This course is the primary starting point of the Paddle Canada sea kayak skills progression. In a single day, new paddlers learn how to ensure their safety and enjoyment as they pursue their new sport. Our instructors teach in an inclusive and patient manner which will help you in learning your new skills proficiently.
Our aim is to share enough knowledge with you to make that first kayak purchase, know what gear you need to be safe, and highlight a few pieces of gear to make your kayaking experience even better.
By the end of the day, we want you to know how to be safe on the water, how to avoid tipping your kayak, and what to do if you fall in. We teach the fundamental strokes you will need to move your kayak through the water. Having these skills will allow you to get out there and start having fun in your kayak while staying close to shore.
People new to paddling are often unaware of what can go wrong and lack the skills to avoid or recover from mishaps. After successful completion of this 8-hour kayak course, students will be safe to paddle with others on sheltered waters.
What every new paddler must know
- OSKC instructors begin with teaching how to easily get in and out of the kayak safely. Believe it or not, this is where most incidents occur.
- Next, we ensure students can easily exit the kayak should it capsize.
- At this level, we also teach assisted rescue, where paddlers can aid one another to climb back into their kayaks in the event of capsizing.
- Once these essential safety skills are mastered, students learn the various strokes needed to maneuver their kayak in all directions.
Any one of these skills could save your life. At this level, it’s still important to always paddle with a partner.
Private Paddle Canada Kayak Basics Course
If you and a family member or friend would like to take this course and would rather do it on a different date, or with your own private small group, this can be arranged. We have instructors available all summer at our centre as well as different locations across Ontario, and they love getting new paddlers out on the water for the day. Contact us to book a course or a location that suits your needs. Minimum 2 students. Add accommodation at our kayaking base camp for a relaxing paddling getaway. Email: [email protected] or call 1-905-399-1216
What You Will Learn
- Paddling and safety equipment
- Wet exit and assisted re-entries
- Paddling skills and how to safely have fun on the water!
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Course Prerequisites
Please contact us with any question related to these trip prerequisites.
- No experience necessary.
What's Included
Don’t worry, we’ve got this covered.
Included
- 8-Hour Sea Kayak Skills Course
- Certified Paddle Canada Instructor 1:6 student ratios maximum
- Kayak paddle floats and rescue stirrups
What's Not Included
- Kayak and equipment rental. (Available at checkout for $20)
- Overnight camping or accommodation fees if applicable.
- Any parking fees at location if applicable
What You Should Bring
A detailed gear list is sent before the start of the trip but this can get you started.
- Your kayak, kayak skirt, paddle and pfd as well as all Transport Canada required safety gear (entire package available to for rent for $20 fee if needed)
- Clothing to wear on the water and get wet in.
- Sun screen and a hat
- Your lunch, snacks and water
Lessons in Parry Sound, Ontario
This course is at Ontario Sea Kayak’s home base in Parry Sound. On-site we have six canvas wall tents nicely spaced out on our forest property. We offer the course from our private waterfront. Check out our sister company Harmony Outdoor Inn for more info on our B&B room options or to see the site. To book into a tent during your course, add it to your cart while booking online.
Course Notes
The course starts at 9:00 am on Friday morning. This course usually finishes at around 5:00 pm
Course Dates
July 30, 2021
August 13, 2021
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Course Location and Driving Directions
Ontario Sea Kayak Centre
Parry Sound, Ontario
We will start the course at our base here in Parry Sound.
Driving Directions Address:
Ontario Sea Kayak Centre6 Harmony Lane
Parry Sound, ON
Ontario Sea Kayak Centre
Parry Sound, Ontario
We will start the course at our base here in Parry Sound.
Get Driving Directions
Really happy to have rolled 4 out of 5 times in a row thanks to James' & Scott's guidance. Interesting how I learned a vital tip from each one of you.
International Visitors
We are more than willing to accommodate you in any way that we can. Contact us to see how we can help!
We are happy to answer any questions you may have about our Paddle Canada kayak courses. Please email or call us 1-905-399-1216
We are happy to answer any questions you may have about this trip or about any of our other trips or courses.