ILRC Able Sail
ILRC Able Sail Programs
Our sailing programs offer facilities, equipment and support services to make sailing accessible for people of any ability. Our programs aim to allow consumers to develop the skills and experience to sail as independently as possible while minimizing the impact of their disability.
Anyone who wishes to sail must fill out a waiver form prior to sailing. Click below to download the waiver form
Leisure Sailing Program
Our most popular program is Leisure Sailing that provides individuals with the experience of sailing, under the safety and guidance of our instructors. We also offer group sailing to community groups or agencies that support people with disabilities. We are also continually looking to expand our program to include seniors with disabilities, as we recognize that disability impacts us all.
Community Partner Program
Our Community Partner Program offers recreational sailing to groups or agencies serving people with disabilities. Our programs are highly regarded as a safe, fun and therapeutic experience for persons of any age or ability.
ILRC Able Sail has been undertaking active campaigns in promoting our programs in the disability community of Manitoba. Our goal is to offer the unique experience and freedom of sailing to all Manitobans.
ILRC Able SailHours & Pricing
Hours of Operation
ILRC Able Sail operates over the summer months; July and August.
Booking Hours
If you wish to book a sail you can call the ILRC, Monday to Friday, 9:00am to 2:30pm at (204) 947-0194
Sailing Hours
Sailing is available in 2025 from July 3 to August 22, Tuesday to Saturday.
Sailing can be booked every half-hour between 9:00am and 3:00pm on a sailing day. The last slot available each day is 2:00pm to 3:00pm.
Pricing
Individual rate: Each sail costs $52.50 per hour. To pay for one or more hours of individual sailing please click on the button below.
Group rate (Three or more people is considered a group): Our group rate is $105.00 for one boat per hour. To pay for one or more hours of group sailing please click on the button below.
ILRC Able Sail Annual Membership: $525 - Membership includes as many sails as you want for the cost of your membership. To pay for your membership please click on the button below.
All prices include 5% GST
Cancellations and no-shows due to circumstances other than weather-related factors must be done 24 hours in advance.
Anyone who wishes to sail must fill out a waiver form prior to sailing. Click here to download the waiver form
ILRC Able SailAble Sail
Discover the Thrill of Sailing with ILRC Able Sail!
Come and experience one of the premiere accessible sailing organizations in Canada! ILRC Able Sail offers an exhilarating and fun activity for the whole family, maintaining a tradition of inclusive recreation for Manitobans of all ages and abilities. Learn to sail with a qualified instructor, or sit back, relax, and enjoy the ride while we take care of the sailing for you!
If you are trying out Able Sail for the first time, your first hour of sailing is on us!
Who We Are
ILRC Able Sail is a Winnipeg-based summer sailing program offered by the Independent Living Resource Centre. Founded, coordinated, and operated by people with disabilities and dedicated volunteers, we are committed to making sailing accessible for everyone.
Our Mission
Our mission is to provide Manitobans with disabilities the opportunity to access and enjoy sailing activities while promoting enhanced independence and community. We believe that the freedom of sailing is for everyone.
Transportation
Winnipeg Transit Plus offers convenient transportation directly to Fort Whyte Alive, making it easy for everyone to access and enjoy the Able Sail experience.
Our Facilities and Equipment
ILRC Able Sail operates out of the beautiful Fort Whyte Alive on Lake Devonian, alongside the Manitoba Sailing Association. Our facilities include:
- Accessible Docks and Washrooms
- Lift & transfer device for easy access into and out of the boats.
- An accessible tiller located at the front of the boat for steering
Our Boats
Our untippable, unsinkable Martin 16 sailboats are designed for safety and stability:
- A weighted keel that makes the boat stable and uncapsizable
- Floatation foam within the hull which keeps the boat afloat even if punctured
- A self-tacking jib frees the sailor from heavy line hauling
- A second seat provides room for a sailing instructor or qualified sailing companion
Why Choose Us?
- Inclusive Sailing Opportunities: We welcome Manitobans of all abilities, ages, and economic backgrounds.
- Unforgettable Experiences: Enjoy social, recreational, rehabilitative, and competitive sailing activities.
- Confidence Building: Our program helps build confidence, self-esteem, and independence for people with mobility or other impairments.
Join Us!
Quality staff and volunteers are here throughout the boating season to support you in your sailing experience. With many other great attractions and activities at Fort Whyte Alive, your visit will be packed with fun and adventure. Come feel the rush and make this a summer you won’t forget!
For more information on our sailing programs and bookings, or for concerns regarding transportation, please contact us at (204) 947-0194 or email us at ablesail@ilrc.mb.ca.
ILRC Able Sail, Research And Development