Kayaking in any body of water in the Northwest presents a certain element of risk. Cold water, wind, tides and currents are variables which must be considered when heading out on the water in any watercraft. Our lessons are designed to help you to minimize those risks with proper skills, together with good judgement.

We provide all necessary equipment and show you its proper fit and function. Our class ratios are 1 instructor per 2 students, in order to receive the personal attention needed. Our instructors are ACA (American Canoe Association) or BCU (British Canoe Union) trained, and our curriculum is based on ACA teaching standards. Reservations are required.

Pool Sessions

Self & Assisted Capsize Recovery

Capsizing a kayak is not a common occurrence, and most paddlers go for years without a capsize. However, one unseen rouge wave or poorly placed paddle stroke is all it takes. What you do during the next few seconds can make the difference between just getting wet or being in a life-threatening situation. Our capsize recovery class, practiced in the safety and warmth of the Port Townsend Pool, will give you the skills and confidence to recover yourself or another kayaker quickly and effectively. This skill is required by most Kayak Rentals Shops.

1.5 hours / $60. (required for Kayaking 101)

Paddle Strokes & Braces

Paddle control is the most important skill in kayaking, both in efficient & effective propulsion, boat handling and in preventing capsize. From the safety and warmth of the Port Townsend Pool, we learn and practice these valuable skills. We find the limits of our bracing and recovery strokes without holding back for fear of immersion and we fine-tune our propulsion strokes so as not to tire when faced with wind and wave.

1.5 hours / $60. (required for Kayaking II )

Eskimo Roll

This skill is the “icing on the cake” for any sea kayaker. Although not essential, it is the ultimate defense in capsize recovery. Once mastered in the pool, it does require a commitment to constant practice in order to be useful. For those who plan to kayak in surf or whitewater, it is an absolute essential skill. Equipment provided with self-practice pool sessions for $25. available to those who complete the course.

1.5 hours / $90. one-on-one instruction (requires mastery of essential skill

Open Water Classes

Kayaking 101

This class is structured for anyone just starting out in kayaking and also for those that have kayaked before, but have never had any formal training. We cover the equipment, its proper use, adjustment and posture. Basic paddle strokes for propulsion and boat control, proper entry and exits are part of this curriculum. After learning the mechanics of the skills on shore, we set off on the water to practice and fine-tune these skills under the watchful eye and guidance of your instructor.

4 hours / $100. (requires capsize recovery skills)

Kayaking II / Essential Skills

After mastering the skills of K101, the next step is to learn some new techniques which are essential for safe and efficient paddling in the dynamic waters of the Northwest. We add to our basic paddle strokes, bracing, sculling, and draws, both in dynamic and static situations. We add to our present skills a new element of boat control through edging and leaning the boat, coupled with the proper strokes. We learn how to recognize and compensate for the effects of wind and current, we also learn how to recognize and avoid potentially dangerous situations. This class is entirely an on-the-water experience.

4 hours / $100. (requires K101 and Paddle Strokes and Braces)

Kayaking III / Advanced Skills

We begin this lesson with a classroom introduction to trip planning through map and tide chart reading. We also cover weather forecasting, and navigation skills. We then put it all together with an actual open-water crossing to Bird Island. Along the way back we will participate in an actual capsize and recovery session, covering both self and assisted rescues. Class includes use of our premium boats and we will provide drysuits or wetsuits for your comfort.

5 hours / $125. (requires mastery of all Essential Skills)

Complete Kayaking Skills Package

A commitment to becoming a safe and effective paddler, and having the ability and confidence to plan and execute a open-water trip requires a completion of the entire curriculum. This commitment is rewarded with a discount in pricing and allows for an entire season to practice and master those skills. This commitment also includes the use of any of our rental gear at half price during the June through September season.

5 classes / $350. (classes must be completed between June – Sept )