Alaska Kayak School Calendar

Sea Kayaking Skills Training Weekends @ Halibut Cove & Cook Inlet 2011

American Canoe Association

Coastal Kayak Training and Assessment Level 1-4

• 29 April-1 May • 6-9 May • 12-16 May • 21-23 May •

Start the paddling season with a comprehensive training and assessment program tailored your level of sea kayaking skills

These sea skills training weekends are the “cat’s meow” of spring sea kayak training. We camp in scenic Halibut Cove for the weekend to enjoy the natural beauty of Kachemak Bay State Park and to gain easy access to this stunning training site.

In this natural setting, you can develop or tune your sea kayaking skills in anticipation of a busy summer’s paddling. These weekend training sessions are the perfect follow-up to the winter pool training sessions. Professional instructors of the American Canoe Association and British Canoe Union that have been teaching paddling in Alaska for over 15 years guide your fun and training.

If you’re a beginner, you get to practice al the basics in real conditions and all the protective clothing needed to maximize your safety, comfort and learning. If you’re a more experienced & skilled paddler, this is a chance to have a coach help you tune and enhance your skills.

You are coached at the level of your skill. We follow the skills progressions of the American Canoe Association and the British Canoe Union, so get ready for some serious fun and learning in a stunning setting. Saturday is a day for strokes and maneuvers; Sunday is a day for rescues and recoveries. Saturday night lecture on sea kayak navigation and trip planning.

We provide: All kayaking instruction and equipment can be provided. Kokatat dry suits, kayaks by Nigel Dennis, Valley, and North Shore, paddles by Werner and Lendal, Snap Dragon skirts, etc. You will use he best gear in the industry.

You Provide:Water taxi fees ($85rt), all camping gear, food and water + personal camping supplies, some rustic accommodations in a yurt are available, please ask.

When:

“Ice-breaker” Coastal Kayak Training & Assessment, Levels 1-3

29 April-May 2 Friday-Sunday (Monday option)

“Post-Ice-breaker” Coastal Kayak Training & Assessment, Levels 1-3

May 6-9, Friday-Sunday (Monday option)

“Mid-May Mania”

Coastal Kayak Training & Assessment, Levels 1-3

May 12-16, Friday-Sunday; no Monday option

“Full-on May” Coastal Kayak Training and Assessment, Levels 1-3

May 20-23 (no Monday option)

Coastal Kayak Level 4 Training – Kachemak Bay-Cook Inlet

May 20-23 (no Monday option)

Sample Itinerary:

Day 1 – leave Homer Spit on water taxi and make camp in Halibut Cove:

Day 2– Kayak strokes and maneuvers;

Day 3 – Sea Kayak rescues and towing,;

Day 4– Sea Kayak navigation, practical and applied;

Other days of skills training added as appropriate.

Last Day includes a late afternoon pickup for water taxi ride back to Homer Spit.

Where:Halibut Cove, Kachemak Bay, Alaska

Times:Meet on Homer Spit ready to depart on water taxi, 430 PM Fridays, & return to Homer Spit by 6 PM on Sundays.

Fees for Halibut Cove Weekend Skills Courses

• Instruction and all gear - $150/1 day & $285/2 days + $135/additional days

• Instruction & kayak or dry suit - $135/1 day, $ 265/2days + $125/ additional days

• Instruction only - $110/1day, $200 2/days + $100/additional days

• Homer Sales tax applies, 7.5%.

• Water taxi to Halibut Cove - $85 rt payable to Mako’s Water Taxi, tax included.

More information: Contact [email protected], (907) 235-2090, (online registration)[email protected],; 50% deposit, a completed registration form, terms and conditions and medical history establishes your reservation. Balance is due 30 days before the program on 12 April. Email or call for more information. Please contact us for more information and copies of the forms needed.

American Canoe Association Day Trip Leader Assessment

Course, Thursday 12 May through Monday 16 May

Sea Kayak Guide Certification Program for Alaska

Perfect for would-be guides and any individual interested in developing trip leading skills in mild conditions, i.e., winds 10 knots or less, waves 1.5 ft. or less. This is not only appropriate for guides and trip leaders, it is an ideal course for anyone interested in the nuts and bolts of sea kayak trip planning. This 4-day course in an all-inclusive skills training and safety education program emphasizing effective strokes & maneuvers, rescues and recoveries, sea kayak navigation, trip planning, & leadership. American Canoe Association membership and other fees apply if you want to get the Trip Leading certification. This is not an instructor course; it is a trip-leading course. A written exam is required for the certification.

We provide: all instruction by ACA instructors. You can save some $$ if you have your own kayaking gear, including dry suit, sea kayak and all safety accessories, please contact us for a complete gear list.

You provide: water taxi fee (or your own transportation), camping gear, your own food and water, and personal clothing, kayak and gear if you have it. Contact us for a detailed equipment list.

When: Thursday May 12^th through Monday, May 16^th

Sample Itinerary:

Day 1 - Thursday May 12^th, meet on Homer Spit for water taxi departure between 3-5 PM; Day 2 - Friday – introduction and sea kayak strokes and maneuvers;

Day 3 - Saturday – sea kayak rescues and strokes and maneuvers review;

Day 4 - Sunday – sea kayak navigation, trip planning and leadership strategies;

Day 5- – Monday Leadership scenarios, written exam and debriefs, water taxi back to Homer Spit by 6 PM, or earlier if possible.

