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About the school
Welcome to Topmast Maritime Training in Kingston, Ontario, one of the few RYA Training Centres in North America. Led by Fintan Harnett, with over 20 years of experience, we offer the full RYA pathway from beginner courses to Yachtmaster Ocean. You'll learn amidst the beautiful 1000 Islands and St. Lawrence River, considered Ontario's finest cruising area.
The location
Kingston, situated at the eastern end of Lake Ontario where it meets the St. Lawrence River, provides an exceptional freshwater sailing environment, renowned for access to the scenic Thousand Islands. The area offers a great combination of open lake sailing and more sheltered island cruising, perfect for developing a wide range of sailing skills.
How to get there
For international travellers, Ottawa Macdonald-Cartier International Airport (YOW) is a significant gateway, located about 160 km northeast of Kingston. From Ottawa, renting a car is a common option for the drive. Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ) is another major hub, though it's further, approximately 260 km to the west; from Toronto, you can drive or take a VIA Rail train to Kingston.
Best time to go
August is often considered the best month for sailing in Kingston, as the summer weather is typically warm with average highs around 24°C, and the humidity is comfortable. Prevailing southwesterly winds provide steady breezes ideal for sailing, and the lake water reaches its warmest temperatures, making it pleasant for any on-water activities.
