Building on the information covered in Basic Skills, Level 1 is a two day course that moves participants beyond the world of flatwater kayaking and into the sport of sea kayaking. The course is conducted in slightly rougher water than Basic Kayak, aiming to develop the kayaker's comfort in Class-1 waters. There is a strong focus on re-entry techniques as well as the skills required to plan and execute a day trip with friends (for example, navigation and route planning, weather interpretation, proper clothing/gear).

This is a two day on-water course with sixteen hours of instruction.

Some kayaking experience is recommended for this course, including being able to execute a controlled wet exit, perform a simple assisted re-entry in calm conditions, and having at least several days of paddling experience in calm conditions.

Participants require their own sea worthy kayak with reserve buoyancy (water tight hatches and sealed bulkheads), as well as Transport Canada required equipment including PFD, paddle, whistle, throw rope and bilge pump/bailing device.

Course location is currently set for Gyro Park at Cadboro Bay, and will be confirmed by the Instructor prior to the course.

The course includes a focus on wet exits and re-entries, therefore immersion clothing is required. This could include a wet suit and paddling top with insulating layers, or a dry suit and insulating layers. NOTE: without immersion clothing, course participation is not possible.

The course is two full days, therefore please bring a lunch, water and snacks each day. Expect to be engaged from 08:30 until 16:30 each day.

Cost for the course is $100 and is payable through PayPal as part of the Online Course Registration.

The Instructor will contact all participants prior to the course to confirm details, assign pre-course work, etc.

Payment options

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