🌊 Jericho Sailing Centre: Vancouver’s Ocean Playground for All Ages
Discover Jericho Sailing Centre—a community hub offering affordable sailing, windsurfing, and more on Vancouver's scenic English Bay.
WBN News Kitsilano
✍️ By Karalee Greer | WBN News – Kitsilano | May 7, 2025
Nestled on the south shore of English Bay, the Jericho Sailing Centre (JSCA) stands as Vancouver's premier ocean community centre, dedicated to providing affordable access to water sports for individuals and families alike. https://jsca.bc.ca/
I've walked and biked past the Jericho Sailing Centre many times over the years and have enjoyed stopping to watch the hustle and bustle of children and adults taking sailing lessons out on the water and having fun. The restaurant is also open to the public and is a fabulous spot to eat or have an icecream while enjoying the scenery.
A Rich Maritime History
Established in the mid-1970s, the JSCA transformed a former military site into a vibrant hub for non-motorized watercraft enthusiasts. The centre's roots trace back to community efforts in the early 1970s, culminating in the city's acquisition of the land in 1973. Homepage
Membership: Open and Inclusive
As a non-profit organization, JSCA welcomes all individuals without restrictive criteria. Memberships are available for singles, families, and juniors, with annual fees starting at $126 for singles and $179 for families. Members gain access to amenities such as showers, change rooms, a members' lounge, rooftop deck, and discounted rates at the on-site restaurant, The Galley Patio & Grill. https://cloning.jsca.bc.ca/membership-information/
Diverse Fleet and Learning Opportunities
JSCA hosts several affiliated clubs and schools, including the UBC Sailing Club, MacSailing, and Windsure, offering a range of watercraft for rent or instruction. The UBC Sailing Club boasts a fleet of over 80 boats, including sailboats, kayaks, windsurf boards, and stand-up paddleboards. https://cloning.jsca.bc.ca/clubs/
Lessons through the affiliated clubs and schools cater to all skill levels, from beginners to advanced sailors, with courses like the 24-hour beginner sailing class. Refer to the links for more information. https://ubcsailing.org/ https://www.macsailing.com/ https://www.windsure.com/
Family-Friendly Environment
JSCA prides itself on being a welcoming space for families. Programs and facilities are designed to accommodate participants of all ages, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience on the water. Family memberships allow spouses and children to access the centre's offerings together.
The Galley Patio & Grill
Overlooking the picturesque English Bay, The Galley Patio & Grill serves as the centre's on-site restaurant, offering a relaxed dining experience with stunning ocean views. Open from 11:30 AM to 8:00 PM, weather permitting, it provides a perfect spot to unwind after a day on the water. https://thegalley.ca
Rooms are Available to Rent for Events
To book a room at the Jericho Sailing Centre (JSCA), you must be a current member of the Jericho Sailing Centre Association. Membership is open to individuals and families, and non-members can join at the time of booking. https://jsca.bc.ca/facilities/room-rentals/
Five Rooms are Available:
- Burrard Banquet Room: Combines the North West and North East Rooms and accommodates up to 100 guests.
- North West Room: capacity of 59
- North East Room: capacity of 39
- South East Room: capacity of 44
- South West Room: 18′ x 9′; capacity of 12
All rooms open onto the deck, offering stunning views of English Bay. To book, complete the Room Booking Application Form available on the JSCA website. Bookings are subject to approval by the General Manager.
Liquor License and Catering:
The JSCA holds a liquor license for the Burrard Room and Members’ Lounge. Jericho Foods is the exclusive caterer for events, providing a range of dining options. For events involving alcohol, organizers must coordinate with Jericho Foods and may need to provide proof of insurance and obtain a Special Occasion License if applicable.
Events must conclude by midnight on weekdays and by 1:00 AM on weekends. A minimum charge of $50 applies to any room booking. SOCAN and Re:Sound fees apply if copyrighted music is played during the event. https://jsca.bc.ca/facilities/room-rentals/
Getting Involved
Whether you're a seasoned sailor or a curious newcomer, the Jericho Sailing Centre invites you to join its vibrant community. With its inclusive membership, diverse programs, and commitment to accessible water sports, JSCA stands as a beacon for ocean enthusiasts in Vancouver.
Tags: #WBN News Sea to Sky #Karalee Greer #Kitsilano #Jericho Sailing Centre #Vancouver Watersports #Sailing Vancouver #Learn To Sail
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