3-Part Beginners Course
Coastal Kayaking
Expert Instructor
Learn the Essentials of Kayaking in Coastal Alaska
This first part of our 3-part Special Courses kayak training is tailored to provide you with an introduction to the basics of kayaking in Coastal Alaska. You’ll have a chance to learn and develop your foundational kayak skills for effective and safe paddling. The goal of this course is to make you feel significantly more confident on the water.
This course is suitable for beginners and advanced kayakers alike who are looking to bring their kayaking skills up to speed. This progressive 3-part course increases in difficulty, and in the last segment, “Rough Waters”, your skills and knowledge will be tested on, you guessed it, rougher waters! In case you’re looking for more comprehensive kayak training, check out our American Canoe Association Kayak Courses.
Why Choose This Course?
You’ll enjoy this introduction to kayaking whether you are a beginner or experienced kayaker. Get up to speed with your kayak skills starting with the basics in this initial course.
All the essential equipment is provided for you! All you need to bring is a lot of enthusiasm and a smile, along with appropriate clothing and snacks/food, and water for yourself.
Take in the stunning natural scenery that surrounds you and develop your skills in one of the most popular recreational water activities in the world.
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Course Details
Course Details
Price
$100 per person / per course
Start date and time
TBD (schedule will be determined after booking)
Venue
Flat water, protected from wind, waves and outside boat traffic, with current less than 0.5 knots, and within swimming distance of shore.
Meeting point
TBD closer to the course start date
Availability
March 1- October 31
Friday, Saturday or Sunday
Duration
Up to 1 day (8 hours)*
*The course duration will be adjusted to best fit the needs and goals of the participants.
Group size
5 participants to 1 instructor (minimum 2 participants)
Included
Solo kayak, paddle, PFD, paddle float, throw bag, tow rope, bilge pump, signaling whistle
Not included
Clothing, water or food
What to bring
– Water, snacks and/or lunch
– Appropriate clothing for paddling that you don’t mind getting wet:
– Socks
– Base layers (wool/synthetic, avoid cotton)
– Warm insulation
– Rain gear
– Beanie
– Gloves (rubber works great)
– Footwear (neoprene booties are best but tennis shoes are fine)
Participation requirements
The minimum age required to participate in this course is 10 years
About your guide
ACA-certified kayak instructor
What You'll Do On This Course
This is a basic overview of the curriculum for the Calm Seas segment of our Special Courses kayak training. Once you sign up, you will receive a detailed document outlining all the topics and practical exercises that are covered in this full-day course, some of which include:
- Paddling forward and paddling in reserve
- Turning strokes
- Self-rescues and assisted rescues
- Cold water safety
Please Keep In Mind
There are no prerequisites to undertake this course.
Curriculum for this course is based off of the Level 1 ACA course with more focus on cold water safety as well as simplified rescues and safety.
This beginner course is catered more specifically to the needs of those kayaking in coastal Alaska.
