What is the Status of the 2020 Summer Courses?

The coming season remains a “Tentative Go”.  The word tentative is critical as we need to see how the virus situation evolves.

What Will the Final Decision Depend On?

1^st and foremost will be a decision by Canadian governing authorities on the virus and relaxation of self-distancing rules. We will abide by Provincial and Federal guidelines and align with the BC Sail governing association.

We also have club-specific criteria in terms of minimum enrollment numbers and the availability of instructors and support staff.

When Will a Decision be Taken?

The decision point will likely be mid-June as we require 30 days to make support arrangements and prepare vessels/premises. This assumes July courses will launch (currently considered doubtful).

If we limit sailing to August (more likely), a decision can be deferred to July 1st.

What is the Current Canadian Situation on Corona-19?

As of April 17, 2020, the following measures are in force:

• Travel: The border closure with the USA is likely to be extended to mid-May, Island Ferry services are reduced and domestic air travellers must wear face masks.
• Canada is under a “stay at home” health guidance with mandated 2-meter (6-foot) distancing for any sorties (impossible in a boat).
• Face masks are recommended for any public place visits and most islanders are self-isolating.
• Part-time residents/visitors have been asked to stay in their home province and not visit recreational properties in BC.
• Only essential services (for example grocery/gas stores) are open for customer visits under restricted-access conditions.

What Should Prospective Sailors Do?

Returning students should register on May 1^st at infopijsa@shaw.ca. Potential new students should register on May 15^th at the same email address.

Given the uncertain situation, we will only require payment once a final decision on course prospects has been taken in June.

For details of course dates/costs please refer to the appropriate headings at the top of this web site.