The Junior Sailing program has been in continuous operation since the early 90’s, starting in Thieves Bay (Pender) and moving to Browning Harbour shortly after inception. The goals of the program remain true to their island family roots with many hundreds of students graduating from the program.

Junior Sailing is recognized by Sail BC and provides diploma certification of the SailCan program. Both beginner and advanced programs for juniors aged 9+ and adults are offered during July and August.

The sailing program emphasizes safety, fun and learning in an outdoor environment with lots of hands-on experience. Weather permitting, participants will be on the water every day for most of the course time. Our Board philosophy is summarized as:
• Keep our kids safe
• Foster self-esteem and team participation
• Master key sailing skills
• Minimize fear of the unknown

Sailing is from a sandy beach on Browning Harbour. The bay consistently experiences 5-10 knot winds blowing towards a sheltered shore with excellent protection on 3 sides. July and August weather tends to mid-20’s Celsius with sunny skies.

While the Directors of PIJSA provide much of the on-beach support for the students, we are also grateful to the parents and grandparents who stay and help, and other members of the community who volunteer their time. The much-appreciated financial support this year was from the Pender Islands Yacht Club, the Tru-Valu Spirit Board, CRD Parks and Recreation, The Legion, and Port Browning Marina and Pub, who house our site at Hamilton Beach. This support, and the work of Directors and volunteers allows us to keep the course costs down.