Course Descriptions, Registration, & General Information

Fundamentals of Coastal Kayaking

The Fundamentals of Coastal Kayaking course is an introduction to kayaking for people with no or limited kayaking experience, held in a small group setting. Focus will be on good techniques for fundamental kayaking strokes: forward, backward, and stop. You will also learn to stabilize your kayak with a solid low brace and turn with sweep strokes. We will discuss which kayaks work best for which conditions, choosing gear, dressing for paddling, boat fit, kayak and paddle design, and carrying and loading kayaks. The final part of the class will be spent working on “wet exits” and group rescue practice. We encourage you to have fun while you learn in a low pressure environment.

Maximum group size: 4 participants

Note: If you don’t see a date that works for you, contact us for private lessons.

Fundamentals of Coastal Kayaking II

The Fundamentals of Coastal Kayaking course is an introduction to kayaking for people with no or limited kayaking experience. Focus will be on good techniques for fundamental kayaking strokes: forward, backward, and stop, in a small group setting. You will also learn to stabilize your kayak with a solid low brace and turn with sweep strokes. We will discuss which kayaks work best for which conditions, choosing gear, dressing for paddling, boat fit, kayak and paddle design, and carrying and loading kayaks. The final part of the class will be spent working on “wet exits” and group rescue practice.

Maximum group size: 4 participants

Note: If you don’t see a date that works for you, contact us for private lessons.

Kayak Rolling

We will review and strengthen the parts of a roll, including the sweep stroke, hip snap, and the high brace. During this session, you will work one-on-one with a kayak instructor / coach in the water for support to put the pieces together for a successful roll. Rolling takes time and practice and all the pieces must be strong. It is not unusual for paddlers to need plenty of practice before the roll comes together. You must be comfortable upside down in the water.

Maximum group size: 3 participants

Rough Water and Surf Skills

For more advanced paddlers, we can provide opportunities to strengthen your ability to paddle safely in rougher water by improving bracing skills and boat handling skills in conditions. If there is surf, we are happy to work with you on your kayak surfing skills.

Fall brings lumpy water and winds to our region while the water still retains summer’s warmth. Check out Uncommon Adventure’s Sleeping Bear Storm Gathering, held every other year. It is a unique retreat designed to work on skills in conditions with the support of amazing coaches.

Maximum group size: 4 participants per coach

General Information and Answers to your Questions!

What Should I Bring?

  • Appropriate clothing – swimsuit, rash guard. Dress to get wet in synthetic clothing (NO COTTON)
  • Sun Hat
  • Proper footwear (e.g., water shoes)
  • Sunscreen
  • Sunglasses (with a retainer, if you want to keep them)
  • Personal medications
  • Drybag (we will provide if you don’t have one)
  • Water and snacks
  • If the class is before July 4, we recommend you wear a wetsuit or dry suit. If you don’t have one, let us know in advance and we will provide one (rental fee)
  • Dry change of clothes
  • A positive attitude and a willingness to have fun!
  • We will provide everything else but you are welcome to bring your own kayaking equipment. Please contact us to ensure your equipment is appropriate for the course. 

 

Where Do We Meet? 

  • Meeting location will be provided upon registration. The paddling venues are always specially chosen to match our courses and are dependent on the weather.

 

How Do I Register?

Please register via the widgets above or call us at 954-540-1387 to enquire about a class. Registration and payment are required prior to the course. Full refund for cancellations more than 48 hours in advance or if the instructor cancels the course due to weather. No-shows will be charged the full amount.

Cost: Prices are listed with each course above. Day courses last approximately 3 hours.

NOTE: Registration must be done at least 48 hours in advance. 

For answers to other frequently asked questions, check our Resources and FAQs page.