KAYAK INSTRUCTION
Experiencing the Pacific Northwest from sea level in a kayak fills the senses with wonder, connecting you to the natural world and cultural traditions of Puget Sound like no other. There’s a lot to learn, though, so you can safely navigate the tides and ever-changing conditions with confidence. At Whidbey Island Kayaking, our experienced instructors can teach you new skills to grow with for a lifetime of exploration and discovery. We offer both online and in-person instruction.
Intro To Kayaking
Class
The basics and a good foundation to build on!
3.5 Hours
• Ages 18+
• In-Person Class
• South Whidbey Harbor at Langley
Thinking of buying a kayak or recently purchased one? This class teaches new paddlers how to kayak safely so you can enjoy flat water environments such as lakes and protected ocean sites. You can use your own kayak or rent one of ours. Join us for a fun and informative active learning experience!
$135/student ~ Bring Your Own Kayak
$185/student ~ With $50 Kayak Rental
Sea Kayaking I
Class
Foundations of Sea Kayaking Skills
3.5 Hours
• Ages 18+
• In-Person Class
• Location Goss Lake Community Park
This class is for sea kayak paddlers who want to build a solid foundation of paddling skills so they can move from flat water paddling to sea kayaking in more dynamic conditions such as ocean waters and tidal environments. We teach this class at a local lake so people can start developing their skills in a controlled setting. This class is also great for those who need a safety refresh before getting back on the water. Feel free to bring your own sea kayak, which must have two watertight bulkheads and deck lines. Or you can rent one from us. You will be getting wet, so we recommend wearing a wetsuit, drysuit or multiple synthetic layers of clothing that drain well. This class is a prerequisite for our Sea Kayaking II and III classes.
$135/student ~ Bring Your Own Kayak
$185/student ~ With $50 Kayak Rental
Safety for Recreational Kayaks
Class
When You Don’t Know What You Don’t Know
3.5 Hours
• Ages 18+
• In-Person Class
• Location Goss Lake Community Park
This class is designed specifically for those who paddle recreational kayaks (10 to 15 feet in length with open cockpits and no rudder) on flatwater and in calm conditions on lakes, protected bays and slow-moving rivers. We will cover safety gear, preparedness and how to avoid unsafe scenarios on the water. Participants can expect to learn how to rescue themselves, how to rescue others and how to be rescued by someone else.
$135/student ~ Bring Your Own Kayak
$185/student ~ With $50 Kayak Rental
Sea Kayaking II
Class
Enhanced Sea Kayaking Skills
3.5 Hours
• Ages 18+
• In-Person Class
• Location Goss Lake Community Park
This class teaches the key techniques and paddle strokes needed for efficient sea kayaking. We teach this class at a local lake so people can learn new skills quickly and efficiently in a controlled setting. If you have your own sea kayak with two watertight bulkheads and deck lines, feel free to bring it. Or you can rent one from us. You will be getting wet, so we recommend wearing a wetsuit, drysuit or multiple layers of synthetic clothing that drain well. Participants must have recently completed our Sea Kayaking 1 class or can demonstrate that they have a rock solid wet exit and an understanding of how to do a self-rescue. This class is a prerequisite for our Sea Kayaking III class.
$135/student ~ Bring Your Own Kayak
$185/student ~ With $50 Kayak Rental
Private Kayak Lessons
We love working with you one-on-one or in small groups. We’ve assisted people preparing for international paddle trips, helped others with their first self-rescues, and have taught families how to paddle together safely. With each request for private instruction, we strive to provide an environment best for your experience, your comfort and your goals. We have multiple instructors on our team, each with their own strengths and specialties. Drysuit or wetsuit highly recommended and can be rented. Please contact us directly to discuss and schedule a private lesson.
$400/2 Hours up to 4 people
Additional Hours or Students at $75/each
Sea Kayaking III
Class
Advanced Sea Kayaking Skills
3.5 Hours
• Ages 18+
• In-Person Class
• Location determined by currents, wind, and student ability
This class offers sea kayak paddlers an opportunity to try their paddling skills in more variable ocean waters with the likelihood of wind and changing currents. Class location is a public launch on Whidbey selected for conditions that fit the skill level and goals of the students. Feel free to bring your own sea kayak if it has two watertight bulkheads and deck lines. We also have rental boats available. Participants must have recently completed our Sea Kayaking I and II class or can demonstrate that they have a rock solid self-rescue, can assist another paddler with re-entry and can comfortably maneuver their kayak. Students must wear immersion gear such as a drysuit or wetsuit.
$135/student ~ Bring Your Own Kayak
$185/student ~ With $50 Kayak Rental