth, and 80cm in width. Membership Rules Members must be checked out on proper and safe handling of the boat. They are also given a tour of the facilities and taken through club procedures for booking the boats, reporting issues, launching and returning boats. Members must be 19 years of age or older. Members shall accept full responsibility for the safety of all guests while using WSA boats. Members are only allowed to sail with guests or friends during club events, such as Wednesday night races or Supervised Sail sessions. Office staff must be present when guests are visiting with members. Guests must pay appropriate fees to participate and sign a waiver. Family membership includes immediate family only (parents and kids). Relatives (including Aunts, Uncles, Grandparents, etc) are subject to paying the appropriate fees. Docking at any other docks/beaches on Alta Lake other than WSA docks is not permitted with club boats. Members are not to use the facilities outside of club operating hours. WSA reserves the right to adjust these hours based on operational needs. All users of WSA facilities and equipment must sign a waiver. Membership Rules Member Agreement To accept responsibility for any injury, loss of equipment or damage to the boat during his/her use. To volunteer a minimum of 8 hours to assist in either boat maintenance, club administration or events. To report any loss or damage by phone or email within 2 hours after boat-use. To follow WSA procedures for boat preparation, launching, docking, sailing and return of the boat & equipment. To abide by the WSA and Coast Guard safety regulations (wear a life jacket, take paddle, bailer, bow-painter.) To make a reservation for boat use through the correct channel. To accept all responsibility for injuries or death caused to others, damage or loss of equipment caused by the member to others or others’ boats, equipment or property. To follow club operating hours. To abide by WSA safety protocols when using WSA facilities or equipment. Members Orientation Season Pass Members Skill Assessment and Orientation You must book a skill assessment/orientation sail with us for the Seasons Pass membership. These sessions are an assessment of your skills. You will also be given an orientation of the club facilities and procedures. These sessions are 60 minutes long, please come prepared to sail. The cost for these sessions is $60 and is non-refundable. To schedule your orientation, contact our coaching team at info@whistlersailing.com or by phone at 604-229-2291. In your email please write in the subject line Sailing Assessment Required. Please give us a brief overview of your sailing experience and skills. Upon successful completion of the Sailing Assessment session, you will be permitted to take the club Pirate sailboats out on your own. If your skills are not at the standard, the $60 checkout fee can be applied to an adult course or private lesson offered by WSA. All skippers can expect to be tested on the following; boat rigging and de-rigging boat launching docking boat retrieval 30 min of sailing club policies and rules storage procedures responsibilities of the Seasons Pass members liability and responsibility Volunteering for members The Whistler Sailing Association is a community, as such we ask you to volunteer throughout the year to keep membership fees down and to continue providing high quality facilities and a family friendly environment. All members are encouraged to volunteer to assist with the maintenance of the equipment, events and activities. Each year we would like to see you volunteer approximately 8 hours. Volunteer opportunities include attending and helping with the annual boat launch, RMOW pitch in day, annual BC Circuit Regatta, Boat haul out and other events. Thank you in advance for your help and support. Was this page helpful? 👍 👎 Thanks for the feedback! Submit feedback

