We recognize
that while sea kayaking provides us with an opportunity to travel
into areas where other boats simply can't go, there are specific
skills which should be learned to make kayaking safe and enjoyable.
We all need to make it our responsibility to become safe
paddlers.
Basic
Paddling Strokes / Half-Day Kayak Trip Learn the fundamentals of kayaking and enjoy a short kayak trip.
This class
provides two hours of instruction followed by a fun two-hour kayak
trip where we will work on developing basic paddling skills. Scheduled almost every day at 9:00 am & 2:00
pm for $65/ person. On a half-day trip we might paddle from the
harbor past the lighthouse and to the crystal-clear waters of
Little Sand Bay. The first part of this trip will be spent learning
and practicing basic paddling skills and techniques. Price includes all equipment,
instruction, guide and a snack. No experience is necessary. 4 hrs. / $65.
* Kids are $55 in any group of 3
or more.
Basic Rescues Learn basic rescues, equipment, weather, and safety.
This is the
next logical step after taking the Basic Paddling
Class / Half-Day Trip. In case of a capsize, it's important
to learn how to get back into the boat. In this class we will develop
the necessary skills to get back into your kayak safely and efficiently.
We'll practice wet exits, T-rescues, assisted T-rescues, paddle
float rescues, bracing techniques, and more. This class will give
you greater confidence and you'll also gain skill in avoiding a
capsize in the first place.
Pre-req: Basic Paddling Strokes / Half Day Trip.
4 hrs. / $65.
Basic Paddling & Rescues Class A combination of our two most popular classes
We combine
our Basic Paddling Techniques and Basic Rescues together in
an afternoon of essential skills practice. After a short
discussion of hypothermia, weather, local hazards, and safety equipment,
we'll hit the water! We eliminate the tour part of the Basic Paddling Class and make this a skills development course - saving you money! We provide everything you need: sea kayak, wetsuit, PFD, and even a snack. Prepare to get wet and have fun!
Pre-req: None.
4 1/2 hrs. / $85.
Advanced Paddling & Advanced Rescues Class An exciting fast-track course to help develop advanced skills.
This class
includes more advanced strokes such as bow and stern rudder strokes,
various draw strokes, sculling techniques, aggressive bracing, and
more. We will also work on carving turns, reverse paddling and paddling
in wind. And in this class,
you'll learn additional rescue techniques including all-in, doubles,
scoop, "Hand of God," and stirrup rescues. We'll also
try to perform these rescues in windier and rougher conditions,
but still in a protected area of on-shore winds.
Pre-req:
Basic Paddling Strokes and Basic Rescues or Introduction to Sea Kayaking
4 1/2 hrs. / $85.
Rolling
Class Learn the ultimate self-rescue.
Rolling is
an important skill because you never come out of your boat and therefore
you don't subject yourself to possible hypothermia. Although some
kayakers never bother to learn it, if you do, proper rolling technique
will give you more confidence as well as help you gain better control
of your kayak. We will work on your rolling technique or start from
scratch depending on your level of experience. Perfect your hip-snap
& work on getting over fears.
Pre-req: Basic Paddling Strokes (Half Day Trip).
2 1/2 hrs. / $45.
Three Kayakers Towing a Pontoon Boat caught in the weeds of Font Lake
Towing Knowledge of good towing techniques will make you a safer
paddler.
There are
several situations that could arise where knowing how to tow another
person or kayak could be very important. A paddler may be injured,
sick, or simply exhausted. He or she may be in the kayak or in the
water. This class will teach you various methods of towing a kayak
or person to safety.
Pre-req:
Basic Paddling Strokes (Half Day Trip).
2 1/2 hrs. / $45.
Kayak
Navigation Discover the art of good navigation - develop the tools to
get to your destination safely and efficiently.
In this class, you will learn piloting and dead reckoning, how to
read charts, plan trips safely, account for magnetic variation,
stay on course, deal with wind, fog, tides, and become skilled at
triangulation. We make it fun & simple.
Prereq: Basic Paddling Strokes or Introduction to Sea Kayaking
and Basic Rescues.
4 hrs. / $65; Night component / additional $40.
Basic weather
prediction Whether kayaking, camping, or hiking, being able to forecast
the weather provides a more enjoyable experience.
Learn the
basics of weather prediction including understanding clouds, wind
direction, storm fronts, highs & lows.
No previous experience is necessary.
On-land class. 2 hrs. / $35.