Active Sea Kayaking » BEGINNER PROGRAMS

BEGINNER PROGRAMS

REGULAR:
We offer the usual Flatwater and Level 1 course by Paddle Canada. Both of those programs are designed for beginner or novices paddlers. You’ll learn the necessary rescues and strokes needed for a safe and fun time on the water. The FLATWATER COURSE is a one day introduction to sea kayak basics while the LEVEL 1 COURSE is a 2 days program that also cover some theory on tides, currents, weather and charts…. The details are bellow.

-FLATWATER SKILLS: 1 day course (8 hours) 170$ (tax included)
Overview by Paddle Canada:
Aim: Flatwater introduces the novice to paddling a kayak in calm, sheltered water.
Rescue techniques at this level incorporate the use of a paddling partner and it is essential for all Flatwater certified paddlers to travel on the water with others who have been trained in the techniques of assisted rescues.
Prerequisites: None
Course length: 8 hours minimum
Class ratio:1 instructor: 6 students
Location: Enclosed and sheltered with easy landing options immediately present.
This course can be conducted in a pool.
Conditions: Wind calm (< 8 knots) Sea state calm to rippled
Overview of Flatwater Kayaking:

Rescue Skills	Paddling Skills	Knowledge
Wet Exit Retrieving a swamped kayak Eskimo Rescue T- rescue Rafting	Lifting and carrying a kayak Forward and reverse paddling Forward and reverse sweep strokes Draw strokes Low Brace Edging	Boat design Boat Outfitting Clothing Safety equipment Paddles Injury Prevention Equipment care Kayaking resources

-LEVEL 1 SKILLS: 2 day course (12 hours) 260$ (tax included)
Overview by Paddle Canada:
Aim: Level 1 provides the skill and knowledge for day long sea kayaking trips in sheltered waters (non-wilderness areas). Successful completion of Level 1 indicates competence to paddle a sea kayak within a sheltered bay in the company of one or more paddlers with Level 1 or greater skill and knowledge.
Prerequisites: Paddle Canada Flatwater Kayaking Skills certification or equivalent skill and knowledge.
Course Length: 12 hours minimum
Class ratio: 1 instructor: 6 participants
Location: Sheltered waters with uninterrupted easy landing options
Conditions: Light winds (0-11 knots) Current (0-0.5 knots) Sea state calm to light chop.
Overview of Sea Kayaking Level 1 Skills:

Rescue Skills	Paddling Skills	Knowledge
Eskimo rescue Unassisted re-entry Assisted re-entry Towing Communication/signals	Forward stroke Brace low/high Sweep Draw Stern Rudder	Equipment Journeying and seamanship Safety Kayaking resources

ACTIVE SEA KAYAKING is based in Victoria and offers sea kayak instruction programs on Vancouver Island.