Intromediate Sea Kayaking Course: 2 Days - £160 / 5 Days - £325

Based on the North Devon coast, you will benefit from lots of kayaking instruction but also enjoy some of the finest sea kayaking in the South West as we explore the surrounding coastline in this area. The first day we will look at equipment and then get on the water. The group will have a high instructor to client ratio so you will receive personal kayak coaching throughout the course from our highly qualified and experienced sea kayak guides. North Devon is a wonderful destination for sea kayaking, and this short break is the perfect introduction to this fascinating activity, opening up the possibility of joining some of our longer sea kayak journeys and courses in the future.

The Right Course?

This course is for any flat water paddler who wishes to explore the dynamic environment of the sea. You should be confident on flat water and be able to paddle a kayak in a straight line, and paddle a course whilst using controlled turns. You should be reasonably fit and have a sense of adventure ! You will be required to fill in a medical questionnaire when booking your course. Girls only courses are available.

Course Outline

We will choose an interesting and beautiful location. Maybe we will go to Ilfracombe Harbour or Lee Bay. If conditions are not too good we can go to the Taw Estuary and get the feel of sea kayaking in a sheltered location. The first day will be spent teaching you some sea kayak specific skills such as:

Launching & landing
Turning a sea kayak
Efficient forwards paddling
Safety and rescue
Surf landings, (weather depending)
Planning a coastal journey
Basic navigation & tides
The Coastguard service

You will not be "made to capsize" but if it happens anyway (it does occasionally), you will already know what to do and we will be there to make sure that you come to no harm.

The second day will be a chance to practice your new sea kayaking skills as we journey along the North Devon Coast. With its rugged cliffs, golden sandy beaches and quaint harbours, North Devon has to be one of the most picturesque coastlines in the UK. By far the best way to see this stunning scenery is by sea kayak, no engine noise, no pollution and the satisfaction of providing your own power.

Look here to see a gallery of Intromediate Sea Kayaking course

Timings

For these trips, we usually start about 9.30am and finish about 4:30pm depending on tides, weather and how keen you are ! We start the day by checking tide and weather conditions. A coastal journey will be planned to provide a memorable and exciting day on the North Devon coast. An average of 4 to 5 hours on the water each day ensures that a quality paddle is achieved with plenty of time for instruction and to practice your new found skills or just enjoy the chance to explore this lovely part of the South West. Sea Kayaking South West will supply modern sea kayaks and safety equipment.

What To Bring

Wetsuit – for rescue training – If you do not have a wetsuit, then we can arrange hire. Please call to discuss
Clothes to paddle in – normally shorts & T shirt with a fleece etc. Please check the weather before your trip with us and dress accordingly
A change of clothes - to put on after your days paddling
A pair of old trainers / sandals / wetsuit boots etc – to paddle in
Sunscreen & sun hat
Packed lunch and a drink / some money for ice cream, coffee etc