Ja-dai-aich Kayak Instruction on Hornby Island |
what is Paddle Canada?
This information was taken directly from the Paddle Canada website.
Since 1971, Paddle Canada has set national standards for instruction and certification for all major recreational paddling disciplines. Nearly 2,000 Paddle Canada certified instructors deliver sanctioned canoe, kayak and stand up paddleboard (SUP) courses to more than 10,000 paddlers across Canada annually. Paddle Canada certifications are nationally accredited and internationally recognized. Overview Paddle Canada Sea Kayak Skills Courses In 1971, Paddle Canada was formed to help co-ordinate the efforts of non-competitive canoeing and kayaking across Canada. From the very start, one of the long term goals of the association was the development of standard skill sets for safe and enjoyable recreational paddling; standards that could be portable and recognized anywhere in our vast and beautiful country. Paddle Canada Sea Kayak Skills Progression Overview: Basic Kayak Skills (8 hours) Introduces the novice to paddling in enclosed sheltered waters and calm conditions. Skills covered include a controlled wet exit, forward and turning strokes, and assisted re-entry. Kayak Rolling Clinic (2 hours) Introduces the novice roller to the basic mechanics involved in rolling a kayak confidently in calm conditions. Level-1 Skills (16 hours) — day-paddling skills in sheltered waters Provides the theory and skills for a day-long sea kayak trip in sheltered waters and light winds. Includes controlled wet exit, efficient forward and turning strokes, edging, introduction to bracing, unassisted re-entry, and bow rescue. Level-2 Skills (4 days) — overnight touring and intermediate boat handling Provides the theory and skills for proficient kayaking at sea in moderate open sea conditions, including overnight camping. Includes touring, risk assessment, efficient bracing, sculling for support, combined strokes, sustained paddling, introduction to rolling, kayak tripping with overnight camping, and paddling in moderate wind and sea conditions. Level-3 Skills (5 days) — seamanship and leadership in multi-day touring Provides the opportunity to develop leadership, risk-assessment, decision-making, judgment, group management, and general seamanship in the context of a multi-day journey. Level-4 Skills (5 days) — extended touring along an exposed coast Provides the theory and skills for leadership in kayaking at sea in advanced conditions, open ocean, during extended periods. Includes overnight camping, rolling at sea, surf landings, paddling in strong wind, ocean swell, and strong current. |