The Outer Harbour Sailing Federation (OHSF) represents eight community sailing clubs and two youth sailing camps along Toronto’s Outer Harbour. For over 50 years, OHSF has provided affordable access to sailing, rowing, windsurfing, paddling, and other water sports. The clubs are cooperative, non-profit, and community-run, keeping fees low to welcome people from all backgrounds, especially those with little or no sailing experience.
OHSF is a unique grassroots organization in Canada, offering low-cost, volunteer-driven water recreation without relying on public funding. The diverse community includes new Canadians, visible minorities, LGBTQ+ individuals, and families. Visitors from the U.S. and Europe often admire the scale and inclusivity of the OHSF community.
The clubs offer direct access to Toronto’s waterfront, with boats stored on land and launched via short hauling distances and floating docks. This setup makes it easy for members to enjoy the water regularly.
Key Benefits of the OHSF:
- Affordable and Accessible: The OHSF offers an affordable entry to sailing with no need to own a boat at most clubs. Instruction, boat storage, and various programs are available cheaply, making the sport accessible to many participants.
- Inclusive Community: OHSF clubs foster a welcoming environment for a diverse group of people, including newcomers and those from underrepresented communities. This inclusivity creates a supportive space for learning and connection.
- Sailing Programs: The clubs offer a range of sailing courses for adults, from beginner to advanced levels. Members also enjoy mentorship, racing instruction, and social activities—all supported by volunteers. The OHSF hosts regular regattas, including the popular Friday night Albacore series.
- Youth Camps: The Outer Harbour Sailing Camp (OHSC) provides sailing instruction to nearly 300 children each year, with many participants coming from local community organizations at no cost through the Level the Playing Field (LPF) program.
- Volunteer-Driven: The OHSF operates with the help of volunteers, who maintain boats, organize races, and run social events, fostering a strong sense of community and shared responsibility.
- Environmental Stewardship: The clubs work with organizations like Toronto Nature Stewards to remove invasive species and help maintain the natural environment around the waterfront.
- Waterfront Access: The clubs’ locations provide easy access to the water, allowing members to enjoy sailing, rowing, and other water activities regularly.
- International Recognition: OHSF’s unique community model, inclusive approach, and affordable offerings are recognized by sailing enthusiasts globally.
How to Join:
Prospective members can visit the clubs during spring open houses to explore the facilities, meet members, and learn more. Memberships are available at each club; more details can be found on individual club websites.
In summary, the Outer Harbour Sailing Federation offers an affordable, inclusive, and community-focused approach to water recreation. Its volunteer-driven model, extensive programs, and environmental stewardship make it a vital part of Toronto’s waterfront and a welcoming place for everyone to experience sailing.
Acknowledging the Local Indigenous Presence
We acknowledge that the waters and land we occupy are the traditional territory of many nations, including the Mississaugas of the Credit, the Anishnabeg, the Chippewa, the Haudenosaunee, and the Wendat peoples. Today, Toronto has many diverse First Nations, Inuit, and Métis communities. We respect our responsibilities to these communities and our shared treaties. Learn more opens in a new window
Note
We are unaffiliated with PortsToronto’s Outer Harbour Marina (OHM), our similarly named neighbour across the harbour.
