Paddle Canada Basic Kayak Skills

Course Basics:
– $200/person, GST included.
– Gear rental available.
– One full day (8 hours).
– Learn strokes, capsize safety, rescues & more.
– Tons of fun!

Objective

This 8-hour course provides an excellent introduction to the foundational skills of flatwater kayaking, with a focus on the skills and knowledge required to enjoy short paddling excursions in calm, sheltered waters with peers of similar ability. Successful students will receive official Paddle Canada Basic Kayak Skills certification.

Times, Dates & Location

This course is 8 hours in duration and is completed in one day.
2026 Dates:
May 16
June 14
Other dates pending.
Most courses take place at Westwood Lake Park in Nanaimo, BC.
Private groups: Please contact us to discuss a date that works best for you.

Class Size & Fees

3 students minimum; 6 students maximum.
$200/person.
$50 to rent a sea kayak and equipment for the day.
Prices include GST.

Prerequisites

No previous paddling experience is required.
Participants must sign our waiver and complete a medical form in advance of attending the course.

Curriculum

Paddling Skills:

Forward stroke
Reverse stroke
Stopping
Forward sweep stroke
Reverse sweep stroke
Pivot turn
Draw stroke
Low brace
Edging
Launching & Landing
Emptying a Kayak
Lifting & Carrying a Kayak

Re-Entry Skills:

Wet Exit
Assisted Re-entry

Knowledge:

Parts of a Kayak
Kayak Outfitting
Paddling & Safety Equipment
Collision Regulations
Injury prevention
Sun & Cold Safety
Navigation
Risk Assessment & Mitigation
Impact of Kayakers on the Environment
Kayaking Community & Resources

Registration

To register, please e-mail us at crosscurrents@outlook.com or complete the form below and we will contact you to complete your registration.

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Register for Paddle Canada Basic Kayak Skills!

First and Last Name

Email Address

Phone Number

Course Date

Would you like to rent a kayak and equipment? (required)

Yes, please! No, I'm bringing my own.

If you are bringing your own kayak, please provide the make and model:

If you wish to rent a kayak and equipment from us, please provide your height and weight:

If you are an active member of a local paddling club, please provide the club name here:

Regarding Crosscurrents Kayak’s Waiver and Course Policies:

I have read and agree to the contents of Crosscurrents Kayak’s waiver (link below) and will complete and sign a copy of this waiver prior to the course.

Waiver (opens in new window)

I have read and agree to Crosscurrents Kayak’s Course Policies (link below).

Course Policies (opens in new window)

Other questions you have about the course and/or registration

Would you like to subscribe to Crosscurrents Kayak’s mailing list? (required)

Yes No

After your submit this form, we will be in touch by email to complete your registration.
See you on the water!

Questions about this course?

Please reach out to us at crosscurrents@outlook.com at any time!