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

Staying at Granville Island Hotel was an absolute highlight of my Vancouver trip. As the only hotel on the island, it offers a truly unique and memorable experience. The location is perfect—right in the heart of Granville Island’s vibrant atmosphere, surrounded by art studios, local markets, and amazing eateries. Walking distance to everything you’d want to see and do, yet still feels peaceful and secluded. The view from the room is breathtaking—open windows reveal stunning waterfront scenery with glimpses of the city skyline and passing boats. It’s rare to find such charm and convenience in one place. I loved every moment, and this stay definitely stands out as one of the best in my travels. Highly recommend for anyone visiting Vancouver.

Staying at this hotel was an absolute delight! The location is unbeatable—everything you'd want in downtown Vancouver is just a short walk away, from iconic sights to bustling shopping areas. There are countless restaurants nearby offering diverse cuisines, so dinner options are never a problem. The breakfast buffet is generous and well-balanced, with fresh ingredients and a variety of choices that cater to different tastes. Plus, the room views are stunning—overlooking the city skyline, especially beautiful during sunset. Clean, modern, and thoughtfully designed, this place truly delivers on comfort and convenience. I’d definitely recommend it to anyone visiting Vancouver.

Staying at the Best Western Plus Sands in Vancouver was an absolute delight. The bed was incredibly comfortable, making for a restful night’s sleep, and the entire hotel felt spotlessly clean—every corner looked well-maintained. What really stood out was the location: just a short walk from English Bay, perfect for strolling along the waterfront, enjoying the sunset, or taking in the lively atmosphere of the area. There are plenty of great dining options nearby, ranging from casual cafes to more upscale restaurants, so you’re never far from a good meal. Public transit access is also convenient, making it easy to explore the city. For travelers looking for comfort, cleanliness, and a prime location without breaking the bank, this hotel is a top choice. I’d definitely stay here again.

Staying here for six nights was an absolute delight! The location is incredibly convenient—just a short subway ride to downtown Vancouver, with plenty of restaurants and shops within walking distance. The room itself is spacious and well-designed, offering a comfortable stay with excellent lighting and modern furnishings. I especially appreciated having a small kitchenette; it made preparing simple meals easy and saved money on dining out. Cleanliness was top-notch—the entire room felt fresh and hygienic throughout my stay, with no signs of wear or neglect. For the price, this hotel offers incredible value for money. If I ever return to Vancouver, Century Plaza Hotel will be my first choice again. Highly recommend for both business and leisure travelers looking for comfort, convenience, and quality.

Staying at this Holiday Inn & Suites in Vancouver Downtown was an absolute highlight of my trip. The location is unbeatable—just a short walk from all the major downtown attractions, and public transit is super convenient. I loved how many great restaurants were within steps of the hotel, making dinner plans effortless. What really stood out to me was the value for money—given how pricey hotels can be in Vancouver, this place offers excellent quality without breaking the bank. Clean rooms, friendly staff, and a comfortable stay overall. It’s definitely one of the best options for travelers who want convenience and affordability in the heart of the city.

The Sylvia Hotel is an outstanding value choice in downtown Vancouver, perfectly located just a short walk from English Bay and within easy reach of Stanley Park. The atmosphere is welcoming and timeless—there’s a real sense of history throughout the property, from the elegant lobby to the well-maintained rooms. Each room feels thoughtfully designed with modern comforts while preserving its vintage charm. The staff are professional, courteous, and genuinely attentive without being intrusive. From check-in to checkout, the service felt seamless and warm. The bed was incredibly comfortable, making for a restful night’s sleep, and the quiet location made it easy to unwind after a day exploring the city. It’s rare to find such a well-balanced blend of character, comfort, and convenience in this price range. I’d absolutely stay here again and highly recommend it to anyone visiting Vancouver.

