Welcome to the Outer Harbour Sailing Federation
The Outer Harbour Sailing Federation (OHSF) represents eight community sailing clubs and two youth camps near Cherry Beach along Toronto’s Outer Harbour. For over 50 years, OHSF has provided affordable, inclusive, and environmentally responsible access to sailing, windsurfing, kayaking, and other water sports for Torontonians of all backgrounds.
Join a Club Subscribe Contact Us
OHSF is a group of not-for-profit, volunteer-run organizations focused on equitable, low-impact public access to the waterfront. Our clubs are unique in Canada, offering low-cost, volunteer-driven water recreation without relying on public funding. We welcome new Canadians, visible minorities, LGBTQ+ individuals, children from low-income families, and anyone interested in learning to sail or enjoy water sports, regardless of experience.
About OHSF
Representing over 2,000 members, OHSF’s eight cooperative clubs and two youth camps deliver safe, inclusive, and affordable opportunities for sailing, windsurfing, kayaking, and more. Most clubs do not require boat ownership—members share club boats and can access seasonal programs, including “learn to sail” courses for all skill levels. Many clubs offer CanSail-certified programming to ensure safety and skill-building for all ages and experience levels.
We host open house days, regattas, social events, and environmental cleanups to welcome the broader community and encourage public participation. Our clubs are known for their friendly, supportive atmosphere and commitment to making water sports accessible to everyone.
Public Access & Affordability
Thanks to our cooperative, volunteer-driven model, membership fees start as low as $75/year (social), far less than private yacht clubs. Shared boats and dry storage keep costs low and maximize access, while our clubs regularly open their doors to the public through free events and races.
OHSF’s direct access to the waterfront, with boats stored on land and launched via floating docks, makes it easy for members to securely enjoy the lake regularly. Our model is recognized internationally for its scale, diversity, and inclusivity.
Youth & Community Programs
Our No-Fare Youth Sailing Camp and Outer Harbour Sailing Camp provide free or low-cost summer sailing instruction to over 300 children each year, many from underserved communities, through partnerships like the Level the Playing Field program. Our Camps help develop skills, confidence, and a lifelong love of water sports.
Environmental Stewardship
OHSF and its clubs are committed to protecting Toronto’s waterfront. We partner with organizations like Toronto Nature Stewards to remove invasive species and maintain natural areas while our dry storage and high-use turnover minimize environmental impact.
Our Vision for the Future
OHSF has partnered with the City of Toronto for over 50 years and seeks to continue this as waterfront developments evolve. We prioritize public access, affordable programming, safety, and sail craft storage for all Torontonians who join, ensuring future generations can connect with nature and enjoy healthy outdoor living.
How to Join
Prospective members are encouraged to visit during spring open houses, meet club members, and learn more about our programs. Memberships are available at each club. Visit our websites or attend an open house to get started!
OHSF clubs offer a unique, low-cost, high-impact model for public waterfront use. They connect people to the water, build community, and promote active, outdoor lifestyles for all.
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.