Skip to primary navigation Skip to content Skip to footer

Intro to Sea Kayaking

Quick Details

Learn to Sea Kayak!

We’ll teach you the basics of sea kayaking including; boat and paddle nomenclature, effective and safe paddling techniques, and the equipment and skills you need to be safe on the water.

What to Bring
Paddle clothing should include layers so that you can adapt to the conditions of the day and your changing body temp. We suggest a synthetic shirt, a fleece top, windbreaker, board shorts or quick-dry pants (plus a synthetic long underwear layer for spring/fall course dates), sandals or water shoes, water bottle, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat or visor.

If you have any personal paddling equipment – life jacket, wetsuit, drysuit, paddle, etc – we encourage you to bring it. If your guides determine that your personal items are not suited for the course, we will provide you with the necessary items. Please contact us if you are interested in bringing your own kayak. 425.883.9039

What We Provide
We provide stable 2-person and 3-person fiberglass sea kayaks, paddles, spray skirts, life jackets, and safety equipment. Lunch is also included (please inform us of any food allergies/dietary restrictions when you register and we will do our best to accommodate).

Location
The course location is Bowman Bay at Deception Pass State Park near Oak Harbor, WA, or Spencer Spit State Park on Lopez Island (see list of course dates/locations below). At both locations we will be paddling in protected waters (bay) and venture further out along the coast as conditions and group ability allows.

View State Park information and learn more about camping and park activities for Deception Pass and Spencer Spit State Parks.

Skills/Topics Covered
Throughout the day you will have the opportunity to learn and practice numerous essential skills. Here are a few…

  • Launching & Landing (from the beach, and from a dock)
  • Proper Equipment & Fitting
  • Hazards; Wind, Waves, Weather…
  • Rescue Priorities
  • Strokes; Forward, Scull, Draw, Sweep, Braces
  • Maneuvers; Paddling Straight, Stopping…
  • Wet Exits & Assisted Rescues (optional – at the end of our day; must be properly dressed for immersion)

Bring your questions! Our instructors are eager to share with you their love of paddling and knowledge of the ocean environment. This is a fun and memorable island experience for families, friends, or individuals. Your time on the coast, the beach, and out on the water are sure to be the highlight of the summer!

ACA Coastal Kayaking L2 Skills Course: Essentials of Kayak Touring