Private Ski Lessons in Vancouver BC
Want to become a better skier, build confidence on the mountain, or help your child discover a love of skiing?
I'm Dave Holden, a private ski instructor with 13 seasons of experience teaching at Cypress Mountain in Vancouver, BC.
I work with skiers of all ages and abilities- from first time beginners to experienced skiers who want to improve their technique.
Private lessons. Personal attention.
Your goals. Your Pace.
Why Ski with Dave?
A private ski lesson should be more than following an instructor down a run. It's about understanding how you ski, what you want to achieve, and finding the right way to help you progress.
My approach is relaxed, positive and highly personalized. I want you to improve- but I also want you to enjoy the process.
I'm a certified ski instructor for 13 seasons. I am certified with both CSIA and PSIC. I'm an official ski instructor on the mountain. I'm passionate about skiing and even more passionate about helping other people discover what they're capable of on skis. I've taught hundreds of skiers over my many seasons at Cypress Mountain, working with children, teenagers and adults at different stages of their skiing.
Especially for Kids
Every child learns differently.
Some kids are excited to charge down the mountain. Others need time to build confidence. Some have had lessons before but haven't connected with an instructor or found skiing enjoyable.
My job is to figure out what works for the individual skier.
That might mean building fundamental skills, improving confidence, exploring more challenging terrain, or simply finding a way to make skiing (more) fun.
Ski Lessons for Every Level
Beginner Ski Lessons (kids, teens, and adults)
Learn the fundamentals in a relaxed environment with instruction tailored to your pace.
Adult Ski Lessons (teens and adults)
Improve your technique, confidence and control with focused one-on-one coaching.
Advanced Ski Coaching (kids, teens, and adults)
Already comfortable on skis? We can work on technique, terrain, confidence, and the skills that will help take your skiing farther.
Visiting Vancouver?
If you're visiting Vancouver and want to fit some skiing into your trip, I can help you make the most of your day on the mountain.
Private instruction can be particularly useful when you're unfamiliar with the mountain, local conditions or the best way to spend your time on snow. See my guide for preparing for a ski day at Cypress Mountain.
FAQ's
Can I bring a friend?
Absolutely. You and a friend at a similar level can join the lesson. Why not bring a few? Check the booking page, or send me a message if you have further questions.
What should I do to prepare for a ski lesson?
My mom used to say "Dress for the weather not the calendar." Check the mountain and road conditions, and leave with plenty of time to spare. I have a page on this very subject! It's right here.
Do you teach children?
Yes! I teach children as well as teenagers and adults. The lesson is adapted to the skier's age, ability, confidence and goals.
Do you teach advanced skiers?
Yes. The focus is on individualized instruction and your specific goals.
Can you teach in any other languages?
Skiing is a universal language. But I speak English. I can pull off a lesson in Dutch and apparently have enough words in French and Spanish to get away with a lesson. You'll have a great time regardless and you can correct me!
What should I bring?
You'll need appropriate ski equipment, clothing and a valid lift ticket or pass. If you don't have these things I can point you in the right direction. Please arrive an hour before your lesson if you are renting clothing and gear. Goggles are an item that is not often rented. Rentals can also be pre-booked. Check out my page on preparing for your ski lesson, but feel free to ask me.
How do I book a lesson?
Check my calendar for availabilities. When you find a time that you like, then fill out the booking form. Ability Level- If you're not sure, feel free to ask. If you know what your goals are, that's helpful too. I'll reply with an email from flaik where you can pay and confirm.
What mountain do you teach at?
All lessons are at Cypress Mountain in West Vancouver, BC.
Why is it important that my ski instructor is certified, uniformed, and an official instructor at the mountain?
PSIC and CSIA are the governing bodies of ski instructors in Canada. An instructor can belong to either or both. There are ethics and standards that instructors must adhere to. When your instructor is official (uniformed with the mountain's logo) they are bound by these standards and the safety protocols of their mountain. Your safety is paramount- they are insured, trained and prepared to keep you safe in any situation.
WHAT MY STUDENTS SAY
These testimonials are reproduced from my actual clients.
Dave's infectious passion took it to a whole new level! He is a fun, lovely guy to be around, but super focused on the task in hand too. I always felt like I had got THE MOST out of every time I hit the slopes with Dave and I'm way better than I ever imagined thanks to him.
Great teacher. Forever grateful student!
Lewis Kane - Scotland
Dave has been coaching my 11 yo. son for the past 4 years. I saw my son maturing from a shy, cautious skier with average skills, to an adventurous young man, being able to increase great skiing skills and leverage on a lot of fun on the ski runs. Thanks to Dave, my son is an accomplished and well seasoned skier! Looking forward to a fifth seasons of ski lessons!
Bruno Feldeisen - Vancouver
My son had challenges learning to ski. Many instructors made no headway until Dave. Dave made the experience fun for my son and knew how unlock his potential. So grateful!
Sterling Ramberg - Seattle
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