About Boat for Hope

Every summer since 1999, BC’s kids with special needs and their families have been welcomed aboard for Boat for Hope – an inclusive, one-day program and fundraiser in support of Variety – the Children’s Charity. What began as a local boating community initiative has grown into a cherished tradition, creating unforgettable memories for more than 10,000 children over 25 years.

Each June, 400+ children with disabilities and complex medical needs set sail on False Creek for a pirate-themed adventure, complete with marauding buccaneers, hidden treasures, and plenty of laughter. Families then gather at “Treasure Island” in Hastings Mill Park, where they enjoy an accessible festival with games, outdoor activities, live entertainment, and a community barbecue. In total, over a 1000 participants – children, siblings, caregivers, volunteers, and community supporters – come together in celebration.

Boat for Hope is more than a day of fun. It is a carefully designed inclusive program that removes barriers for children who often face isolation. Accessible shuttles, adaptive lifejackets, and the support of the RCMP, Canadian Coast Guard, and RCM-SAR ensure that every child can participate safely and with dignity.

The outcomes are profound:

· Children experience joy, belonging, and confidence in a barrier-free environment.

· Families find respite and connection, sharing the day with others who understand their journey.

· Over 200 volunteers and 20+ community partners model inclusion and strengthen community bonds.

· Funds raised support Variety’s year-round programs, providing medical equipment, therapies, and vital services across BC.

For the hundreds of kids who take part each year, Boat for Hope is not just an event — it is a transformative program of inclusion and celebration. And for those who attend, whether by land or sea, your heart will be forever changed.

Event Details

Date: June 13, 2026

Venue: Royal Vancouver Yacht Club,
3811 Point Grey Rd, Vancouver

The Raffle is now closed. Congratulations to our winner:

W. Yovanovich

BOAT RAFFLE

SILENT AUCTION

DONATE TO VARITY BC

Donate to variety BC

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Video Highlights

Treasure Island

Following the scheduled sailing, each family will be invited to join us at 'Treasure Island' for a barbeque in the park complete with entertainment, outdoor activities and games. When disembarking from your vessel, your 'Cruise Director' will deliver you personally to our land event where tents, tables and chairs will be provided to make it a comfortable and fun-filled afternoon for all.

Why Partner with Boat for Hope?

Sponsorship Package

Thank you to this year’s sponsors

Congratulations to our winner: W. Yovanovich (ticket number 110210)

Win a Boat Package!

Win a boat package from GA Checkpoint including:

2025 Highfield RU320 Air
2025 Yamaha F9.9SMHB
2025 Marlon trailer
Custom Boat for Hope UltraDeck KAILANI 20 cooler
(2) Mustang MIT100 Inflatable PFDs
Small Vessel Safety Kit & Mooring lines

Tickets are $20 each

Start Date: Friday, January 24, 2025

End Date: Monday, June 16, 2025 at 11:59pm

Draw Date: Tuesday, June 17, 2024 at 12:00 pm at Variety the Children's Charity, 4300 Still Creek Drive, Burnaby, BC

For additional questions, please contact boatforhope@variety.bc.ca

History

In 1999, James Safronek spoke with some of his close friends about a dream - of sharing his love of boating with children and their families who were not as fortunate as he was. James knew that experiencing the open water was something not everyone had an opportunity to do. It didn’t take long for these friends to put a plan put in place and Boat for Hope was born,

Every year we continue to bring many valued skippers, sponsors and volunteers together, many of whom support the event year after year. James’ vision of Boat for Hope continues and what started in Vancouver as an idea and dream has inspired others around the world to host similar events. We, as a committee, also take great pride in having raised over $3.5 million for Variety - the Children’s Charity here in BC.