It is a charitable, membership-type organization, incorporated under the Companies Act of Canada. Except for a small, paid staff - all teaching and administrative work is done by volunteers. CPS is non-governmental, non-regulatory and non-military. It is not restricted to boat owners, nor owners of large yachts. Purely and simply, it is a dedicated group interested in increasing safety and pleasure on the waterways, through education

Cowichan Power and Sail Squadron was formed in 1959 as a part of Vancouver Island District of the Canadian Power and Sail Squadrons.  In 1996 it became part of the newly formed Vancouver Island North District which consists of ten squadrons from the Malahat to Port Hardy and Powell River.  Geographically the Squadron serves an area from Mill Bay, B.C. to Crofton, B.C. including the Duncan area, Cobble Hill, Shawnigan Lake and Lake Cowichan.   Membership of the Squadron is approximately 270 members. 

The Squadron Bridge meets on the second Wednesday of the month at the Maple Bay Yacht Club.  The election of the new Bridge is held at our Annual General Meeting on the fourth Wednesday of April.  Those Squadron members who have served on committees or as instructors or proctors are awarded Merit Marks at this time for their efforts.  All members are encouraged to participate at the Bridge Meetings which start at 1900 hours.

In keeping with the Canadian Power and Sail Squadron's purpose of "Training the Recreational Boater",  Boating Courses are offered at the Island Savings Centre, Duncan,  Shawnigan Lake School and the Shawnigan Lake Community Centre.  Various Advanced and Elective Courses are offered depending on the demand.

In an effort to encourage sustaining membership and serve those members who are not interested in additional courses an active social program is offered.  Fall and Spring Graduations and a Christmas Dinner Dance are held by our Social Committee.  Our Cruise Master Rendezvous in the summer to foster comradeship.  Special Members Nights are held to cover timely topics of interest to boaters.  Further information on these events can be found in our publication the "Sea Breeze", elsewhere on this site, or by contacting the Cruise Master or Social Convener.

The Squadron is run by its members and their volunteer efforts.  We never have enough volunteers and can always find a job for you.  Don't wait to be contacted, pick up the phone and call the Commander or Training Officer and contribute your efforts to our success.

Membership  Completing our BOATING course and passing the exam allows you to join Cowichan Power and Sail Squadron.  Family members must also have successfully completed the Boating exam to be awarded membership rights.  A Boating course graduate under the age of 18 is granted a Junior membership and pays no dues.  An associate membership is also available to those who have successfully completed our BOAT PRO course. 

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