The Essentials of Kayak Touring ****course is designed to teach beginner paddlers to safely and enjoyably kayak on lakes, calm protected ocean environments, and other flatwater settings.
Note: This curriculum may be used for both spray skirted kayaks, as well as non-spray skirted kayaks. Skills not applicable to non-spray skirted kayaks are followed by the notation: *.
Bulkheads are not required; however, some form of flotation must be present to keep the kayak from sinking.
The course duration should be adjusted to best fit the needs and goals of the participants. Suggested time: Half a day to one day (4-8 hours).
Calm, protected water with constant access to safe landing and within .5 nautical miles from shore:
5 Participants : 1 Instructor; with an additional qualified assistant, the ratio can be 10 : 2.
For additional details, see SEIC Policy Manual Chapter 6.
This course may be offered by Level 2: Essentials of Kayak Touring (or higher) ACA Instructors, Instructor Trainers, or Instructor Trainer Educators.
Level 2: Essentials of Kayak Touring Skills Assessment
Level 2: Essentials of Kayak Touring Trip Leader Training and Assessment
Level 3: Coastal Kayaking Skills Course
The following is a general summary of content for this course. The content and sequence of instruction should be adjusted to best fit the participant’s needs, class location and time allowance.