VIMA is a Canadian Yachting Association (CYA) school and was the first fully certified training centre for the Royal Yachting Association (RYA) in Canada.

Our courses provide training for the everyday recreational sailor to accredited certificates of competence, including the 200 ton Yachtmaster Certificate endorsed by the MCA.

With immediate access to the Juan de Fuca and Haro Strait our programs have regular winds and sea conditions that challenge both the beginner and experienced sailor.

VIMA is commited to increasing safety on our waterways, our instructors pride themselves on good seamanship practice and excellence in boat handling skills

Practical courses run all year round, either locally as CYA day programs 10am-4pm or as RYA live aboard cruises around Vancouver Island.

Theory courses are separate modules to practical training and can be taken at any stage of your learning. Classes are run through online learning, and classroom sessions and run all year.

Which course you take depends entirely on your goals and existing experience our full yacht training program can be found here.

If you are new to sailing and unsure where to start please see our Keelboat and Yacht sailing – Where to start? or email us to discuss your options

One of the key aspects of learning to sail is gaining experience outside of and between your training courses; all students completing  the Keelboat Dayskipper level, receive membership to our sailing club for a limited time

If you cannot find the sail training program to suit you please contact us, we routinely customize sailing programs for individuals and groups throughout the year