Where: Halibut Cove, Alaska

Pre-requisites: Can follow verbal instructions, fundamental sea kayaking skills, and confident wet exit with a skirt.

Fees:

• Instruction & Gear – 4 days, $550

• Instruction and Kayak - $475, in case you have your own dry suit

• Instruction and Drysuit - $475, in case you have your own kayak

• ACA membership, $40/person is required to participate

• $25/person certification fee required if you pass the course

• * Homer sales tax, 7.5% applies to instruction and equipment fees

Registration and more information: Alaska Kayak School (907) 235-2090, [email protected], (online registration) ; 50% deposit, a completed registration form, terms and conditions and medical history establishes your reservation. Balance is due 30 days before the program on 12 April. Email or call for more information.

For details on this course from the American Canoe Association Website see here: http://www.americancanoe.org/site/c.lvIZIkNZJuE/b.4511319/k.A4B4/Coastal_Kayaking.htm

June, July & August

Whittier Whiplash

Beginner-Intermediate Sea Kayaking Skills

Level 1-3 Weekend

4-5 June 2011, Whittier, Alaska

Saturday, 4 June

Introduction or tuning Coastal Kayaking Skills levels 1-2
Coastal Kayaking Level 3 Skills Training – strokes and maneuvers.

Sunday, 5 June

Introduction to Sea Kayak Rescues, towing, and more skills, Coastal Kayaking levels 2-3
Coastal Kayaking Skills Level 3, rescues and towing in easy sea conditions.

Introduction and Summary

Spend a weekend in scenic Portage Valley and/or Passage Canal by Whittier, Alaska, in early June developing, tuning, and practicing effective sea kayaking skills under the guidance of certified Coastal Kayaking instructors of the American Canoe Association and coaches in the British Canoe Union. Get ready for a summer of paddling!

The weekend consists of a comprehensive introduction and review of strokes & maneuvers, rescues, recoveries, and towing. We are offering two sets of courses:

• Foundation Skills - 1 day of strokes and maneuvers, 1 day of rescues, Coastal Kayaking levels 1-2

• Improver-Intermediate Skills – 1 day of strokes and maneuvers, 1 day of rescues in winds less than 15 knots and seas less than 3 ft.

For beginners and novices, flat water is the best place to develop and tune beginner and intermediate skills including strokes, maneuvers, and rescues. Calm water allows you to focus on safe and effective mechanics of the skills. This will be a fun weekend full of opportunities for sea kayaking skill development leading to becoming a competent independent paddler, so we hope you can join us. If we have calm weather in Passage canal we can move the training course to Whittier and Passage Canal.

For paddlers that have solid beginner skills, spending a day working on additional strokes and maneuvers and paddling in light winds and small waves is an ideal stepping stone after developing sound flat water (level 1-2) skills. Our goal is to give the improvers a chance to work on their skills and rescues in easy conditions with winds less than 15-knot winds and seas less than 3’. Since the starting point for Level 3 training are Level 2 skills, we will use this opportunity to conduct a level 2 assessment for the improving paddlers.

Whittier Whiplash

Course Descriptions

To obtain a reservation for the 2011 Whiplash,
please submit a registration form and method payment to secure your spot.

1. Beginner-Intermediate (Level 1-3) Skills training and tuning. Learn or practice @ safety features and design of kayaks and kayaking equipment, fit to boat, wet exits, and paddling without a rudder, turning and spinning the kayak, back paddling, stopping, ruddering, moving sideways, edging, balance and bracing, and simple rescues (assisted and solo). All equipment can be provided, or get credit for having your own gear. Equipment provided includes: sea kayak, paddle, skirt, PFD, dry suit, and more. You provide your own clothing, food, water, and other necessities. An equipment list will be sent upon registration.

When: Saturday 4 June 2009, 9 AM – 5 PM

Where: Portage Ponds are an ideal location for this fun course, meet at Begich Boggs Visitor Center Parking Lot.

Pre-requisites: Can swim, follow verbal instructions, and are willing to capsize.

Cost: $160/person + sale tax (3%) w/ credit card, check/cash discount $155/day + 3% sale tax; partial credit given if you provide your own gear (contact us for details).

Registration: Pre-register now - Alaska Kayak School, PO Box 3547, Homer, Alaska 99603, (907) 235-2090, [email protected], (online registration)

2. Coastal Kayaking Level 3 Skills Training – strokes & maneuvers. Increase your awareness and repertoire of strokes and maneuvers and refine your performance. Develop increased torso rotation for turns and moving sideways, increase the role of edging for assistance in turning, develop increased blade awareness and the effectiveness of your forward paddling. Develop precision while back paddling. Refine the effectiveness of you bracing and recovery strokes. Since this class’s starting point are Coastal Kayaking Level 2 skills, we can use this level 3 class to assess your level 2 skills, if you haven’t done so already.

When: Saturday 4 June 2009, 9 AM – 5 PM

Where: We’re hoping to run this class in Passage Canal as long as the weather cooperates. Portage Ponds can be used if Whittier it too windy (over 10-15 knots) for this fun course, stay tuned for meeting location.

