Our vision is for Vancouver's marine environment to be treasured as a place for non-motorized watercraft experiences for all.
Non-motorized watercraft launch by-law update
No person shall launch or recover a surfboard, windsurfer, canoe, standup paddleboard, or any other type of non-powered watercraft on a beach except in areas that are designated for launch and recovery by the General Manager.
As part of the On Water Strategy PDF file (1.9 MB), from 2021 to 2023 we piloted 4 access points for non-motorized watercrafts on some Vancouver beaches. The pilot aimed to encourage and manage the safe use of non-motorized watercraft in Vancouver’s waters. It ran from the Victoria Day long weekend to the Labour Day long weekend, between 11:30am and 8:30pm.
After feedback on the pilot from both the public non-motorized watercraft users and the lifeguards, we have now formally designated the below launch sites moving forward:
- Kitsilano PDF file (277 KB)
- Spanish Banks West PDF file (220 KB)
- Spanish Banks East PDF file (263 KB)
- Sunset PDF file (238 KB)
Non-motorized watercraft activities by location
On-water recreation activities involve a small watercraft powered by people or natural elements.
| Times | Locations | Sports |
|---|---|---|
| 11:30am to 8:30pm |
|
|
| Noon to 7pm | Spanish Banks East | Kite surfing and boarding |
Note Access is unregulated outside of these dates and times at these locations.
** The Sunset Beach launch location has strong currents and busy boat traffic. It is not recommended for novice users. Consider Kits Beach or Spanish Banks East or West as alternative launch sites.
Black and white quartered flags and temporary beach signs indicate the designated launch and recovery access areas.
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