LEVEL 1 SKILLS

This two day course is ideal for you if you want to learn the fundamentals of sea kayaking in a comprehensive way. At the end you will know how to effectively paddle forward, backward and sideways. You will learn to edge your kayak, to get back in your boat by yourself and to help someone else do it. We will also look at bracing and basic towing. Learning proper skills in flat water is super important, it will increase safety and the fun factor.   

DESCRIPTION

Level-1 provides the skill and knowledge necessary 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

PRE-REQUISITES

Paddle Canada Basic Kayak skills certification or equivalent skill and knowledge

COURSE LENGTH

12 hours minimum (over 2 days)

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

ASSESSMENT

Activities focus on safety and gaining paddling skills for a day trip within a large bay or sheltered shoreline. Issues of mutual safety between paddling partners and judgements of sea conditions throughout the day and out of sight along the shore are included. Paddlers will deal with the concerns for packing a kayak and the gear necessary for a comfortable day trip and solving problems in the field. Paddlers should leave the course encouraged to continue their learning and awareness of their limitations

OVERVIEW

Rescue skills

• Bow rescue

• Assisted re-entry

• Unassisted re-entry

• Towing

• Communication/signals

Paddling skills

• Forward stroke

• Reverse stroke

• Brace low/high

• Sweep

• Draw

• Stern rudder

• Edge control

Knowledge

• Equipment

• Journeying & seamanship 

• Safety

• Kayaking resources

For a more detailed description of this level please refer to the related extract from the Paddle Canada Sea Kayak Program Manual.

Please note that the above resource is for reference only. The syllabus or course policies may have changed slightly over time so in case of disagreement, refer to the latest version of the Paddle Canada Sea Kayak Program Manual for the most up-to-date information.

PRICE INCLUDES

Kayak and kayak related gear, PC certification upon successful completion of the course 

WHAT IS NOT INCLUDED

Personal paddling clothing, lunch, snacks and water 

DATES

VENUE

Montreal