Pre-requisites: Coastal Kayak Level 2 skills

Cost: $160/person + sale tax (3%) w/ credit card, check/cash discount $155/day + 3% sale tax; partial credit given if you provide your own gear (contact us for details).

Registration: Pre-register now - Alaska Kayak School, PO Box 3547, Homer, Alaska 99603, (907) 235-2090, [email protected],(online registration)

3. Coastal Kayak Level 1-3 Rescues, more skills, & towing. Learn and practice solo and assisted rescues and towing, the keystones of sea kayak rescues skills. This course builds on the first day of skills training to hone and add to the first day’s skills with self and assisted rescues and towing thrown in for good measure. All equipment can be provided. Flat water is an ideal environment for learning and honing level 1-3 sea kayak rescues and maneuvering skills.

When: Sunday 5 June 2009, 9 AM – 5 PM

Where: Portage Ponds.

Pre-requisites: Fundamental Sea Kayaking Skills instruction in the last 6 months.

Cost: $160/person + sale tax (3%) w/ credit card, check/cash discount $155/day + 3% sale tax; partial credit given if you provide your own gear (contact us for details).

Registration: Pre-register now. Alaska Kayak School, PO Box 3547, Homer, Alaska 99603, (907) 235-2090, [email protected], (online registration)

4. Coastal Kayak Level 3-4 Rescues, more skills, & towing. Our goal is to give the level 3 students a chance to go on a trip in light winds and small waves, and do solo rescues, assisted rescues and towing in conditions along the way while tuning their level 3 strokes and maneuvers.. The above will only be possible if we get a forecast for winds less than 10-15 knots and seas less than 2-3’.

When: Sunday 5 June 2009, 9 AM – 5 PM

Where: Passage Canal or Portage Ponds.

Pre-requisites: Level 2 Coastal Kayaking Skills

Cost: $160/person + sale tax (3%) w/ credit card, check/cash discount $155/day + 3% sale tax; partial credit given if you provide your own gear (contact us for details).

Registration: Pre-register now. Alaska Kayak School, PO Box 3547, Homer, Alaska 99603, (907) 235-2090, [email protected],(online registration)

Novice and beginner paddling skills
Introduction to Paddling – aka “Messing Around in Boats” • Homer
Learn and practice a variety of paddling skills & rescues in a variety of craft
June 8, 15, 18, 22; July 6, 13, 20, 27; & August 3, 10, 17, 24, & 31.

Learn and practice fundamental paddling skills in a variety of paddle craft: solo and tandem open canoes, river kayaks, double and single sea kayaks, & sit on top kayaks. Learn & practice a variety of useful maneuvers and rescues during this fun day of variety and skill building. You will learn basic water safety, dressing for immersion, cold-water safety, paddling forward, back, stopping, moving sideways, turning and spinning a variety of craft. You will learn hoe to do rescues and be rescued following an unplanned capsize. If you are a single discipline paddler, for example a sea kayaker, you will reap benefits of cross training by learning skills in a new craft, say a river kayak or an open canoe, and improve the fundamental skills of your primary paddle craft.

We provide:All leadership, instruction, and all sea kayaking gear, including sea kayak & gear, as well as personal protective gear for training, Kokatat Gore-tex dry suits, booties, helmets, gloves, and all other needed safety equipment.

You provide:Personal clothing, food and water, and enthusiasm for learning.

When: Wednesdays, 9 AM – 5 PM.
June 8, 15, 18, 22; July 6, 13, 20, 27; & August 3, 10, 17, 24, & 31.
Can be scheduled any day we’re not busy, please call for availability.

Where: Freshwater lake near Homer.

Pre-requisites: Can swim and follow verbal instructions. This course is suitable for young paddlers that can fit into immersion suits, > 4’6” and taller normally, call for more information about youngsters attending the class.

Fees: $150/adult (sales tax included), $125/youngsters <18 yo. All equipment provided including Kokatat immersion wear, helmets, personal flotation devices and more. We can provide group rate for groups of 6 or more.

Registration: Advance registration is essential.
Call 907.235.2090, email [email protected], (online registration).
Some form of payment is needed to secure your reservation, leave a credit/check card on our secure server, we won’t run your card without your approval, you can also use PayPal, please email us for details.

Cancellation policy and refunds: Once you sent a registration form in, or have called to register by phone, we’ll send you the cancelation policy, waiver and medical form, which you can return signed with payment, or authorization to run your card.

2011 Cooper Landing Splash @ Kenai Lake
Beginner Kayaking Skills (level 1-2)
June 11 & 12

Learn and practice fundamental sea kayaking skills, Coastal Kayaking level 1-2: strokes and maneuvers, rescues and recoveries, cold water immersion, seas kayak safety, & equipment selection in a scenic setting, Kenai Lake. Protected waters off the Quartz Creek campground and boat launch provide a perfect venue to learn important sea kayaking skills over a weekend. Day 1 will be primarily strokes and maneuvers, while the second day will emphasize rescues, while continuing to expand on strokes and maneuvers.

Download Coastal Kayak Level 2 Syllabus

You provide:Personal clothing, food and water, and enthusiasm for learning.

