Learn to Sail is an initiative by Sail Nova Scotia hosted by Yacht Clubs all over Nova Scotia. It introduces youth of all ages to the basics of sailing, the responsibilities of boat handling, and the importance of teamwork. This past summer, the Dobson Yacht Club in Sydney launched its first Learn to Sail program.  

In July, the Dobson Yacht Club saw 12 first-time sailors participate in the course. Spots filled up quickly, and Sail Nova Scotia provided the equipment, making it accessible for more children to participate.  

“After last year’s success, we want to expand Sail Nova Scotia’s program from one week to two weeks this year. In the next two years, we want to acquire boats and hire staff to run our own program.” Said Gavin Andrews, Secretary of Dobson Yacht Club.  

Along with support from Sail Nova Scotia, volunteer assistance was essential to the program’s success. Volunteers stepped up to find accommodations for instructors throughout the program and organized transportation to get the boats from Port Hawkesbury to the Dobson Yacht Club.  

“Sail Nova Scotia was a great partner in this program. It was very important since we do not have boats or the training for our own program yet,” said Andrews.  

There has yet to be a date set for this summer’s Learn to Sail, however, the club hopes it will run the first two weeks of July.  

The Dobson Yacht Club Learn to Sail Program was made possible with the assistance of Sport Nova Scotia’s Sport Fund- Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion grant. For more information about how Sport Nova Scotia can help support your community sport initiative, check out our Sport Fund eligibility page on our website.