Overview
The Vancouver Rowing Club was formed in 1886 as the Vancouver Boating Club and calls itself the city's oldest amateur sporting organisation. Its heritage clubhouse of 1911 stands on piles in the northwest corner of Coal Harbour at the edge of Stanley Park, looking across at the downtown skyline; the original clubhouse was floated here from the south side of the harbour in 1905. Today the club has rowing, yachting, rugby and field hockey sections. About 200 rowers train in a modern fleet of shells, from Learn-To-Row and recreational rowing up to crews that have represented Canada at the Olympic, Pan American and Commonwealth Games, and the yachting section cruises and races from the club's own marina.
- Founded
- 1886
- Federation
- Rowing Canada Aviron
- Phone
- +1 604 687 3400
On the water with VesselSOS
- Family see you from shoreA live link in any browser – they don’t need the app.
- One tap to the right rescue centreHere JRCC Victoria – the app switches centre as you move, with your position and call script even without signal.
- Return-time checkIf you’re not back in time, your people know.
- Shared hazard mapRocks, nets and other hazards reported by other boaters.
Regattas and series
Run or hosted by the club, per the club website. Dates and notices are on the club site.
- Sailpastyachting section season-opening sailpast
- Intersectional Regatta
Live map, a start clock on every phone and results — when the club runs a race on VesselSOS Racing, it shows up here. Racing is a pilot with clubs for the 2027 season.
No race running right nowSee VesselSOS RacingSailing school and courses
History and achievements
- 1886Formed as the Vancouver Boating Club
- 1905The original clubhouse is moved from the south side of the harbour to the present site
- 1911The present clubhouse is built
- 1990The clubhouse receives City of Vancouver heritage designation
Home harbour & location
- Position
- 49°17.80′ N 123°8.05′ W
49.29671, -123.13421 - Address
- 450 Stanley Park Drive
Frequently asked
Can I learn to sail here?
Yes. The club lists these courses: Learn-To-Row and Recreational rowing.
Who do I call in an emergency at sea here?
Sea rescue: JRCC Victoria +1 250-413-8933. Or call 911. On the radio: MAYDAY on VHF channel 16.
When was Vancouver Rowing Club founded?
In 1886.
Which regattas does the club run?
According to the club website, among others: Sailpast and Intersectional Regatta.