AN INTRODUCTION TO SAFE SEA KAYAKING
(one-day course)
The rapid growth of sea kayaking has seen many getting on the water for the first time, using this fitness based, cost effective means of transport.
Whereas most learn small boat skills with a yacht club, sea scouts or some other
group, sea kayaking is lacking any specialised training programme.
Many are just buying the boats and learning through trial and error, a potentially
costly way in an uncompromising environment.
At Cable Bay Kayaks we have over 15 years of commercial
sea kayak experience. We know the problems the novice faces and can assist the
more experienced paddler to advanced level.
Cable Bay Kayaks is run by Nick Woods who has 40 years experience
in both sailing and kayaking around the local coastline. He is a member of KASK,
and SKOANZ, holder of the SKOANZ Level One Guide Certificate has Boat Master,
Yacht Master and approximately 5 years sea time as well as Sea Survival and
current Medical Certificates.
The Cable/Delaware area provides the most diverse paddling conditions around
with tidal currents and overfalls, frequent surf and many caves and corridors
to test boat handling skills.
We also have a wide range of boats and accessories for you to compare if you
are intending to buy or upgrade your boat.
In summary this course will increase your confidence and enjoyment of sea kayaking.
Course Outline
* Introductions — followed by a brief outline:
- Boat Design / Maintenance / Essential Features
- Paddles
- Accessories
- Safety Equipment
- Emergency equipment
* Preparation:
- Trip planning
- Transport of kayaks / Packing boats
- Weather appraisal. Forecast / Visual
- Group dynamics — Leader selection etc
- Risk Management
- Contingency Plans
- Clothing
- Environmental responsibility
* Practical Paddle Skills:
- Launching and Landing
- Basic Paddle Strokes
- Boat set-up / pedals / spray decks hatches, etc
- Power stroke
- Stop / Reverse
- Sweeps
- Braces
- Stern Rudder
- Draw
- Sculling Draw / Brace
- Railing
* Discussion on Rescue Techniques - Followed By Practical Session:
- Assisted
- Rafting / Towing
- TX
- Others eg. Eskimo 'Hand Up'
- Unassisted
- Rolling / Re entry roll
- Paddle Floats
* Discussion on coastal weather patterns, tides etc (using Cable and Delaware Bay as model)
- During this session paddlers can expect to encounter some adverse conditions:
- Wind
- Waves
- Current
- Surge
- Overfalls
- Confined spaces / Corridors / Caves
- Discussion on how to deal with these ‘ bogeys ’ will take place enroute
* Discussion To Cover Further Instruction
- Advanced paddling course
- KASK endorsement
- SKOANZ
* Return To Base
N.B: The format may be altered for weather, tides & group requirement, etc
Important additional information
- Please bring own lunch & drink for the day
- What To Wear
- Polyprops or wetsuit if you have one, (not essential)
- Most importantly - a change of clothes for end of the day on return to base
- We have Paddle Jackets, polyprops, aqua shoes and a few wetsuits
Please advise if you need to use any these items
Our Introductory One-Day course: Cost
$150 per person.
$275 (Couple)
- Group discount ( 10% for groups 6 or more)
- Individual one day tuition $250
A deposit of $50 is required to confirm booking
For further information please contact NICK WOODS:
Phone +64 3 545 0332
email nick.cablebaykayaks@clear.net.nz