Summary

Intermediate Kayaking Skills

Prices From	USD$ $75.00
1st Departure	01.01.0001
Provider	Charles River Canoe/Weston Ski
Destination	Charles River
Duration	Three-Hour Class
Challenge	Intermediate
Avg Rating	Not Rated

This three-hour class consists of three parts: strokes development and maneuvering, bracing, and rescues. During the first portion we will extend your knowledge of an efficient forward stroke, sweep strokes for turning, and boat lean for maneuvering.

The second portion covers the use of paddle braces. You'll learn how to use your paddle to improve your stability and help prevent a capsize. Good bracing skills help to prevent capsizes, thereby allowing you to paddle with more confidence in a wider variety of conditions.

The final portion of the class covers rescues and capsize-recovery techniques. If you or a partner does capsize, the ability to quickly execute a wide variety of re-entries is critical for safety. Because of their value and importance, all kayakers should know and regularly practice these skills. Therefore, we designed this clinic to provide plenty of opportunity for individual practice.

Intermediate Kayaking Skills is designed for those with some paddling experience who are looking for a thorough review and in-water practice of bracing, assisted re-entries, and self-rescues. While our Introduction to Kayaking or similar class is recommended, it is not required. Anyone who has taken no formal paddling instruction will benefit from this class.

Intermediate Kayaking Skills is a perfect preparation for those who wish to take our Ocean Skills trips or other Level 2 sea kayaking trips. The clinic is held at our Newton Boathouse.

The price includes three hours of instruction, complimentary use of a plastic sea kayak, one week of unlimited on-site practice time at any of our locations, and borrowing privileges from our video library.

Itinerary

Gear List

Releases All participants will be required to sign a waiver and release of liability before participating in this event. A copy of the release can be downloaded from our <a href="http://www.paddleboston.com/resources/releases/activrelease.pdf">web page</a>. If you have problems downloading the release we would be happy to send you a copy. Please read it over carefully and give us a call or e-mail if you have any questions. Bring the completed release with you on the day of your first class. Check In Please check in at the front desk when you arrive for your class. Before you check in, please park your car in the parking lot across the river. For directions see our <a href="http://www.paddleboston.com/newton/directions.php">web page</a>. Please arrive at least 20 minutes before your class is scheduled to begin. What To Wear The purpose of Intermediate Kayaking Skills is to practice rescues and re-entries, so plan to get wet. You will need to dress accordingly. In the summer, shorts and a T-shirt over a bathing suit often times will be adequate. However, in slightly cooler weather, you will want to avoid cotton and wear synthetic materials such as polypro, capilene, or fleece. The addition of a lightweight nylon shell or paddling jacket (which we can provide) is recommended for cooler days. For colder times or if you tend to get cold easily, we can provide you a farmerjohn wetsuit and paddling jacket at no charge. We also have a limited selection of drysuits (the ultimate in cold-water or cold-weather comfort -- much nicer than a wetsuit) available for a fee.On your feet, wear aqua socks, neoprene booties, or water sports sandals (e.g. Tevas).  Old sneakers can also be worn if the former items are not available.  If you wear glasses, you will need a retaining strap easily purchased at the Newton Boathouse or at any sporting goods store. Bring a towel and a change of clothes to wear after class. Free Practice Time At the end of your first class, we will give you a Class Practice Pass. This pass, valid at any of our locations, will provide you with free on-site use of a kayak for one week starting from your class date. To take out a kayak, just present this pass at the rental desk anytime we are open. Please take full advantage of this benefit, as it will allow you to work on and improve the skills learned in class. Video Library During your 1-week practice period, you may also enjoy borrowing privileges from our video library. The videos cover topics from basic paddle strokes to rescues, Eskimo rolling, and kayak surfing. By viewing the variety of kayak videos we offer, you can enhance your knowledge of the sport and build upon practical experiences learned during class. Weather Kayaking can be done in almost any weather, and, accordingly, classes run rain or shine. Only in the case of extreme weather conditions, such as a thunderstorm, will we postpone classes. Postponement decisions will be made two hours before the class starts. Please call us if you are unsure whether a class will run. As mentioned above, we can provide you a wetsuit and paddling jacket at no charge, which will keep you much more comfortable in inclement weather.  You'll also want to bring a hat to keep the rain off. Cell Phones & Smoking Charles River Canoe & Kayak operates all of our classes and trips in a smoke free environment. We also ask that all of our participants refrain from cell phone use during their class. Your cooperation is appreciated.

Travel Information

Activity Location

Newton Boathouse on Comm. Ave; Newton, MA
2401 Commonwealth Ave
Newton, MA 02466 USA