Kayak Rolling Clinics

Want to learn how to roll your sea kayak, or refine aspects of a roll you already have? We can help! Our rolling clinics teach you the technique and body mechanics involved in rolling a kayak in calm waters. We are happy to accommodate different body types, flexibility levels, learning speeds, etc.

Note that we specialize in teaching and refining the sweep roll. You can see examples of the sweep roll in the videos below:

• The Sweep Roll with Cali Collective
• How to Do a Sweep Kayak Roll by NRS

If you are interested in working on another type of roll, please contact us in advance.

Dates and Locations

• Our rolling clinics are booked by appointment only. We can accommodate one or two people in a session.
• We run our clinics at various sheltered-water locations in the Nanaimo area. Common locations include Westwood Lake Park and Neck Point Park. We select a location that will provide the best learning environment for you on the day of your booking.

Fees

• One-person private clinic: $180 for 1.5 hours.
• Two-person private clinic: $290 for 2 hours.
• GST is included in our prices.

Prerequisites

• Minimum Paddle Canada Level 1 Sea Kayak Skills certification, or equivalent.
• Comfortable completing controlled wet exits in deep water while wearing a spray skirt.
• Comfortable being submerged underwater in your kayak for short periods of time.

Required Equipment

Kayak and Paddling Equipment

• Sea-worthy kayak with sealed hatches fore and aft and non-stretchy (non-bungee) perimeter lines around the front and back decks. These lines allow your instructor to support and right you during rolling practice. If you are unsure if your kayak has these lines, please contact us.
• Kayak paddle (Euro blade or Greenland blade is fine).
• Transport Canada required safety gear (PFD with whistle attached, pump, throw bag).
• Inflatable paddle float, if you have one.

Immersion Gear and Attire

• Immersion gear appropriate to the conditions of the day and your body temperature needs. E.g., dry suit with appropriate synthetic layers underneath OR wet suit of appropriate coverage and thickness. Please dress warmer than you usually would.
• Accessories to keep you warm and comfortable while capsized, such as a surf hood, neoprene cap, neoprene gloves, etc. 
• Goggles/scuba mask and nose clips. These items allow you to focus on technique and learning.
• Ear plugs, if you are sensitive to cold water or are prone to dizziness/vertigo when capsized.
• Floating strap for glasses or sunglasses, if required.

Other Items

• Change of warm dry clothes in a drybag.
• High-energy snacks that you can access from your kayak.
• Drinking water that you can access from your kayak.  
• Warm beverage in a Thermos.
• Sunscreen, sunglasses, hat with brim.