Introductory Kayak Classes

L1: Kayak Basics

Kayak Basics

Do you want to learn to paddle but are not sure where to start? The goal of this four-hour class will introduce a few basic strokes (forward, reverse and sweeps) that are fundamental to all types of kayaking. You will learn about different types of kayaks, including Sea and Touring Kayaks, Recreational Kayaks, and Sit-on-Tops. This class focuses on flat water skills and safety for those who want to paddle recreational kayaks! Further instruction should be pursued later for those who want to paddle touring or sea kayaks in our Beginning Sea Kayaking class.

Cost of the Class:

  • Includes kayak, pfd, paddle, paddling jacket, & wetsuit is optional in this class.
  • A Private class can be arranged if the minimum enrollment is not met, additional fee applies
  • Own boat & gear discount available during booking. If you are uncertain of the suitability of your boar/gear for this class please contact [email protected]

Note: This class does not qualify participants to rent touring (closed-deck) or sea kayaks; our Beginning Sea Kayak class deals with those specific qualifications.

Prerequisite:

  • No experience necessary, however, a good physical condition is required to assure an enjoyable class.
  • The minimum age for the class is 14 years; children under 18 years must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian.
  • Be able to paddle up to 5+ miles during the course of the day.

 

Location

Jack London Square

409 Water St.

Oakland, CA

 Duration: 3-4 hours

Click here to Request Private Class

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 


L2: Sit-On-Top Kayak Rescue Clinic

In this class, you will learn, practice and refine different rescue and re-entry techniques for Sit-On-Top Kayak. These techniques are necessary for safe paddling on any body of water where swimming to shore is not an option. You will be getting wet in this class! Participants will learn and review both solo and assisted rescues'. You can experiment with various options for these rescues to find your 'Go To' method and have fun learning! You are welcome to bring your own kayak to practice with.

Cost of the Class:

  • Includes: Kayak, paddling essentials (Paddle, PFD, Paddle Jacket, Bilge Pump & Paddle Float), & wetsuit.
  • A Private class can be arranged if the minimum enrollment is not met, additional fee applies
  • Own boat & gear discount available during booking. If you are uncertain of the suitability of your boar/gear for this class please contact [email protected]

Prerequisite: No experience necessary, however, a good physical condition is required to assure an enjoyable class. The minimum age for this class is 14 years; children under 18 years must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian.

Location

Jack London Square

409 Water St.

Oakland, CA

Duration: 3-5 hours

Click here to Request Private Class

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 


L2: Beginning Sea Kayaking

Beginning Sea Kayak

You do not need to take the Kayak Basics class to be in this class (highly recommend it). This class is for those who want to learn how to paddle a sea touring kayak. Our expert instructors teach you a wide range of strokes such as the Forward and Reverse stroke, Sweep Stroke (adjust your course & turn), Draw Stroke (move the boat sideways) high and low brace which helps prevent you from capsizing.

Be prepared to get wet! you will learn how to attach a spray skirt, wet exit from your kayak and learn a Paddle-float rescue and T-Rescue. Both these rescues are essential for paddling closed cockpit kayaks safely on protected waters. You will also learn about tides and currents. Graduates of this class are qualified to rent closed-cockpit touring and sea kayaks and participate in more advanced classes and trips. The Beginning Sea Kayak class will give you the invaluable tools needed to practice and refine your strokes and rescues in future practice sessions.

This class is equivalent to an American Canoe & Association Level 2 Course

Cost of the Class:

  • Includes: Kayak, paddling essentials (Paddle, PFD, Paddle Jacket, Bilge Pump & Paddle Float), & wetsuit!
  • Private class can be arranged if the minimum enrollment is not met, additional fee applies
  • Own boat & gear discount available during booking. If you are uncertain of the suitability of your boar/gear for this class please contact [email protected]

Prerequisite: No experience necessary, however, good physical condition is required to assure an enjoyable class. The minimum age for the class is 14 years; children under 18 years must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian. Be able to paddle up to 5 miles+

Location

Jack London Square

409 Water St.

Oakland, CA

 Duration: 4-7 hours

General Booking

Women's Only Course

55+ Course

Click here to Request Private Class

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 


 

 


Introductory Kayak Classes