When: 11-12 June 2011, Saturday Sunday, 9 AM – 5 PM.
Can be scheduled any weekend we’re not busy, minimum group size 4 students. Please call for availability. 907.235.2090

Where: Kenai Lake, Cooper Landing, Quartz Creek Campground/boat ramp.

Fees: $295/adult (sales tax included), $250/youngsters <18 yo. All equipment provided including Kokatat immersion wear, sea kayaks and all gear, paddles, PFDs, helmets, personal flotation devices and more.

Introduction to Sea Kayak Camping
Kenai Lake
June 11-13, July 9-11, August 7-9

You have basic (beginner) sea kayaking skills (levels 1-2, see below) and want to learn how to do overnight camping trips out of your sea kayak. Doing a point-to-point trip on Kenai Lake is a great way to get started. Wind and waves as a possible challenge, but there are no tides, and no ocean swell. This is the simplest possible journey: wind & waves, time & distance are our variables for traveling. This gives time to focus on learning sea kayak camping, paddling, & rescue skills in a relaxed setting. Selecting gear, packing the boat, navigation and trip planning, plus any skills tuning that is needed along the way will be our agenda. To help you develop your sea kayaking skills, we can do a Coastal Kayaking Level 2 skills tuning and assessment on the trip. Coastal Kayaking skills Kayaking levels 2-3 will be our training agenda. Custom training sessions will be offered to address any skills needed/wanted along the way. This course can be run as a two-day (weekend) or three-day long weekend, either Saturday-Monday or Saturday and Sunday. Small group size and low student/instructor ratio makes for an intimate student-based learning program.

You provide:Personal clothing, camping gear, food and water, etc. If you have all the sea kayaking gear (ask for a list), we will provide a $50 discount. You will need dry bags, and we have a few, we can provide you a set for $50.

Download Coastal Kayak Level 2 Syllabus

Sample itinerary
Day 1. Saturday
9 AM -Do the shuttle, get ready, pack at the boats, & paddle to first camp, 2-3 hrs.
Day 2. Sunday
Paddle from first to second camp, 3-4 hrs.
Day 3. Monday
Paddle from second campsite to take out, 2-3 hrs., with time to do the shuttle and start home.

Pre-requisites: Level 2 Coastal Kayaking Skills, and ability to follow verbal instructions.
Where: to be announced, on the shores of Kenai Lake

Costs **
2 day Journey - $310 per person including sea kayak & gear, tax included.
3 day Journey - $412 per person in including sea kayak & gear, tax included.
** 4-person minimum, 3-person courses possible call for price.

Registration and Reservations: Pre-registration is necessary.Call 907.235.2090, email [email protected], (online registration), payment needed to complete reservation, 50% deposit with registration form starts reservation, balance due 30 days before trip. Waiver, medical history, and terms and conditions documents, cancelation policy, and equipment lists will be sent to you after you make an inquiry or send a registration form. Some form of payment is needed to secure your reservation, leave a credit/check card on our secure server or call with payment information, you can also use PayPal, please call or email for details.

Family Paddling
Canoe & Kayak Paddling Skills for Parents and their Kids

This is a class for parents to practice paddling skills and leadership issues that will benefit then when taking their kids paddling. We will coach your skills so that you can have effective pre-trip planning, trip planning, maneuvering, and rescue skills that directly apply to paddling as family. If your youngsters are large enough to fit in immersion suits, then they can also join the fun. This is not a class for any single paddling discipline, we can run the class in tandem canoes, sea kayaks or river kayaks. Your choice, or sample more than one craft, super fun !!

We provide: All leadership, instruction, and paddling equipment including dry or immersion suits to protect from cold shock and hypothermia. The immersion suits give us the ability to have realistic practice drills.

You provide: Enthusiasm for learning, personal clothing to wear in the dry suit, emphasizing synthetic materials such as capilene, fleece, and organic materials such as Smartwool, Ice-breakers, etc. We will send out a list. But for sure, no cotton clothing.

When??
Any day we are not otherwise engaged, so please call or email for availability, advance planning is best, we are often booked months in advance. 907.235.2090

Where: Calm and protected water near Homer.

Pre-requisites: This class is suitable for adults and youngsters > 70 lbs, and 4’8” in height that can swim and follow verbal instructions. Must be coachable. Please call with questions, 907.235.2090

Fees: $135/person/day (sales tax included). All equipment provided including Kokatat immersion wear, sea kayaks and all gear, paddles, PFDs, helmets, personal flotation devices and more. ** Minimum group size 4 students. Please call for availability or small-group (<3) pricing, 907.235.2090

Novice & Beginner Sea Kayaking Skills
Coastal Kayak Level 1-2 Training & Assessments
• Homer • Whittier • Anchorage •
June 11-12, 25-26; July 9-10, 16-17, 23-24, 30-31; August 6-7, 13-14, 20-21, 27-28

Download Coastal Kayak Level 2 Syllabus

You provide:Personal clothing, food and water, and enthusiasm for learning.

