Please note: Due to COVID-19, we are currently unable to offer all programs. However, we are gradually reopening the Peter Gilgan Family YMCA. For more information, please see our Reactivation.
Jump in and discover why everyone from infants to seniors can benefit from being active in the water!
Through swim lessons, aquatic fitness classes, and other programs, YMCA Aquatics offers you and your family many ways to make a splash. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced swimmer, you can gain the skills and confidence you need to stay safe and enjoy the pool. The YMCA has been offering swimming lessons to Canadians since the 1900s. Thousands of Canadians have learned to swim at the Y. Dive into our aquatics program to find the one that’s right for you and your family.
Swim Lessons Knowing how to swim can save your life — or even someone else’s. Taught by certified YMCA instructors, our swimming lessons develop lifelong skills that help your child to be safe in and around the water.
Aquatic Specialty From water sports to swim clubs, YMCA Aquatic Specialty programs bring swimmers together for organized activities in the water. Whether you’re new to the pool or looking for some friendly competition, our programs will keep you moving and having fun.
Aquatic Certifications Open the door to employment and volunteer possibilities through our YMCA Aquatic Certifications programs. Certification as a lifeguard or swimming instructor can lead to employment opportunities at the YMCA and elsewhere. You’ll also develop leadership skills that can have a profound impact on your future success.
Pool toys and pool water features may be used during this time. For pool availability, please refer to the Schedule.
Main Pool Public Swim
All ages welcome.
All children under the age of 6 must be accompanied by an adult 16+ years. Unsupervised children more than 6 years must complete a swim test for access to the main pool. For pool availability, please refer to the Schedule.
Family Lane Swim
All ages welcome.
Family Lane Swim is available for families who are serious about lane swimming. All family members must be able to swim continuous 25 metre lengths, and follow lane swim etiquette. Please ensure that your children are safe by keeping them within arm’s reach of a parent or guardian at all times. For pool availability, please refer to the Schedule.
Pool Specifications
The smaller Leisure Pool features a waterfall, two goosenecks, a bubbler and therapeutic massage jets. This pool is 0.75 metres (29.5 inches) deep throughout, and is maintained at a warm temperature of 33.3 to 34.4 degrees Celsius or 92 to 94 degrees Fahrenheit. The Main Pool offers up to four 24-metre swim lanes, plus one 20-metre lane and is 2.4 metres (nearly 8 feet) at the deep end and 1 metre (42 inches) deep in the shallow end. The temperature is maintained between of 27.8 to 28.9 degrees Celsius or 82 to 84 degrees Fahrenheit.
Pool Rules
Proper swimming attire must be worn
Pictures or videos are not permitted
Outdoor shoes must be removed when entering the pool deck
Diaper dependent patrons must wear swim diapers
Food or Beverages are not allowed in the pool area and viewing area
No diving except with instructors during swim lessons
No hanging on, jumping from, or swimming through the railings
No sitting, standing on, or jumping from yellow dividing wall
Third party instructing, coaching or training is prohibited. Physiotherapists must providing proper documentation and obtain permission from manager.
