May 27, 2025

By Mathew Channer
 
Canadian manufacturer Pace Inflatable Boats has partnered with Sail Canada and Yamaha-Motor Canada to become the official coach boat of the Canadian National Sailing Team.
 
Pace Marine, which specializes in commercial and recreational Rigid aluminum Hulled Inflatable Boats (RHIBs), will supply Sail Canada with an all-new Pace Arrow 580 RHIB, powered by Yamaha, and Pace trailer to support the high-performance coaching of Canada’s top sailors.
 
Pace Inflatable Boats CEO and co-founder John Doucette says they are proud to support the Canadian National Sailing Team.
 
“We share Sail Canada’s passion for the sport and we’re grateful for their collaboration in the development of the new professional Arrow Series,” he said.
 
“We’ve been working directly with their lead coach to give them input on the boat.”
 
Sail Canada CEO Ryan Kelly says they are thrilled by the partnership.
 
“This collaboration brings together innovation, performance, and national pride,” he said.
 
Yamaha-Motor Canada Production Line Manager Matt Both says the partnership is a significant milestone.
 
“This innovative project represents a fusion of our collective expertise and passion for marine products, and we look forward to the positive impact it will have on the community,” he said.
 
Pace Inflatable Boats was founded four years ago by co-owners Doucette and D’arcy Craig, who met through their daughters’ sailing team. Today, the company manufactures four different lines of RHIBs and are will be assembling over 40 vessels at their facility in Ottawa in 2025.
 
Supporting Canadian sailing has always been a strong driver for Doucette and Craig. Pace Inflatable Boats has supported sailing events since its conception, either financially or by providing support vessels at various regatta’s including Canada Olympic Regattas Kingston (CORK).
 
“This collaboration is a testament to our continued focus and support for Canadian Sail Training,” Doucette said.