Can I learn how to sail?

Most definitely! We are happy to either show you the ropes if you want a hands-on experience, or cater to your comfort if you would like to enjoy the stunning scenery and watch us do the work.

Where is the best place to sail near Vancouver?

Squamish is less than an hour from Vancouver on the highway to Whistler, and one of the best places in world to sail. We enjoy a topographic phenomenon called Anabatic Wind that ensures near perfect sailing conditions from May to September. Combined with the stunning scenery of British Columbia's southern-most fjord and a welcoming crew, a sailing experience with Canadian Coastal is guaranteed to be the highlight of your summer.

What are some other activities in Squamish?

Besides being one of the best places in BC to sail, Squamish is the outdoor recreation capital of Canada: a destination for kiteboarding, climbing, mountain biking, and hiking. Combine your Canadian Coastal sailboat tour with a trip up the Sea to Sky Gondola or a pre-departure lunch at one of our great local bistros!

Are there any age restrictions?

Not at all, we can comfortably and safely accommodate all ages.

What do I need for the sailing tour?

We recommend that you check the forecast the day before arrival and pack accordingly. We have lots of room aboard, so feel free to pack a bag with some extra layers for warmth and wind/rain protection. Please wear non-marking shoes such as runners or skate-shoes. Don't forget your sunglasses, sunscreen, hat and camera!

What can I do to respect and protect our oceans?

We are glad that you have chosen an eco-friendly experience, and we ask that our guests make every effort to minimize their impact on the marine environment. Please avoid bringing any plastic items on deck and ensure that all of your personal belongings are secure so that they do not fall overboard.

What if the forecast calls for a rainy or cloudy day?

The forecast tends to be biased towards rain, and some of our best days on the water have been in contrast to the long-term forecast. We will not leave that docks if conditions are unsafe, but keep an open mind if you see a few clouds in the sky - watching them flow through the valleys and over mountain tops can add an unexpected dimension to the experience.

What if I need to cancel?

We recognize that life has unexpected turns and plans occasionally change. If you booked directly with Canadian Coastal, please refer to our Cancellation Policy , otherwise, refer to the respective policies if booked through one of our partners.

What happens if I feel seasick?

While we can’t guarantee how you will feel, we have yet to have a guest sick on board. We have great winds , a steady vessel, and protected waters, meaning that there is very little wave motion. If you are concerned, speak with pharmacist regarding anti-nausea options, and bring along some ginger candy - trust us!

Is there a bathroom on the boat?

There are TWO heads (a.k.a. boat bathrooms) aboard, however, they are probably a little different than what you have at home. Don't worry though, we'll explain everything once you arrive.

Do we have to wear life jackets?

Your safety and comfort are our top priorities, and we require that everyone wear a Personal Flotation Device (aka: life jacket) while sailing. If you’re imagining something orange and bulky like your grandmother made you wear, think again! We’ve done our best to find the most comfortable PFD’s out there. On a side note, if you find airline seats to be a bit tight, give us a heads up and we’ll make sure we have an appropriate PFD for you.

We love kids of all ages! Infants will often fall asleep with the movement of the vessel, and older kids enjoy exploring. Once you book, you will receive an email with departure information; please provide us with the height and weights of your children so that we have properly sized safety equipment ready to go!

I feel uneasy about being on the water. Should I still come?

We understand that there is a wide range of comfort levels on the water, and we do our best to ensure everyone feels safe while on-board. We are trained and experienced in both sailing and customer service, and do our best to create an experience that is fun, safe and memorable for all the right reasons.

Is the vessel accessible?

Lowering barriers so that we may share the thrill and beauty of sailing in this special part of the world is part of our core values. Our innovative docking method allows guests to simply 'step on' to the vessel instead of 'climbing aboard' like most other sailboats. Due to space constraints, we are not able to accommodate wheelchairs.

If we drive to Squamish, is there parking nearby?

Our departure location at the Squamish Harbour Authority has a large parking lot. There is no charge for parking, and therefore it can be busy on weekends. Plan to arrive a little early and avoid parking anxiety!

How do we get from Vancouver to Squamish?

The Sea-to-Sky highway (highway 99) is one of the most scenic drives in North America. If you are driving, plan extra time, especially on weekends, due to additional traffic volumes. Although there is currently no public transportation, there are several services providing transportation between Vancouver and Squamish. The Squamish Connector provides scheduled bus service between Vancouver and Squamish, whereas Alpine North Limousine offers an on-demand luxury transportation option.