Wing Foiling Lessons and Programs on Alta Lake by Whistler Sailing Association Adult Wing Foiling Lessons Beginner to advanced wing foiling lessons on Alta Lake. Wingfoiling is an exciting and relatively new water sport that offers a unique blend of wind and water dynamics, making it accessible and enjoyable for a wide range of water sports enthusiasts. Wingfoiling combines elements of windsurfing, kiteboarding, and surfing. It involves using a handheld inflatable wing, known as a wing, to harness the power of the wind and propel a rider across the water while standing on a board equipped hydrofoil. Book Now Why learn to wing foil in Whistler? Reliable, Beginner-Friendly Wind Alta’s thermal wind reliably kicks in during the afternoon, delivering steady breezes between 12–16 knots - considered the sweet spot for wing foiling. These predictable conditions allow for confident skill-building and progression. Warm, Fresh Water Alta Lake offers warm freshwater conditions, with summer temperatures reaching 20°C (70°F)—perfect for comfortable sessions in just a thin wetsuit. With no tides to consider, it’s an ideal setting for relaxed, extended time on the water. Flat Water Conditions Due to the relatively small size of the lake, Alta provides consistently flat, nearly wave-free water. This smooth surface is ideal for beginners, making learning to wing foil feel stable and approachable from the very first session. Unique Floating Barge Setup Our custom-built floating barge serves as the ultimate classroom. It’s where you’ll master wing handling techniques before transitioning seamlessly into your water session. You maximize your time on the water - no walking, long boat rides, or waiting around. It’s a great staging area and launch pad, just a few steps from the action. And with incredible mountain views, it’s hard to beat as a place to learn. Why learn to wing foil in whistler? Equipment Wing A handheld, inflatable wing that generates lift from the wind. The rider holds onto the wing with their hands. Hydrofoil The hydrofoil lifts the board out of the water as it gains speed, reducing drag and allowing for a smoother ride. A board without a hydrofoil using a daggerboard and fins is initially used for learning. Board Inflatable Learn to Foil (LTF) board with daggerboard. The hydrofoil is attached later once wing handling and basic manoeuvres are achieved. Safety Riders often wear a wetsuit, helmet, and life jacket for protection and buoyancy. Contact us to start your wing foiling adventure Book Now

Wing Foiling Lessons and Programs on Alta Lake by Whistler Sailing Association Youth Wing Foiling Summer Camps Learn to Wing Foil on Alta Lake this Summer! Join us for an unforgettable week of wing foiling on Alta Lake! Our 5-day Youth Wing Foiling Camps are designed to introduce young adventurers to one of the fastest-growing and most exciting water sports. Wing foiling combines the best elements of windsurfing, kiteboarding, and surfing. Riders use a lightweight, inflatable wing to catch the wind while balancing on a hydrofoil board that glides above the water. It's a thrilling, dynamic experience that builds balance, coordination, and confidence on the water. Throughout the week, young sailors will learn the fundamentals of wing control, board handling, safety, and riding techniques, progressing from land-based practice to getting up on foil. Book now Equipment Wing A handheld, inflatable wing that generates lift from the wind. The rider holds onto the wing with their hands. Hydrofoil The hydrofoil lifts the board out of the water as it gains speed, reducing drag and allowing for a smoother ride. A board without a hydrofoil using a daggerboard and fins is initially used for learning. Board Inflatable Learn to Foil (LTF) board with daggerboard. The hydrofoil is attached later once wing handling and basic manoeuvres are achieved. Safety Riders often wear a wetsuit, helmet, and life jacket for protection and buoyancy. Book your spot now. Book now

Set sail on an unforgettable adventure with our boat charters and guided sailing tours. Discover the beauty of Whistler, BC from the water. Boat Charters Boat charters are available in our Pirate sailboats (2 people max) or Hobie Wave catamarans (4 people max). Previous sailing experience mandatory. Skippers must be confident rigging the boat, launching, sailing upwind, downwind and docking. 2025 Hourly Charter Rates Charters are booked by the hour. Choose your vessel and get ready for adventure: Pirate: $59/hour Hobie Cat " Wave": $89/hour Hobie Cat "Getaway":$119/hour Membership Requirement To enjoy our facilities—including all charters—guests must hold a current membership: Basic Membership: $25 (for individual sailors) Family Membership: $50 (required if two or more people sail together) **Membership fees are automatically added at checkout. One-time seasonal fee, valid for the entire sailing season. Learn more about our memberships. Charter your boat now Guided Sailing Tour Looking to spend an afternoon on the lake, but not interested in learning the basics? No problem. Join us for one of our guided sailing tours on our comfortable Hobie Wave sailboat, and enjoy the beautiful views from Alta Lake while we do the rigging, launching and sailing. Everyone using the club including guided sailing tours must become a Basic Member. Learn more about our memberships here. Inquire about our Guided Sailing Tours Private Lessons Kids & Youth Was this page helpful? 👍 👎 Thanks for the feedback! Submit feedback