When: Any 1-2 day period we’re free. Try these dates out, June 11-12, 25-26; July 9-10, 16-17, 23-24, 30-31; August 6-7, 13-14, 20-21, 27-28; 9 AM – 5 PM.
Can be scheduled any weekend we’re not busy, ** minimum group size 4 students. Please call for availability or small-group (<3) pricing, 907.235.2090

Where: Any body of sheltered water: Homer, Cooper Landing, Whittier (Portage) & Anchorage **

Pre-requisites: Can swim and follow verbal instructions. This course is suitable for adults and young paddlers that can fit into immersion suits, > 4’6” and taller normally, call for more information about youngsters attending the class.
Fees: $155/adult (sales tax included), $135/youngsters <18 yo. All equipment provided including Kokatat immersion wear, sea kayaks and all gear, paddles, PFDs, helmets, personal flotation devices and more.

Intermediate Sea Kayaking Skills Training
Coastal Kayak Level 3 Training & Assessments – • Homer • Whittier • Anchorage
June 11-12, 25-26; July 9-10, 16-17, 23-24, 30-31; August 6-7, 13-14, 20-21, 27-28
** Or any 1-3 days you and your group want to schedule level 3 training**

This is one of the most interesting training courses in sea kayaking. Level 3 kayaking skills include all of the strokes and maneuvers, self and assisted rescues, towing, and Eskimo rolling in sheltered water. It’s just you, the paddle, the kayak, your gear, & the water. But it’s more than that. This is the widest range of skills that prepare you for paddling in wind and waves, tidal streams, surf, & rock gardens. In level 3 training you learn the nitty gritty of all the strokes and maneuvers, and become familiar with a wide array of rescues and towing – in sheltered water.

In the process of level 3 training you develop an understanding and appreciation of the hydrodynamics of the kayak and paddle. This understanding allows you to proactively tune your performance in different conditions. In level 3 training you also become aware of the basics of trip planning and navigation, and are developing the ability to paddle and do rescues in mild-to moderate conditions, waves 1-2 feet, winds up to 10 knots or so.

The consequences of successful level 3 training are almost instantaneous: more confident edging and better balance, increased efficiency of forward paddling, controlled back paddling, quality draw stroke, efficient rescue & towing skills. Bow and stern rudder, side-slip, Eskimo rescues, effective bracing, crisp edging and turning, blending of strokes, and excellent group awareness are all part of the level 3 program.

There’s no way to sugar coat it, level 3 skills prepare you for the more demanding conditions of level 4 paddling, wind over 10 knots waves over 3 feet and tidal streams over 2 knots. If you have basic control of your kayak and can self-rescue and be rescued in flat water, then level 3 training is for you.

Download Coastal Kayak Level 3 syllabus here
We provide:All leadership, instruction, and all sea kayaking gear, including sea kayak & gear, as well as personal protective gear for training, Kokatat Gore-tex dry suits, booties, helmets, gloves, and all other needed safety gear.

You provide:Personal clothing, may need sea kayak camping gear, food and water, etc. If you have all the sea kayaking gear (ask for a list), we can provide a discount.

When**: June 4-5, 11-12, 25-26; July 9-10, 16-17, 23-24, 30-31; August 6-7, 13-14, 20-21, 27-28. Note: Level 3 is a very large body of skill and information, two days is a good start on this level of training, but it can take more than two days to complete training for all of the level 3 skills. Any part of the level 3 training course can be run on any 1-3 days with a minimum of 4 students.

Level 3 Assessments: Level 3 Assessments can be accomplished in 1 day, especially on a day trip on the ocean. Please contact us for details. 907.235.2090, [email protected]

Where: Sheltered water Homer, Whittier or Anchorage.

Pre-requisites: Level 2 coastal kayaking skills, contact us for details or download level 2 syllabus here.

Fees: $105/day for instruction; total gear package $50/day (sea kayak, paddle, dry suit etc.), Full meal deal, including instruction & gear $150/day. ACA membership needed for assessments.

Open Water Sea Kayaking Skills Training
Coastal Kayak Level 4 Training & Assessments – • Homer • Seward
June 17-19, July 15-17, 29-31; August 12-14, 27-28

You have developed your flat water sea kayaking skills to a fine art, have mastered Coastal Kayaking Level 3 skills, have a safe flat water roll, and want to spread your wings into open water sea kayaking and open water sea kayak leadership. Level 4 skills training consists of practicing and becoming comfortable in the performance of all the level 3 skills in moderate conditions, force 4 winds (11-16 knots), sea state 4 (waves to 3’), surf to 3’, and tidal streams to 4 knots. In addition, level 4 is about having the knowledge and perspective to plan a trip in moderate conditions, and take responsibility for some aspect of the leadership of the group. To succeed in level four conditions, you need to be comfortable with your level 3 skills.

Download Coastal Kayak Level 4 syllabus here
We provide:All leadership, instruction, and all sea kayaking gear, including sea kayak & gear, as well as personal protective gear for training, Kokatat Gore-tex dry suits, booties, helmets, gloves, and all other needed safety gear.

You provide:Personal clothing, may need sea kayak camping gear, food and water, etc. If you have all the sea kayaking gear (ask for a list), we can provide a discount.

When: June 17-19, July 15-17, 29-31; August 12-14, 27-28.
Note: It can be difficult or impossible to get all the conditions in one location to train in all the environments needed for level 4 training, but wind, waves and current are almost a constant in Kachemak Bay/Cook Inlet, while wind, waves and swell are common in Seward. We may have access to a training sweet site in Cook Inlet that would require a water taxi at least one way, perhaps a round trip, this may add some cost, but give access to a wider range of conditions.

