- Beginner
- Ages 18+
- Multi Day
- Guide Training, Instruction, Multi-Day Adventures
Our whitewater raft guide training teaches you everything you need to know to lead your own river trips in a fun, comprehensive, and safe environment.
Quick Details
The American Canoe Association (ACA) Swiftwater Rescue Level IV workshop teaches recognition and avoidance of common river hazards, execution of self-rescue techniques, and rescue techniques for paddlers in distress. Emphasis is placed both on personal safety and on simple, commonly used skills.
Techniques for dealing with hazards that carry greater risks for both victim and rescuer, such as strainers, rescue vest applications, entrapments, and pins, also are practiced. Scenarios will provide an opportunity for participants to practice their skills both individually and within a team/group context.
The American Canoe Association (ACA) Swiftwater Rescue Level 4 workshop teaches valuable boater safety skills that all whitewater paddlers will be able to put into practice; recognition and avoidance of common river hazards, execution of self-rescue techniques, and simple rescues of paddlers in distress.
We typically teach this as a 2.5-day course (a 3-hour evening session on Day 1, followed by two full class days). This hands-on (i.e. wet!) course includes land and water skills practice and scenarios and all participants should be prepared to be in and around the river environment.
During this course, we will spend time in Class I-II moving water. Boaters should be able to competently maneuver their craft in Class II rapids. Non-boater participants with an interest in swiftwater rescue are also welcome. Participants should be in overall good health, a confident swimmer, and able to hold their breath underwater. Participants should dress appropriately for weather and temperature, and should expect to be in the water for extended periods of time.
Learn more about Class I-II water and river classifications.
Each participant must have the following items for class. Equipment rental package is available from OAC, with advance
*these items can be purchased from your instructor on the first day of the course
Our whitewater raft guide training teaches you everything you need to know to lead your own river trips in a fun, comprehensive, and safe environment.
This unique learning adventure includes the best of the Pacific Northwest coastline and is customized for the adventurous paddler who has limited or basic kayaking experience and is eager to learn.
Working as a sea kayak instructor or guide is fun and rewarding! Paddling instructors and guides have the opportunity to travel, work with a variety of ages and skill levels, and promote healthy, active lifestyles. Help ensure that families and paddlers in your area have access to safe boating opportunities!