Surfing a Standing Wave

Want to try your hand at surfing a standing wave, or refine your existing wave surfing skills? This clinic takes place at Gabriola Passage, near Nanaimo, where tidal currents create an ideal training environment for surfing a sea kayak on a standing wave. Participants will learn and practice techniques for getting on a standing wave, surfing the wave, and exiting the wave. Get ready to challenge your skills and have fun!

Dates & Location

• Saturday December 27, 2025, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
• Monday March 9, 2026, from 8:45 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
• Wednesday March 25, 2026, from 9:30 a.m. to 12:45 p.m.

All sessions run at Gabriola Passage, off Gabriola Island. Participants must travel by ferry (25-minute journey) from downtown Nanaimo to Gabriola Island. View the BC Ferries schedule for this route.

Class Size & Fees

• $150 per person for 2025 sessions, GST included.
• $175 per person for 2026 sessions, GST included.
• Two students minimum; four students maximum.
• Clinic fee does not include ferry travel.

Prerequisites

• Strong Level 2 (or equivalent) paddler with previous current training and experience. You MUST be comfortable paddling and maneuvering your kayak in current (e.g., ferrying across current, using edging and strokes to enter/exit current across eddy lines, bracing for support, etc.). Instruction will focus on how to surf the wave, not on how to paddle in current.
• Confident performing wet exits and assisted/solo re-entries without instruction, in deep water, as both a swimmer and a rescuer. A roll is handy, but not required.
• Comfortable paddling in wind waves.

Required Equipment

• Sea-worthy kayak with sealed hatches fore and aft and perimeter (deck) lines around the full front and back decks.
• Transport Canada required safety equipment: PFD with whistle attached, bilge pump, 15-meter buoyant heaving line (aka throw bag or tow belt).
• Kayaking equipment: paddle, spray skirt, paddle float, spare paddle, etc.
• Paddling helmet.
• Immersion gear: drysuit with appropriate layers underneath OR full-body wetsuit of at least 4/3 thickness (4 mm neoprene on torso, 3 mm neoprene on arms and legs) with a rain/wind blocking paddling jacket.
• Neoprene accessories for warmth and comfort, as desired: gloves, pogies, booties, cap, surf hood, etc.
• Surf/swimming earplugs and/or a nose clip, if desired.
• Overlayers to keep you warm during land-based breaks (oversized poncho, rain jacket or fleece jacket that fits over your gear, gloves, toque, etc.)
• Toque or ball cap to wear under your helmet, sunglasses on cinch cord, sunscreen, etc., as conditions dictate.
• Change of warm, dry clothes in a drybag to take with you in your kayak.
• Adequate food and drink for the afternoon on the water, including a thermos with a hot drink. Ensure some of your food is accessible in your PFD for when we are in the current.
• Water bottle with carabiner, or PFD-integrated hydration system.
• Signed waiver and medical forms, provided two weeks prior to the course start date.

Important Notes

• This clinic typically takes place in the shoulder and winter months, when conditions are best for kayak surfing. Be prepared for colder temperatures, both on the water and during breaks. Please dress warmer than usual and bring extra clothing, accessories and layers to keep you warm both on the water and during breaks.
• There will not be a set group break during the session; however, it is possible to take breaks when needed in the eddy and/or on the shore. Participants are free to take individual breaks as and when needed. You can learn a lot by watching the action!
• All exercises are “challenge by choice.” If you do not feel comfortable with an exercise, or if you need a break, you can tap out for as long as needed. Participants must remain with the group until the end of the clinic, when we will return to the launch together.