Sea Kayak Introductory Beginner Course

Ready to take your kayaking to the next level? Whether you’ve got a shiny new kayak or want to boost your skills and confidence, this hands on 3-hour Sea Kayaking Fundamentals Course is perfect for you! Designed for beginners and those with a little kayaking knowledge, this course will equip you with everything you need to kayak safely, rescue yourself and others, and gain a deeper connection to the environment. Whether you’re looking to improve your technique or simply feel more at home on the water, we’ve got you covered from start to finish!

Kick things off at West Harbour Marina ( 36°48’41.7″S 174°38’40.1″E) where you’ll meet your friendly guide and fellow adventurers. First up, we’ll get you familiar with all the essential kayaking gear – PFDs, paddles, and spray skirts – so you’re feeling comfortable and ready to hit the water. From there, we’ll dive into water safety, teaching you how to handle weather conditions, tides, currents, and wind like a pro! You’ll learn how to assess your surroundings and navigate with confidence, all while being mindful of the environment and wildlife around you. We’ll even chat about marine conservation, so you can paddle responsibly and do your part to protect our oceans.

Once you’re settled into the kayak, we’ll show you how to handle unexpected situations, starting with self-rescue techniques – because accidents happen, and we’ll make sure you know exactly what to do if you capsize! You’ll also practice partner rescues, learning how to help a fellow kayaker in distress with towing, re-entry, and clear communication. Whether you’re cruising through calm waters or facing more challenging conditions, you’ll soon master the techniques that’ll keep you balanced, controlled, and paddling like a true pro!

Throughout the course, you’ll pick up all the kayaking essentials: perfecting your paddle stroke, learning how to handle your kayak in any condition, and mastering how to read and respond to changing weather and water conditions. By the end of the session, you’ll have the knowledge and confidence to kayak anywhere – and you’ll feel empowered to tackle any challenge on the water.

Course Highlights Include:

• Getting to know your kayak gear (PFDs, paddles, spray skirts, and more!)
• Understanding the impact of weather, tides, and currents
• Mastering self-rescue and partner rescue techniques
• Building your confidence in tougher conditions
• Gaining a deep appreciation for the environment with responsible kayaking practices

What’s Included:

• All kayaking gear (kayak, paddle, PFD, spray skirt)
• Expert kayaking instruction and guidance
• Hands-on rescue practice
• Educational insights on environmental awareness and ocean conservation

What to Bring:  With social nature movement we like to fully immerse ourselves in meaning you’ll be in and out of the water for a good chunk of the time! To stay warm and comfortable, we recommend wearing a wetsuit. If you don’t have one or are traveling light, no worries – we’ve got a wide range of wetsuits available for hire for just $30. All the other gear, including your kayak, paddle, PFD, and spray skirt, will be provided by SNM.

Whether you’re a total beginner or looking to refine your skills, this course is all about building confidence, having fun, and getting you ready to explore the waters safely and responsibly. Don’t miss out – book your spot today and level up your kayaking game!

– 3hrs

– $240pp

– West Harbour Marina (meet here: 36°48’41.7″S 174°38’40.1″E)

– 08:45-11:45 and 12:15-15:15 or by negotiation

– water safety, ocean awareness

– Gear & Equipment, Weather (wind), tides, currents, swell, waves, capsizing, rescues, towing, balance, technique, stokes, other users, etc.