Option: Four to 6-day level 4 training sea kayak trip in Kachemak Bay and Cook Inlet, call for more information, (907) 235-2090.

Where: Open Water environments Kachemak Bay, Resurrection Bay & Cook Inlet.

Pre-requisites: Level 3 sea kayaking skills. NOTE: If you haven’t mastered level 3 skills, consider additional level 3 training. We are happy to work with you so you can achieve proficiency at level 3 & 4, please contact us to help you develop a training plan. 907.235.2090, [email protected]

Fees: $105/day for instruction; total gear package $50/day (sea kayak, paddle, dry suit etc.), Full meal deal, including instruction and gear $150/day. ACA membership needed for assessments. Any water taxi fees, which will be known in advance, will be the responsibility of the students.

Summer Instructional Tours
Homer & Whittier, June 18-22, July 13-17, August 26-30

Coastal features and marine weather interact to force all sea kayakers to make trip-planning decisions. This is a sea kayak camping trip designed to help you tune your paddling skills while focusing on the trip planning and camping aspects of multi-day sea journey. Selecting gear, packing a boat, navigation and trip planning, and group dynamics. Offered as a 4 night-5day course, the first day is spent selecting gear and test packing your boats, the next 4 days are spent traveling and camping learning as you go. This is a perfect course if you have developed fundamental (level 2+) paddling skills and want to learn sea kayak tripping skills on a multi-day journey. You need to be able to paddle in winds to 10-15 knots and rain. You might have to camp in the rain. The payoff? You learn all the tricks from experienced sea kayak campers and instructors.

Download Coastal Kayak Level 2 Syllabus

Sample itinerary
Day 1.
Meet, select equipment test pack boats, finish shopping, take water taxi to first campsite.
Day 2.
We’ll a navigation and trip planning primer course in the morning after break fast, and we’ll go on a day trip to work on wind and wave paddling skills, camp in same location, campsite 1.
Day 3.
Move to campsite 2, paddle 6-10 miles, and make an effort to time our move to take advantage of any conditions that can assist us on our journey.
Day 4.
Move to campsite 3 and get within 1 days paddle of our destination being mindful of that the conditions will be favorable to make it to the take out. Take advantage of any conditions that can assist us on our journey.
Day 5.
Paddle to the take out or go on a day trip and be back in time to be picked up by the water taxi at the end of our journey.

Pre-requisites: Level 2 Coastal Kayaking Skills, wilderness camping experience, and ability to follow verbal instructions, ability to paddle 4-6 hrs per day.
Where: Homer or Whittier

Costs **
5 day Journey - $612 per person including kayaking gear, water taxi & tax
** 4-person minimum, 3-person courses possible call for price.

Registration and Reservations: Pre-registration is necessary. Call 907.235.2090, email [email protected], (online registration), payment needed to complete reservation, a 50% deposit with registration form starts your reservation, balance due 30 days before trip. Waiver, medical history, and terms and conditions documents and equipment lists will be sent to you after you make an inquiry or send in a registration form.

Kings Bay Expedition
Prince William Sound – June 18-25, July 22-28, August 20-26

Kings Bay is a wilderness destination that offers stunning scenery in a remote setting. Regardless of your paddling skills, you will be wowed; there is a breathtaking vista in every direction. We start with a short water taxi ride and some dedicated paddling to get deep in Nellie Juan Fjord. A visit to scenic Nellie Juan Glacier and Derickson Lagoon are probably inevitable, but the main prize, Kings Bay awaits. This is a Prince William Sound paddling wilderness classic. If you have basic paddling skills and can paddle for 4-6 hour per day, and have some wilderness camping skills, this is a dream trip. Since all our guides are instructors, you can count on taking advantage of their teaching to hone paddling skills as needed. Coastal Kayaking Skills assessments may be possible on the trips. Low client:guide/instructor ratio ensures you get personal attention on these multi-day trips.

You want a fully guided trip? Please contact us for pricing: 1) Camping gear, 2) catering for you and your group. (907) 235-2090, [email protected]

Sample itinerary:
Day 1. Meet with guides in Anchorage 9 AM to get an orientation. Spend the day in Anchorage getting what you need, if anything.
Day 2. Meet in Whittier in the early morning for a relatively short water taxi ride to get us closer to Kings Bay. Paddle to Derickson Lagoon, this is along day

Shuyak Expedition June 13-23, July 26-Aug 5th, August 10-20th

Introduction to River Paddling & Applied River Running
Canoes and Kayaks, solo and tandem
Kasilof River
Intro to Rivers - June 11-12, 18-19, 25-26
Applied River Running - July 9-10, 16-17, 23-24, 30-31;
August 6-7, 13-14, 20-21, 27-28

Introduction to River Paddling. Learn the basics of river hydrology, cold water safety, safety on moving water, learn to identify and avoid river hazards, and simple maneuvers needed to become competent at running Class I-II rivers in a kayak or canoe, solo or tadem. If you have fundamental paddling skills in any discipline, a confident wet exit in a kayak, and the desire to learn river-running skills, this is the class for you. This is not a class for novices, please see our pool training courses, or the Introduction to paddling and introduction to sea kayaking courses to learn the fundamental skills either kayak or canoe, to attend this class. We have scheduled the introductory sessions to coincide with the easy conditions on the river in early summer, when the flow is low, and current speeds are friendly. All kayaking equipment can be provided, including dry suits.

