The CANSail program is Canada’s national learn-to-sail curriculum developed by Sail Canada and recognized by World Sailing. It provides a structured pathway to learn sailing safely, progressively, and on the water with certified instructors. At Westwood, our CANSail program introduces you to sailing using our fleet of Albacores, one of the best dinghies for developing strong fundamental sailing skills

CANSail Pathway

CANSail 1 & 2 — Learn to Sail

By the end of this stage, sailors:

• Understand wind direction and points of sail

• Can steer and trim sails effectively

• Can sail safely in moderate conditions

• Can sail independently with supervision

Successful completion certifies you for CANSail Levels 1 & 2

CANSail 3

CANSail 3 is an intermediate-level sailing course within the national CANSail program developed by Sail Canada.

This level focuses on helping sailors move beyond basic boat handling into more confident, independent sailing with an introduction to tactics, strategy, and performance sailing skills.

Successful completion of this course certifies sailors for CANSail Level 3.

CANSail 4

CANSail 4 is an advanced intermediate sailing level in the national CANSail program developed by Sail Canada.

At this stage, sailors move beyond basic performance skills and begin to sail with greater independence, efficiency, and tactical awareness in a wider range of conditions.

Successful completion of this course certifies sailors for CANSail Level 4.