Our Intermediate / Paddle Canada Level-1 lesson provides the skill and knowledge necessary for day-long sea kayaking trips in sheltered waters (non-wilderness areas). Successful completion of Level-1 indicates competence to paddle a sea kayak within a sheltered bay in the company of one or more paddlers with Level-1 or greater skill and knowledge. This class is delivered over a weekend:
Successful candidates earn a Paddle Canada Level 1 skills certification. The full course outline is here
Prerequisite: Paddle Canada Basic Kayak skills certification (Fundementals+) or equivalent skill and knowledge.
Requirements: We provide PFD's, you must bring a wetsuit (either your own or you can rent at Windsure) or a dry suit.
Lessons will start on the hour - please arrive a bit early. We will start on land and have an opportunity to change into wetsuits before we launch.
What to Bring
Mandatory:
Wetsuit or Drysuit: A 3mm 3/4 sleeveless wetsuit (farmer john/jane) is ideal for kayaking, with a jacket and insulation layers on top. I prefer getting it in 2 pieces - neoprene pants and a vest, it's more versatile and comfortable. If you have a full body wetsuit, it's fine for the course, but you may find it uncomfortable and too hot for regular paddling. A shorty is not acceptable - not warm enough for our ocean water temperatures. You can rent wetsuits from Jericho Kayak Centre, Mac Sailing, or Windsure. Please book it with them in advance to make sure that they're open and can accommodate you. Or use a dry suit.
Footwear: For warmth, and protection from cuts, scrapes, and blisters. A 3mm neoprene high top bootie with no zipper is ideal, but any neoprene bootie, water shoe, sport sandal, or old runners will do for the course.
Food: The Galley is too slow for our lunch break, so please bring your own food, including on-water snacks. This is a physical course, so it's important to stay fueled and hydrated
Water: Have a bottle that you can bring on the water with you. There is a filtered water dispenser for filling bottles on site.
Recommended:
Sunglasses: Highly recommend having a strap, and either floating sunglasses or a floating strap. Polarized is better. The sea gods of English Bay demand occasional tribute of sunglasses, so avoid bringing expensive designer glasses.
Glasses strap: If you wear prescription glasses, a floating strap is a good investment
Sunscreen: There is no shade on the water, and the sun reflects of the surface, so the sun exposure is much higher than on land. Mineral-based (zinc or titanium oxide) sunscreens are more effective and less damaging to sea life.
Dry Warm Clothes: Expect to be cold when we get off the water. You will appreciate having some dry warm clothes (and possibly a towel) waiting for you.
Phone and Case: When you bring your phone on the water, keep it in a waterproof case.
Gloves: For warmth and to prevent blisters. Fingerless gloves are best
Hat: A wide brim, floating hat with a chin strap is ideal.
The best places to get paddling gear are Coast Outdoors in North Vancouver and Western Canoe and Kayak
Notes:
- We try to finish on time, but it's not guaranteed, so please don't book anything immediately following the course.
- It can be a physically challenging course, so take care of yourself, and plan to get sufficient rest, sleep, and nutrition on Saturday night.
Cancellation Policy: There is no refund. Cancellation will only be accepted up to 5 days in advance of the course.