Staying at Suite Smart Vancouver was an absolute delight from start to finish. The moment you walk in, the modern design and thoughtful touches instantly impress—then it hits you again the next morning when you step out onto your bedroom balcony and take in the stunning view. The room blends luxury with comfort perfectly, and the hosts made us feel truly welcome with a personal touch that felt genuine and warm. Having a rooftop terrace and an indoor pool on-site is such a rare and welcome bonus—something you wouldn’t expect in this kind of stay. The neighborhood itself is peaceful, lush, and upscale, with great dining options and boutique shops just a short stroll away. It’s also super convenient for getting around town via public transit. This place truly delivers beyond expectations—highly recommend for anyone looking for a stylish, relaxing, and well-located retreat in Vancouver.

Staying at this hotel was an absolute delight! The spacious living area features a balcony perfect for relaxing with a morning coffee, and the long sofa is super comfy. Everything you'd need is included—fridge, microwave, coffee maker—making it easy to prepare meals during your stay. Location-wise, it's incredibly convenient. After arriving from the airport via Canada Line, we initially walked 500 meters uphill, but soon realized that taking one extra stop and switching to a bus just across the intersection made the journey much easier. Plus, transferring from the metro to the bus is free with your airport transit pass, and our day pass made everything even more seamless. Whether you're here for business or leisure, the combination of comfort, amenities, and smart location makes this a top choice. Highly recommend!

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.

The location is fantastic—right next to 24-hour grocery stores, restaurants, and shopping centers, so everything you need is just a short walk away. I arrived in Vancouver wearing only summer clothes and ended up freezing, but luckily there was a big goose shop right outside the hotel where I picked up a warm jacket. I even got a playful comment from a friendly American lady at the front desk—who joked that only Chinese travelers would go for something like that! Funny moment. Getting to the hotel from the airport took about $50 CAD by taxi (I gave a round tip, so no need to worry about the meter), while Uber was around $20–$25 CAD—reasonable for the convenience. The room itself is clean and well-maintained, which is perfect for someone with mild cleanliness OCD—the bedding felt crisp and fresh. Breakfast was… not my favorite. One meal was enough—I actually felt nauseous thinking about it afterward, and I’d say it’s the weakest breakfast I’ve had across all countries I’ve visited. But hey, plenty of other guests seemed to enjoy it, so it’s definitely subjective. Safety-wise, the hotel feels secure and quiet. Minor issue: the front desk isn’t very visible, and the back entrance is locked, so first-time visitors might get confused trying to find their way in. Overall? Absolutely recommend. Great value, excellent location, and a solid stay despite a few small quirks.

Staying at this spacious three-bedroom condo in downtown Vancouver was an absolute delight. The location couldn’t be better—just steps from a large Chinese supermarket where we could easily grab everything we needed. The unit was spotless, bright, and well-organized, with plenty of room for our group of three women—each of us had our own private bedroom, making the stay incredibly comfortable. Even with two couples and kids, there’d still be enough space. The fully equipped kitchen made it easy to cook meals, perfect for longer stays or settling in like locals. What really stood out was the host—a friendly, responsible Chinese gentleman who went above and beyond. He kept in touch via WeChat throughout our trip, offering helpful tips and guidance. On checkout day, he even drove us personally to the cruise terminal—such thoughtful service! This place is ideal for families, friends, or anyone looking for comfort, convenience, and great value. I’ll definitely book here again on my next visit to Vancouver.

The stay at Rosedale Condominiums was excellent! From the moment I arrived, everything felt welcoming and well-organized. The location is fantastic—just a short walk from public transit, making it easy to explore downtown Vancouver. The apartment was clean, spacious, and had all the essentials, including a fully equipped kitchen. The bed was super comfortable, and I slept like a baby. The staff were friendly and helpful, offering great local tips. I especially appreciated the reliable Wi-Fi and quiet surroundings. Overall, this place offers amazing value for money. I’d definitely book again and recommend it to anyone visiting Vancouver.
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