Applied River Running. Once you have basic paddling skills on rivers, it’s time to get out and explore, do more playing, improve your roll if you’re a kayaker, and improve your timing as a canoeist. This is a course to enjoy the adventure of running a wild river, practice safety in a group, and in plain terms get out and run the rivers as the water levels rise and water becomes faster and waves bigger as the summer progresses. To take the applied river running course, you need to have taken the Intro to river running course or have comparable skills: clothing and personal gear for a day trip, effective forward paddling and balance, you can catch eddies, ferry and peel out in slower water. You also have some safe swimming and throw bag practice under your belt and at least 2 days on a wild river in the craft of choice. Canoeists really benefit from learning kayaking and vice versa, come enjoy a wild river with us.

Learn and practice safe swimming, use of a throw rope, and simple techniques to assist with an in-river rescue. Eddy turns, peel outs, upstream ferries and back ferries are all on the menu, and the slow water will promote some easy river surfing opportunities. The variety of conditions on this easy river will give you a chance to learn and practice a variety of moves. If you’re a sea kayaker, a weekend of cross training will transform your sea paddling skills. The fact about cross training is (drum roll) that you become more than the sum of the parts.

We provide:All leadership, instruction, and all river kayaking gear, including sea kayak & gear, as well as personal protective gear for training, Kokatat Gore-tex dry suits, booties, helmets, gloves, and all other needed safety equipment.
You provide:Enthusiasm for learning, personal clothing, food, water, dry bags with extra clothing and personal items. Ear and nose plugs are desirable, and if you wear glasses or sunglasses, and eyeglass retainer (Chums) is a good idea.

When??
Normally weekends, but please call for availability, 907.235.2090
Introduction to River Running
June 11-12, 18-19, 25-26. Saturday & Sunday

Applied River Running
July 9-10, 16-17, 23-24, 30-31;
August 6-7, 13-14, 20-21, 27-28
Sample Itineraries
Introduction to River Running
Day 1 – Spend the morning at the lake, basic skills and wet exit/roll tuning. Spend the afternoon talking about river hazards, throw bag practice, run the river, one safe swim along the way, the big picture, catching big eddies and peeling back out into current. Identify river hazards.
Day 2 – Spend the day running the river, catching eddies, doing peel outs and ferries, practice some rescues, try some river surfing.

Applied River Running
Day 1 – Dynamics of planning river trips, flow analysis data, river difficulty, making hard moves in easy-ish but very fast high volume water. Dynamic peel outs and ferries, catch mid-river eddies on the fly, using hesitation eddies to maneuver and slow down. Practice rolling in faster water. Probably camp in the area.
Day 2 – Run shuttle, and run the river a second day, maximizing all the play potential. You got your feet wet yesterday, and today you’re going to hone all your moves.

Where: Kasilof River, Kenai Peninsula

Pre-requisites: This course is suitable for adults with fundamental kayaking skills and a confident wet exit. Eskimo rolling is desirable, but not essential, but good paddling skills in any craft is essential. The river running weekends require rolling for kayakers and excellent balance and boat control of the canoeists.

Fees: $155/person/day (sales tax included); $275 for 2-days. All equipment provided including Kokatat immersion wear, sea kayaks and all gear, paddles, PFDs, helmets, personal flotation devices and more. ** Minimum group size 4 students. Please call for availability or small-group (<3) pricing, 907.235.2090

2011 Guided Trips & Expeditions

Guided Day Trips for Novices and Beginners – Level 1
Scenic kayak tours at your own pace in Kachemak Bay State Park

Dress for Immersion in comfortable Kokatat paddling suits that keep you dry while entering the kayaks, while paddling, and to protect you from shock drowning in the event of an unplanned capsize. Water taxi departure from the Homer Spit takes us into the heart of Kachemak Bay State Park where we spend the day enjoying the scenery, wildlife and fun of paddling. We can prepare a hearty lunch, or you can do your own thing. If I were taking my own family paddling, I’d dress them in protective suits, so why should I treat you any differently? We train and certify sea kayak guides, but we really enjoy taking novices and beginners on tours and we provide the clothing to do it safely. Advance reservations are needed, we have a busy schedule and are frequently booked months in advance. Please call or email, we often have gaps in our schedule.

Alaska Kayak School guides are professional instructors and sea kayak leaders that are up to date on their instructor/leadership qualifications in the American Canoe Association and British Canoe Union, as well as wilderness medical skills (Wilderness First Responder). All our guides are trainers, instructors and assessors of sea kayak guides for other companies. Needless to say, we have the expertise to design a trip to suit your need and desires. One of our main guides is a retired wildlife biologist with 20 years experience in Alaska. If you want expert leadership and safety, plus a ton of local knowledge, you can travel with us.

You Provide: personal clothing to wear in the paddling suits, drinking water, and enthusiasm for paddling. You can provide your own lunch, and all participants should bring a change of clothes in a dry bag, or ask us to provide dry bags.

