Dedication to Judy Gilligan

Get Involved

Anyone wishing information on joining a rowing group for one outing or on a regular basis should contact the Sooke Classical Boating Society:

Email us: [email protected]

Call Linda: (250) 216-2042

Call Dawn: (778) 686-8644

A group of people rowing a boat on a calm body of water surrounded by forested hills. They wear life jackets and sunglasses. The sun is shining, and the mood appears cheerful and relaxed.

Our boats have served thousands of participants over the years and are maintained by volunteers and the marina. The boats do require funds for maintenance so contributions to the Society are always welcome.

We row all year around unless deterred by heavy winds or rain. Watch the website for announcements about the status of the next outing.

Currently we have a Sunday and Monday morning outing at 9:00 am.

On Mondays we take sails out in one of the two boats for those interested in sailing.

Dedication to Judy Gilligan

How to Become a Member of the SCBS

Simply download and complete the 2-page SCBS membership/waiver form and submit it to the coxswain on arrival.

Dedication to Judy Gilligan

Who can row?

The Longboat Program is open to all those who can handle the oars – youth starting from approximately 13 years old and up. Senior members handle the oars and sails with relative ease and great skill. If you are in good health and reasonably fit, and would like to experience the west coast in a truly unique way, come down and join us!

Dedication to Judy Gilligan

What to expect

The longboats are propelled by 10 heavy but balanced oars, as well as by sails. Newcomers can be quickly and easily incorporated into the boat crew under the direction of the coxswain. Basic oar movement and commands are reviewed at each outing.

Once underway, wind conditions permitting, the sails are hoisted and the rowers can rest and enjoy the scenery of the Sooke Basin. Of course, when tacking is required all hands have tasks to perform, again under the direction of the coxswain who is in charge of the boat and responsible for the safety of its crew.

You should dress for the weather (layers, waterproof outerwear) keeping in mind that it is always cooler on the water. Lifejackets are mandatory and are supplied for all participants.

Dedication to Judy Gilligan

Location

Please show up a minimum of 15 minutes before the outing to sign in, put on life jackets and help prepare the boat. The location is Jenkins Marine at 2019 Kaltasin Road in Sooke. Turn across from Saseenos Elementary School. The entrance to the ship yard is at the bottom of the hill on the left. Please park on the side of the road.

Dedication to Judy Gilligan

What does it cost?

Currently the annual membership is $30. Each outing costs $15. (In your first year only, the first two outing fees you pay covers your membership.)

Dedication to Judy Gilligan

Come row with us!

If you'd like to try it out, we're happy to have you! Please email or call us, and we'll see you on the water soon!

Email us: [email protected]

Call Linda: (250) 216-2042

Call Dawn: (778) 686-8644

Book an Outing

The Sooke Classical Boating Society welcomes bookings for eligible groups.

To inquire about an outing on the longboats, please contact us:

Row with Us

Are you interested in joining our Society?

You can find all the required information here!

Location: Jenkins Marine at 2019 Kaltasin in Sooke

  • Mooring location
  • Parking instructions
  • Link to new member section
  • Info on booking an outing
Logo District of Sooke

We thank the District of Sooke for their support.

Footer

Logo of the Sooke Classical Boating Society. It features a drawing of a traditional sailboat with the text "T'Sou-ke" and "Doña Rosa" above it, encircled by a blue rope outline. The society's name is written below the boat in blue text.

We strive to provide a safe, inclusive, and respectful environment for all members and visitors to the longboats, recognizing the diverse identities of persons and the rights of all individuals to be treated with dignity and respect irrespective of their gender, race, sexual orientation, ability, ethnicity, religion, class, age, or national origin.

We respectfully acknowledge that we enjoy our activities on the unceded traditional territory of the T’Sou-ke First Nation of the Coast Salish peoples. We honor their enduring connection to this land and recognize their stewardship throughout history and into the future.