Level 4: Performance Surf Kayaking Skills Course

Skills Course Overview:

The Surf Kayaking skills course is designed for experienced kayakers seeking to develop their skills in dynamic surf using smaller, more maneuverable, and venue appropriate boats including sit-on-top kayaks (with thigh straps), whitewater kayaks, surf-specific kayaks, and wave-skis in significant surf. The focus is on developing skills with the aim of maximizing safety and enjoyment.

Coastal kayaking surf skills are included in ACA Coastal Kayaking curriculum.

Course Objectives:

Safety – Learn about the surf zone environment, surf etiquette, self-rescues and assisted rescues
Skills – Introduce paddle strokes and techniques to catch and ride waves safely
Fun – To promote the inherent enjoyment and rewards of paddling in the surf zone

Course Prerequisites:

Acknowledgment of personal compliance with the ACA Essential Eligibility Criteria (EEC)
Completed a Level 3: Surf Kayaking skills course or possess equivalent skills and experience.
Having a reliable combat roll is strongly recommended.

Course Duration:

The course duration should be adjusted to best fit the needs and goals of the participants. One day (8 hours) or more.

Course Location / Accessible Venues:

Sandy beach break with significant surf, a mix of peeling waves and steep (plunging) waves during sets, with access to flat, protected water (if available.)

Winds, if cross-shore or off-shore less than 10 knots, if on-shore less than 20 knots
Wave faces less than 4 feet (1.2 meters)

Note: When selecting a venue, careful consideration should be given to hazards including other surfers, rip currents, long- shore drift, rocks, and human-made structures.

Course Size:

5 Participants : 1 Instructor; with an additional qualified assistant, the ratio can be 10 : 2.