Lessons

Kayak lessons are offered to our members 16 and up by our Paddle Canada certified instructors. First time paddlers start by learning the basics in a safety and controlled environment. Class sizes are limited to allow for personal attention from instructors. 

Private lessons can be scheduled for people with special needs or request.

What will I learn?

Instructors will explain and demonstrate the following:

  • Kayak equipment selection

  • Safety equipment requirements

  • Getting in and out of a kayak from a dock

  • Launching from a beach

Paddling techniques:

  • Forward stroke

  • Reverse stroke

  • Stopping

  • Sweep Stroke

  • Draw Stroke

  • Kayak control

Basic Rescue Technics:

  • Exiting a kayak into the water (wet exit)

  • Assisted rescue (helping a friend into a kayak from the water)

To get a sense of what our lessons entail, we encourage members to view this video.

Equipment

As a club member you will have free access to all kayaking equipment during the lesson.  A few things for participants to bring are swimwear, towel, water shoes, a lock to secure your valuables in our lockers.     

Activity Co-Chairs

 

Norman Lafleur

I am delighted to return to the club after a 3-year hiatus as the volunteer Chairperson of the kayak section. My first encounter with kayaking was as a new member of the club 20 years ago when I took my first kayak lesson. Over the years, I have attended numerous clinics and lessons, which have led me to become a Paddle Canada Instructor in sea kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding. 

This season, I am interested in organizing social paddling events for club members, including kayaking day trips to locations other than Ramsey Lake, which has always been a popular event. I welcome your suggestions on kayak lessons, day trips, skills clinics, social paddling events, or any general comments that will help make this a successful kayaking season. 

Register!

Register for a kayak lesson in order to get certified to use the sea kayaks and related equipment at the club. 

  • Duration is approximately 3hrs in length

  • Cost of the lesson is $50

  • Pre-registration is required

Click “Register Now” to join the fun!

Email sudburycanoeclubon@gmail.com (Subject: Sea Kayaking Inquiry) to schedule a date!