In the list above the start time & date is given, and the end date only. If the end date is the same as the start date, it is a one-day course. Some courses are spread over two sessions (usually 2+ hours the first evening at a pool, then 6+ hours at lake - courses will usually start at 9 am at the lake). Click on the course of interest to get all the details specific to that course.

Paddle Canada Sea Kayak Skills Introduction to Kayaking

In the Introduction to Kayaking course we will provide you with the skills and knowledge you need to begin kayaking and set the foundation for many years of efficient, healthy, and safe paddling.  We conduct a portion of some of our courses in the pool at Harry Bailey Aquatic Centre so that you can learn in a comfortable environment.  The remaining portions of the course are conducted at a nearby lake where you get to practice what was learned in the pool and pick up a few new paddling skills as well.

Course Fee: $160.00 for courses with a pool session, or $140 for courses with no pool session.  (10% discount for current members of the Saskatoon Canoe Club and those with the Local Advantage card.)  There is also a $20 fee for kayak rental, but participants will receive a $20 gift card redeemable at Classic Outdoors, a great paddling store in Saskatoon (2225 Speers Ave).  That means you get the FULL value of your rental money back! Thanks to Classic Outdoors for making this possible!

Shore portion of a sea kayak lesson in Saskatoon.

Introduction to Kayaking lesson at Candle Lake, rescue practice.

The description below is adapted from the Paddle Canada website.

Aim

Introduction to Kayaking introduces the novice to paddling a kayak in calm sheltered water (such as sheltered portions of prairie lakes).

Rescue techniques at this level incorporate the use of a paddling partner and it is essential for all Introduction to Kayaking certified paddlers to travel on the water with others who have been trained in the techniques of assisted rescues.

Prerequisites

None.

Course length

8 hours minimum.

Class ratio

1 instructor: 6 participants.

Location

Enclosed and sheltered with easy landing options immediately present.
This course can be conducted in a pool.

Conditions

Wind calm (< 15km/hr); Water calm to rippled.

Assessment

Activities focus on individual safety and comfortable paddling along a calm shoreline. While there is a great deal to learn at this level, the activities should concentrate on personal progress and an awareness of the need for future learning. Paddlers should leave the course encouraged to continue their learning and aware of their individual limitations.

Overview