At Underway Sailing, every journey is a declaration of freedom—not just on the water, but within. More than a sailing school, it’s a philosophy in motion. From first-timers to confident captains, instructors guide you through wind patterns, wave rhythms, and the art of self-reliance. The moment you steer your own boat through morning mist, gliding past Vancouver’s serene bay, you realize: true freedom isn’t about escaping—it’s about finding your own course. In these endless blue waters, you discover not just sailing skills, but your own inner compass.


Everything you need to know about Underway Sailing
Waterfront Hotel Vancouver is a top choice, located just a 5-minute walk from the Underway Sailing dock in downtown Vancouver. The hotel offers ocean-view rooms with panoramic views of Stanley Park and Burrard Inlet. Facilities include a 24-hour concierge, indoor pool, and a rooftop bar perfect for unwinding after a sailing adventure. Easy access via SkyTrain or city buses makes it ideal for travelers exploring the region.
The easiest option is taking the SkyTrain Expo Line to Waterfront Station, then walking 7 minutes along Harbour Centre Walk to the Underway Sailing dock. Alternatively, board city buses such as route 10 or 30 at "Georgia St & Dunsmuir St" and walk 5 minutes. The journey takes about 15 minutes without needing to drive, saving time and parking costs—ideal for guests joining sailing lessons or renting boats.
Sailing courses at Underway Sailing offer hands-on training with certified instructors, covering wind reading, sail handling, and navigation safety protocols. Participants sail on double or four-person dinghies across Burrard Inlet, enjoying breathtaking views of Vancouver’s coastal landscape. Upon completion, attendees receive a certificate of achievement and can relax at the nearby waterfront café, sipping local tea while soaking in sunset views over the harbour—perfect for unforgettable memories.
The area surrounding Underway Sailing features a stunning blend of Stanley Park’s ancient forests and the shimmering waters of Burrard Inlet. Visitors enjoy panoramic views of the mountain skyline against the cityscape, with frequent sightings of seagulls soaring and harbour seals surfacing. Sunset here paints the sky in golden hues, creating a magical atmosphere perfect for photography. Nearby also lies a running trail and picnic area, ideal for families and couples seeking relaxed seaside moments.
For sailing at Underway Sailing, bring a sun hat, sunglasses, and a waterproof jacket, as sea breezes can be chilly even on sunny days. No need to bring your own gear—life jackets, helmets, and all sailing equipment are provided. Wear comfortable sportswear and non-slip shoes; barefoot sailing is not recommended. First-time participants should book a basic orientation session to learn rigging adjustments and fundamental techniques under expert guidance, ensuring both safety and enjoyment.
Yes, Underway Sailing provides private boat rentals for groups of 2 to 4 people. Rental options include 2-hour or half-day sessions, ideal for friend gatherings, proposals, or corporate team-building. Each boat is equipped with navigation tools and two-way radios for safety. Guests can choose between guided tours or self-navigation modes. Located at the Vancouver waterfront dock, rentals can be booked online or paid on-site—perfect for experiencing Vancouver’s coastal beauty with freedom and flexibility.
Fairmont Pacific Rim is a top choice, located directly on Vancouver's harbor front, offering panoramic views of Stanley Park and Burrard Street Pier. Just a 5-minute walk from Underway Sailing’s dock, this luxury hotel features a world-class spa, an elevated rooftop bar, and spacious rooms with unobstructed ocean vistas. Guests can enjoy sunrise over the Pacific Ocean and evening city lights—perfect for sailors and travelers seeking authentic Vancouver maritime experiences.
Take the SkyTrain to Waterfront Station, then walk about 10 minutes to reach Underway Sailing’s dock. Alternatively, board the SeaBus from Lonsdale Quay Station—just a 15-minute ride with scenic views of the British Columbia coastline. The area also features free bike rentals and multiple scenic walking trails, making it ideal for combining a short ride or stroll with your maritime adventure in Vancouver’s vibrant waterfront district.
Beyond standard cruises, try a sunset sail or night sky voyage for breathtaking views over Vancouver Harbour. Some vessels offer hands-on helming experiences, letting guests learn basic navigation skills. The Burrard Street Pier and Stanley Park feature designated photo spots perfect for capturing memorable shots with sails in the background. Local operators also host marine ecology tours, highlighting whale migration routes and intertidal zone wildlife, blending adventure with environmental education in one of Canada’s most scenic coastal settings.
Yes, Stanley Park adjacent to the dock offers expansive lawns, children’s playgrounds, and the Vancouver Aquarium, ideal for families. The park hosts interactive workshops like model boat crafting and marine trivia games. Nearby, seafood stalls and outdoor cafés serve fresh local catches such as salmon and oysters, perfect for a casual family meal. Just a 5-minute walk away is the Vancouver Children’s Museum, blending science and creativity to deliver engaging, educational fun for kids.
See what other travelers say about Underway Sailing

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Staying at the Fairmont Pacific Rim in Vancouver was an absolute delight from start to finish. The room offered breathtaking views of the city skyline and surrounding mountains—waking up to that panorama made every moment feel special. The modern, elegant design of the space felt luxurious without being overly flashy, and the bed was incredibly comfortable, ensuring a restful night's sleep. What truly stood out were the staff—every single one went above and beyond with warm smiles, genuine hospitality, and attentive service. Whether checking in, asking for recommendations, or needing assistance, they were always helpful and kind. The hotel also boasts three excellent dining options. Breakfast was abundant and delicious, while dinner at the on-site restaurant featured fresh, high-quality seafood and perfectly cooked steaks. With its prime location, top-tier amenities, and exceptional service, this is easily one of Vancouver’s finest hotels. I’ll definitely be returning.

This was my first visit to Vancouver, and I couldn’t have asked for a better start. The hotel is perfectly located—just a short walk from the city center and close to transit options. There are great Chinese restaurants right downstairs, which made dining super convenient. Special shoutout to Daniel from Korea and Xiao Wang from Xi’an at the front desk—both were incredibly friendly and helpful. Xiao Wang even took the time to draw me a personalized map showing local attractions and public transport routes. Her thoughtfulness really made me feel welcome. Even though the hotel was busy, the service remained warm and efficient. A fantastic stay with excellent value. I’ll definitely be back and highly recommend it to others.

Arriving at the hotel from the airport via SkyTrain was incredibly convenient—no transfers needed, and we were there in no time. The hotel’s location is perfect, right on a main street with a large shopping center just steps away, making dining and shopping super easy. There's also a taxi stand right outside, which made getting around hassle-free. We arrived at 10 a.m., and not only were we given an early check-in, but our room was upgraded too—so we could relax straight away without waiting. The facilities are excellent: a well-equipped gym, a lovely indoor pool, and everything you’d expect from a top-tier hotel. What really stood out was the bathroom—having a flexible showerhead that can be adjusted freely made washing hair so much easier. And the hairdryer? Not some tiny one that barely dries long hair—it actually works! I’ve already decided this will be my go-to hotel whenever I visit Vancouver again. A truly outstanding stay.

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