How do we get from Whistler to Squamish?

Travelling between Whistler and Squamish is a a sensory journey between sea and sky. If you are driving, plan extra time, especially on the weekends, due to additional traffic volumes. Both the BC Connector and Skylynx provide scheduled bus service between Whistler and Squamish, whereas Alpine North Limousine offers an on-demand luxury transportation option

Squamish Sailing & Boat Tours

Experience the Legendary Winds of Squamish

Date

Date

Premiere sailing conditions, stunning views and exceptional hospitality

Squamish is the wind-sport capital of Canada and one of the premiere locations in the world to sail. Canadian Coastal Sailing offers a selection of professionally crewed boat tours departing from downtown Squamish designed for individuals, private groups or special occasions.

What people say

Featured Sailing Tours in Squamish

Shared and private boat tours departing from downtown Squamish

Exclusive Sailing Experiences For Small Groups

Private Sailing Charter

Starting at 3 Hours

4.96 (298 reviews)

Whether planning a romantic occasion or escaping outdoors with your social bubble, the magic of sailing through the mountainous fjord of northern Howe Sound will be a cherished memory for years to come. Enjoy the exclusive use of our crewed vessel and the flexibility of an experience customized for you and your group.

Sail the Legendary Winds of Squamish

Afternoon Sailing Experience

3 Hours

4.98 (378 reviews)

There is no better way to spend the afternoon amongst the majestic views of Howe Sound than a hands-on sailing experience aboard a 40 foot sailing yacht. Sailing the legendary winds of Squamish provides a perspective that few have experienced, and many have desired.

Indulge in the romance of a summertime sunset sail

Romantic Sunset Sail

3 Hours

4.97 (239 reviews)

For those that see beauty as the day begins to close, we know that you will cherish our favourite time on the water. Join us as the wind settles, the sun lowers across the Tantalus mountains and the alpenglow starts to paint the sky with rosy hues.

A Unique and Rare Perspective of Squamish

Squamish attracts people with a passion to explore. The waters of northern Howe Sound remain one of the last local frontiers, with few having experienced the emerald waters, panoramic views and exhilaration of sailing the Legendary Winds of Squamish.

Top reasons to book a Squamish boat tour

Visiting Friends & Family

You love this place, and they love that you have a guest bedroom.

Marine Wildlife

Witness the recovery of Howe Sound and the return of orcas, porpoise, sea lions and more!

Celebrate an Anniversary

Cozy up and enjoy a magical evening as the sun sets over the Tantalus Mountains

Learn How to Sail

An introduction to years of adventures at sea

Reward Your Staff

Let your staff know they are appreciated. Treat them to a team-building afternoon on the water

Adventure Elopement

Pull some lines and tie the knot!

Visiting Friends & Family

You love this place, and they love that you have a guest bedroom.

Marine Wildlife

Witness the recovery of Howe Sound and the return of orcas, porpoise, sea lions and more!

Celebrate an Anniversary

Cozy up and enjoy a magical evening as the sun sets over the Tantalus Mountains

Learn How to Sail

An introduction to years of adventures at sea

Reward Your Staff

Let your staff know they are appreciated. Treat them to a team-building afternoon on the water

Adventure Elopement

Pull some lines and tie the knot!

Questions Often Asked

For other questions, visit our FAQ Page

Does Squamish have boat tours?

Squamish is Canada's premiere destination for sailing, with consistent winds and protected waters. Daily sailing boat tours are available during late spring, summer and early fall.

Can I learn to sail in Squamish?

Learning to sail in Squamish will spoil you for any other sailing destination! Squamish is the wind-sport capital of Canada for a good reason: we have great wind. Combined with the protected waters of northern Howe Sound makes Squamish the best place in Canada to learn to sail.

What are some of the best Squamish summer activities?

Summers in Squamish are epic. There is an abundance of summer activities, from mountain activities such as hiking, mountain biking, and climbing, to our well-earned reputation as a world class destination for windsports like sailing, kiting and windsurfing on the emerald waters of Howe Sound.

My family is visiting. Is there an activity that everyone will enjoy?

Sailing is a great choice for multi-generation families and groups with people seeking different levels of activity. Guests are welcome to join the crew for a hands-on experience, or sit back and enjoy the majesty of northern Howe Sound. Choose your own adventure, together!