Berkana Ventures Sailing School and Expeditions in British Columbia

Frequently Asked Questions

Question Topics:

Q: What routes are we likely to take?

A1 : Based in Vancouver, the first and last day of the courses will be crossing the Strait of Georgia . We will spend most of the time in the Northern Gulf Islands . These islands and passes provide navigational challenges and usually adequate wind.

A2: Based in Ucluelet we will be exploring Barclay Sound with an overnight in Bamfield. There are many beautiful anchorages and islands to visit. On the ocean we will be subject to the swells from the Pacific.

Q: What will the weather be like?

A: Normally during the summer months the weather is sunny, however temperatures on the water are always less than ashore. Generally the weather inside Vancouver Island is fairly benign and forgiving. In Barclay Sound the weather and sailing is more challenging.

Q: What supplies are on the boat?

A: The boat comes well supplied for the trip with a Canada Coastguard Safety Certificate, lifejackets, dry goods, dishes and cutlery, cooking equipment, adequate water and diesel fuel, extensive toolkit and spare parts.

Q: What clothes should I bring?

A: Planning ahead will make your cruise successful. With limited space you should bring layers and a variety of clothes.

Must Bring: swimwear, shade hat, sunglasses, deck shoes, deck boots, jacket, pair of slacks, shorts, gloves, towel, sou'wester or wool hat, foul weather gear, sweater, small personal flashlight, sleeping bag, plenty of sunblock ( even with clouds, the reflected sun can cause severe burns)

Q: Is the boat provisioned?

A: Yes. The boat is fully provisioned for the duration of the trip. The meals are excellent and since a course requirement is for full galley participation, they may be as exotic as your imagination.

We will probably eat out on the last night after the quiz to celebrate.

Special diets can be discussed before the cruise and we are happy to provide these items.

Q: Will we be anchoring or tying up at marinas overnight?

A: We will normally be tying up at a marina two times during the week to have chance for a shower and a walk. A dinghy is carried on the boat so that even while anchored we can go ashore to explore .

Q: Can we bring alcoholic beverages?

A: Sure. This is probably part of your vacation, and we intend that you fully enjoy it. The ship's standing orders are that no alcohol is consumed while underway. Once we are anchored or tied up at the marina you are welcome to have a drink.

Q: When will I receive my study materials?

A: We will provide the study materials either by delivery or mail at least two weeks before your course. We do recommend that you read the materials before the cruise.

Q: Where can I park?

A: Parking is difficult and expensive for a week. A cab or calling in a favour from a friend is probably the best way to solve this.

Q: Will Berkana Ventures deliver my boat to my cruising destination? How about my family members or pet?

A: Yes! Berkana Ventures is available for deliveries of all types. Rates are $350 per day plus return fare in Southwest BC. Please contact us for offshore rates.

Q: Are offshore courses/expeditions available?

A: Yes! In 2008 we our running our next CYA Offshore Courses to Hawaii and back. Outbound in June and homeward bound to British Columbia in July. Our last long distance Offshore Course was a great success, and, for those contemplating a significant deep water passage at some time, was the ideal way to get a real taste of an extended voyage. The grandeur and challenges of the open ocean coupled with the trials and tribulations of living in a small space gave the crew a great experience.