About Us
At Apex Sailing, we are passionate about sharing the thrill of sailing with others. Founded by two lifelong sailing enthusiasts, Apex Sailing offers world-class sailing programs designed to teach you the skills to master the water, whether you’re looking to simply enjoy the beauty of the open sea or take your passion further into the exciting world of competitive racing.
About Us
At Apex Sailing, we are passionate about sharing the thrill of sailing with others. Founded by two lifelong sailing enthusiasts, Apex Sailing offers world-class sailing programs designed to teach you the skills to master the water, whether you’re looking to simply enjoy the beauty of the open water or take your passion further into the exciting world of competitive racing.
Our Approach to Sailing Education
We focus on hands-on, practical learning that builds confidence and competence. Our instructors, Ilya and Adam, are deeply committed to making sure every student enjoys their time on the water while learning essential skills at their own pace. Whether you’re taking your first step into sailing or preparing to race competitively, we offer a welcoming and supportive environment where learning is fun, challenging, and always rewarding.
Adam Goarley
Co-Founder & Lead Instructor
Adam’s love for sailing started at age 11, when he took his first sailing lesson. After years of learning, Adam transitioned to racing and spent weekends travelling all over Ontario with his race team. Over the next 6 years, he helped teach sailing, sharing his passion with others. Adam later bought a 24-foot sailboat and explored nearly all of the Great Lakes, sailing through Ontario and across the USA. His adventure continued with the purchase of a 40-foot sailboat, which he now uses for cruising. Adam’s experience extends beyond recreational sailing, as he has raced on keelboats—including a race in the Caribbean—and has developed a keen understanding of the intricacies of both casual and competitive sailing. His wealth of knowledge and patient, hands-on teaching style make him a dedicated and inspiring instructor.
Ilya M
Co-Founder & Lead Instructor
Ilya, originally from Ukraine, discovered his passion for sailing at a young age. He quickly progressed through the ranks, eventually racing for the Ukrainian national team in the highly competitive Olympic-class 470 sailboat. Ilya’s extensive racing experience spans across Europe, where he competed in numerous prestigious regattas. After moving to Canada, Ilya reentered the sailing world by becoming a sailing instructor and later, a race coach at a local sailing club. His enthusiasm for teaching and dedication to helping others excel in the sport is contagious. With his rich international racing background and deep technical knowledge, Ilya is committed to ensuring that his students gain the skills, confidence, and passion needed to succeed on the water. Whether you’re learning to sail for the first time or preparing for your next race, Ilya’s expertise will guide you every step of the way.
What You'll Be Sailing
Get ready to set sail on a J/24 sailboat, one of the most popular and versatile keelboats in the world. Known for its stability, speed, and responsive handling, the J/24 is perfect for both beginners and experienced sailors looking to refine their skills.
Our Mission
Our mission is to provide an immersive and unforgettable sailing experience that caters to all levels of experience. From beginners learning the ropes to advanced sailors looking to sharpen their racing skills, Apex Sailing ensures each program is customized to meet your needs, helping you grow both as a sailor and as a person.
From Racing to Exploring – Our Journey on the Water
At Apex Sailing, we don’t just teach sailing—we live it. Our passion for being on the water extends beyond racing and instruction to long-distance cruising and adventure sailing. Adam, co-founder of Apex Sailing, owns a 37-foot cruising sailboat designed for extended offshore journeys, offering a perfect platform for tackling ambitious voyages across the Great Lakes.
Over the years, we’ve embarked on incredible sailing expeditions, navigating diverse waters and challenging conditions. Some of our most memorable journeys include:
- Whitby to Sarnia (200+ Nautical Miles)
One of our most demanding and rewarding trips, this voyage took us from Whitby, Ontario, across Lake Ontario, through the Welland Canal, and into Lake Erie—where we faced heavy weather conditions. We continued through the shallow waters of Lake St. Clair and up the St. Clair River, testing our navigation skills in ever-changing conditions.
- North Channel Expeditions (500+ Nautical Mile Trips)
Sailing from Bayfield, Ontario, we’ve completed multiple extended journeys to the stunning North Channel, one of the most breathtaking cruising destinations in North America. These trips have taken us through remote anchorages, rugged islands, and crystal-clear waters, where we’ve experienced everything from peaceful sunsets to high-wind crossings.
From Racing to Exploring – Our Journey on the Water
At Apex Sailing, we don’t just teach sailing—we live it. Our passion for being on the water extends beyond racing and instruction to long-distance cruising and adventure sailing. Adam, co-founder of Apex Sailing, owns a 37-foot cruising sailboat designed for extended offshore journeys, offering a perfect platform for tackling ambitious voyages across the Great Lakes.
Over the years, we’ve embarked on incredible sailing expeditions, navigating diverse waters and challenging conditions. Some of our most memorable journeys include:
Over the years, we’ve embarked on incredible sailing expeditions, navigating diverse waters and challenging conditions. Some of our most memorable journeys include:
- Whitby to Sarnia (200+ Nautical Miles)
One of our most demanding and rewarding trips, this voyage took us from Whitby, Ontario, across Lake Ontario, through the Welland Canal, and into Lake Erie—where we faced heavy weather conditions. We continued through the shallow waters of Lake St. Clair and up the St. Clair River, testing our navigation skills in ever-changing conditions.
- North Channel Expeditions (500+ Nautical Mile Trips)
Sailing from Bayfield, Ontario, we’ve completed multiple extended journeys to the stunning North Channel, one of the most breathtaking cruising destinations in North America. These trips have taken us through remote anchorages, rugged islands, and crystal-clear waters, where we’ve experienced everything from peaceful sunsets to high-wind crossings.