BEGINNER KAYAK TRIPS

No previous kayak experience is required.

• Beginners should expect to start on sit-on-top kayaks and progress to decked kayaks at the discretion of the trip leader.

• Spray skirts should either be: 1) not worn or 2) worn but not fully fastened around the cockpit.

• Beginners should look at the Intermediate skills to see what to practice or learn.

INTERMEDIATE TRIPS 

The below on-water skills, including the wet exit, can be demonstrated to a Trip Leader during the beginner paddler’s Intermediate Assessment. These skills must be demonstrated BEFORE signing up for an intermediate trip.

Individuals should be able to prepare and paddle their kayak without assistance, including:

• Set up your own boat & gear including spray skirt, paddle and foot pegs

• Get in and out of the kayak unassisted

• Demonstrate a wet exit in the water

• Understand skegs and rudders

• Perform forward and reverse strokes, turns, and a stop in three strokes

• Draw and rudder strokes

• Paddle at a moderate pace for at least 60 minutes without a break

ADVANCED TRIPS 

Have mastered Intermediate paddler skills as well as the following:

• Self-rescue & towing

• Marine radio use

• Current and tide tables

• Weather knowledge (including lightning procedure, wind, CSO)

• Basic nautical rules and local knowledge

• Paddle at a moderate pace four hours or more

• Launch from land on a beach, or rocky shoreline

• Understand how to prevent hypo- and hyperthermia

• The above should be demonstrated to a TL during the paddler’s Advanced Assessment