Boating and Navigation Courses for Power and Sailboat Operators
Come boating in BC.
Have fun on the water while learning to operate your boat safely and
confidently.
Picture yourself at the
helm with your family and friends experiencing the freedom and adventure boating
offers.
Whether you are a new
boater, moving up to a larger vessel, or from sail to power or vice versa we can assist you with private
instruction tailored to your needs. You may obtain your Coastal Navigation certification and VHF Radio Operator's
certificate with our home-study programs.
Since 1980, Gulf Islands Cruising School Ltd. has been providing quality boating
instruction. We are the oldest cruising school in B.C. under continuous
ownership.
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Hi Robb: I wanted to give you a report and recap of our trip to Annacortes. We travelled on Sunday
afternoon and therefore we were at the boatyard and onboard Toot by 8:00 AM on November 6.
Bruce did a hull inspection and checked that the zincs were all replaced. We then started at one
end of the boat (cockpit ) and went through every nook, cranny and storage compartment, Bruce
explaining function and operation of every single system and piece of equipment on that boat. He
talked about maintenance and area's/items to be mindful of. We did a complete engine compartment
visual, explaining systems and checking cooling, engine and transmission fluids. Once fluid levels
were determined and adjusted we then fired up the engine. While the engine was warming we discussed
docking, lines and knots, reinstalled the antennae's and washed all windows.
Bruce then explained all of the navigation equipment, locating and discussing transducers,
switches, etc. We determined a course at that time and set a series of waypoints to Sidney
Harbour.
After we moved to Cap Sante sales dock and cleared customs, purchased a few flares ( me and my big
mouth, we weren't permitted to "carry on" flares ) we then fuelled up and were on our way at 2:30
PM.
As you know, it was quite dark when we pulled into Sidney Harbour at 6:15. Bruce was calm and
collected as we navigated through the dark, confirming radar points, searching and identifying
beacons and buoys for course confirmation as we proceeded. Admittedly I was nervous but at no point
did I feel that the vessel or myself were in anything but capable hands.
Upon arrival Bruce phoned customs and then we moved the boat to your sales dock ( Thank you very
much!! )
Bruce did not consider his obligation complete until we moved Toot to her home berth this morning
at Marina Park.
I simply could not imagine how a delivery captain could possibly exceed the level of information,
orientation, responsibility and professionalism that Bruce delivered.
5 stars and money well spent!! I would recommend using Bruce for any Newbies requesting
training.
Regards
Murray
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| Murray F. Sidney BC Nov. 7, 2017 |
Pleasure Craft Operators
The
Canadian Government has brought in regulations requiring all boaters operating a powered boat to have proof
of competency. A Pleasure Craft Operators Card is one acceptable form. The deadline for having proof of proficiency
was September 15,
2009
Not a boat owner or a boater wanting to experience the cruising grounds of
BC? Many clients prefer to cruise from Sidney which is
easily accessible by plane or ferry. The Victoria International Airport as well as the BC Ferry and Anacortes
Ferry Terminals are within fifteen minutes drive.
By starting a cruise from Sidney on Vancouver
Island, there are many places to explore within a few hours travel time - Sidney Spit Marine Park, Portland
Island, North and South Pender, Galiano Island and Saltspring Island. The above destinations are within
twenty miles of Sidney. Most of the islands are approximately two miles apart and are sheltered from the
Strait of Georgia.
We act as brokers for the major charter companies in BC. Allow us
to assist you in finding the vessel for your vacation. We can also arrange charters with a
Instructor aboard.
Come and explore the Gulf Islands. Choose from
bustling resorts or quiet anchorages.
Discover the unspoiled beauty of the inland sea
where eagles fly and Orcas swim.
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