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Learn to Sail
The Canadian Yachting Association's Learn to Sail standards provide safe, standardized instruction for recreation and competition in sailing dinghies.
Student Standards
White Sail Levels I, II and III are the introductory levels. Beginners are introduced to and taught the basic skills of sailing. These levels cover safety, seamanship and boat handling in winds to 9 knots velocity.
Bronze Sail Levels IV and V are levels where sailors are introduced to advanced sailing techniques, including sail trim, boat tuning, boat maintenance, trapezing and the use of the spinnaker. After completing the bronze standards, sailors are competent in winds up to 25 km/hr.
Silver Sail Level VI and Gold Sail Level VII introduce sailors to racing and advanced racing respectively. They cover racing rules, sail theory, tactics and advanced boat handling skills in all weather.
Instructional courses meeting the CYA Learn to Sail Standard are available at yacht & sailing clubs, sailing schools, community colleges, the YMCA, the Sea Cadets, the Department of National Defence and Scouts Canada.
Instructor Standards
White Sail Coaches are trained to teach basic sailing skills to beginner participants and are authorized to award the White Sail I, II, and III sailor levels when registered for the current year. White Sail coaches who also complete the Wet Feet and Opti professional development modules are also authorized to run these specific programs geared towards younger sailors.
Bronze Sail Coaches are trained to teach intermediate sailing skills to more advanced participants, and are authorized to award Bronze Sail IV and V sailor levels, when registered for the current year.
Learn to Race Coach program has been designed to introduce racing to young athletes while at the same time encouraging them in a fun environment.
Orange Racing Coaches (NCCP Level III) can certify up to and including Gold Sail VII of the Learn to Sail program, when registered for the current year.
Learning Facilitators are trained to evaluate and train sailing instructors and coaches.
High Performance Racing Coaches (NCCP Level 4/5) plan, implement, and evaluate a variety of programs and activities aimed at providing an environment that is optimal for the overall development of the athlete, including those who phpire to and have the potential for international levels of performance.
Click here for information on the New NCCP Learn To Sail/Race Coach Programs
