DOCKING & ANCHORING
Skills Every Boater Should Master
Docking with Confidence
- Approaching and leaving the dock smoothly
- Handling wind from different directions
- Using spring lines and fenders properly
- Avoiding damage to your boat
- Handling tight spaces and busy marinas
- Improving boat control and slow speed manoeuvring
Perfect for: New boaters and anyone who wants to dock with greater confidence and less stress.
Duration: 2-4 hours
Self-study lesson: At your own pace
Hands-on lesson: Weekends 9-11 AM
Price: $350 tax-free per student
Anchoring with Assurance
- Selecting the right anchor and rode/rope for your boat and seabed
- Planning for wind, current and depth
- Dropping and setting anchor and confirm it’s holding
- How to manage dragging, resets and emergency anchoring
- Retrieving your anchor safely without fouling or damaging gear
Perfect for: New boaters or anyone who wants to feel more secure when anchoring a boat.
Duration: 2-4 hours
Self-study lesson: At your own pace
Hands-on lesson: Weekends 9-11 AM
Price: $350 tax-free per student
STRENGTHEN YOUR SKILLS
Take Your Boating Skills Beyond the Classroom
Start with an online CanBoat course to learn the fundamentals of docking or anchoring. Then, put your knowledge into practice with hands-on instruction from an experienced, licensed C-Tow Captain.
Practise essential techniques, get expert guidance, and gain confidence handling a boat in real-world conditions.
Learn the skills online. Put them into practice on the water.
Prepare Online
Complete your self-study CanBoat course at your own pace. Learn the fundamentals and arrive ready for practical instruction.
Practise With a Captain
Meet your licensed C-Tow Captain at a participating BC marina. Get hands-on guidance as you practise docking or anchoring techniques.
Build Confidence
Apply what you’ve learned, ask questions, and develop practical skills to help you handle your boat more safely and confidently.
WHY IT MATTERS?
Protect Your Crew and Boat
Your passengers, the boat, and your peace of mind — protected with practical safety skills that truly matter.
For just $350 and a few hours, you’ll gain boating knowledge for real-life situations — without stress, hesitation, or second-guessing.
ABOUT
On-Water Lessons
Locations and Time
We currently offer on-water lessons at three marinas: Garden Bay in Pender Harbour, Lynwood in North Vancouver, and Oak Bay in Victoria. From 9-11 AM on Saturday and Sunday.
PCOC Required
Bring your Pleasure Craft Operator Card (PCOC) for on-water lessons.
Your instructor will want to see your card.
Lifejackets Are a Must
Please bring your own properly fitted lifejacket or personal floatation device (PFD) to wear during the on-water lesson.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you have a question that isn’t covered, submit an email HERE.
What is included in the $350 lesson fee?
This fee includes the online course and the 1-2 hour on-water lesson with a Captain. The total cost is $350 (tax-free) for each topic.
Is the online course required?
Yes. You must complete a short 1-2 hour online, self-study CanBoat session prior to the on-water training.
How long is the on-water lesson?
Students can expect 1-2 hours of on-water training. The class is limited to four participants. Minimum participants is one.
If only one student, the lesson will be 1 hour. If two-four students, the lesson will be 2 hours to ensure everyone has time to practice.
When should I arrive?
Please arrive 30 minutes before your scheduled on-water lesson. Don’t forget to bring a lifejacket/PFD.
Can I reschedule my on-water lesson?
Yes. Requests must be submitted at least 48 hours before your lesson. No rescheduling or refunds are permitted with less than 48 hours notice.
Email us HERE to reschedule.
What happens if the weather is bad?
For weather or safety concerns, your Captain will notify you at least 3 hours before the lesson. You can reschedule for the next available opportunity.
Does this course cover sailboat docking?
This course teaches boaters how to dock motorized boats and does not cover sailboats docking under sail alone. For sailors, CanBoat offers a theory course focused on sailing.
Will I really learn from a Captain?
Yes. Each C-Tow Captain is Transport Canada trained and licensed. They are seasoned marine experts in their local community, fully conversant with local waterways and a variety of marine conditions.
Will other locations be available?
Yes. We have plans to expand this program in 2027. Subscribe to our newsletter for dates and announcements.