We provide: All kayaking equipment, immersion paddling suits, kayaks, paddles, and leadership. We can provide lunch, or opt out of our lunch and save $10/person.

When: Any summer day we’re free, anytime after 1 June and before 31 September.

Where: Kachemak Bay State Park, and Homer, Alaska Kayak School, the venue will be chosen in relation to tides and weather.
Pre-requisites: Can swim and follow verbal instructions, ask about including youth paddlers that are less than 100 lbs.

Costs: $199/person/day, all inclusive, water taxi kayak rental, sales tax and lunch included as well as protective clothing. Groups of 8 or more receive 4% discount. Save $10/person if you provide your own lunch.

Registration/Reservations/Information: Alaska Kayak School, 907.235.2090, email info@[email protected].(online registration)

Guided Day Trips for level 2+ paddlers
Experience what Kachemak Bay has to offer from the cockpit …
Stunning scenery, wildlife, and a variety of sea kayaking venues, Open Water, Tide Streams & Protected Coves
You have fundamental sea kayaking skills and want to experience what Kachemak Bay has to offer? Can you perform basic strokes and maneuvers, rescue yourself, get rescued, and rescue others in flat water? If your answer is “yes”, then we can take you on a bit more of a day trip adventure, and perhaps not use a water taxi. You’re likely to use one of our excellent rudderless seaworthy sea kayaks (Valley, Nigel Dennis, North Shore, Prijon) wear a dry suit or paddling suit, and explore open waters and rocky shorelines in search of wildlife, sea vistas, photo ops, and aquatic memories. If you want to use a more traditional sea kayak with a rudder, let us know, we can find you one to use. We have two lovely fiberglass doubles that are a delight to paddle on a day trip, Valley’s Aleut Sea II, and a Nigel Dennis Triton.

We offer programs in Kachemak Bay State Park under a commercial use permit with the State of Alaska Department of Natural Resources, Division of State Parks. All our guides are American Canoe Association instructors or certified sea kayak trip leaders and/or British Canoe Union coaches or certified leaders. Our wilderness medical qualifications are up to date and appropriate for the venue, Wilderness First Responders. At least one of our guides is a retired wildlife biologist with 30 years experience in Alaska, so if you’re into natural history, you’ll get an earful.

You Provide: personal clothing to wear under the paddling suits or dry suits, preferably synthetic non-absorbent fabrics such as fleece and poly-pro, drinking water, and enthusiasm for paddling. You provide your own lunch, and all participants should bring a change of clothes in a dry bag, a warm hat, jacket and raingear. We will send you a list as needed.

We provide: All kayaking equipment, immersion paddling suits, kayaks, paddles, and leadership. We can provide lunch, or opt out of out lunch and save $10/person.

When: Any summer day we’re free, anytime after 1 June and before 31 September, Advance reservations are needed, we have a busy schedule, please call for availability.

Where: Homer & Kachemak Bay State Park; & Open Water in Kachemak Bay

Pre-requisites: Coastal Kayak level 2 skills and can follow verbal instructions.

Costs: $155/person/day, includes sales tax and all kayaking gear. Water taxi fees, are not included, but if needed, would be the responsibility of the paddlers. Ask about group rates. Minimum group size 4, (sometimes 3), please call for availability, we’re often booked months in advance.

Registration/Reservations/Information: Alaska Kayak School, 907.235.2090, email info@[email protected].(online registration)

Introduction to Sea Kayak Camping
Kenai Lake
June 11-13, July 9-11, August 7-9

You provide:Personal clothing, camping gear, food and water, etc. If you have all the sea kayaking gear (ask for a list), we will provide a $50 discount on a 2-day trip and $75 on a 3-day trip. You will need dry bags, and we have a few, we can provide you a set for $50.

Download Coastal Kayak Level 2 Syllabus

Pre-requisites: Level 2 Coastal Kayaking Skills, and ability to follow verbal instructions.
Where: to be announced, on the shores of Kenai Lake

Registration and Reservations: Pre-registration is necessary.Call 907.235.2090, email info@[email protected].(online registration), payment needed to complete reservation, 50% deposit with registration form starts reservation, balance due 30 days before trip. Waiver, medical history, and terms and conditions documents, cancelation policy, and equipment lists will be sent to you after you make an inquiry or send a registration form. Some form of payment is needed to secure your reservation, leave a credit/check card on our secure server or call with payment information, you can also use PayPal, please call or email for details.

Summer Instructional Tours
Homer & Whittier, June 18-22, July 13-17, August 26-30

Coastal features and marine weather interact to force all sea kayakers to make trip-planning decisions. This is a sea kayak camping trip designed to help you tune your paddling skills while focusing on the trip planning and camping aspects of multi-day sea journey. Selecting gear, packing a boat, navigation and trip planning, and group dynamics. Offered as a 4 night-5day course, the first day is spent selecting gear and test packing your boats, the next 4 days are spent traveling, camping, and learning as you go. This is a perfect course if you have developed fundamental (level 2+) paddling skills and want to learn sea kayak tripping skills on a multi-day journey. You need to be able to paddle in winds to 10-15 knots and rain. You might have to camp in the rain. The payoff? You learn all the tricks from experienced sea kayak campers and instructors.

You provide:Personal clothing, camping gear, food and water, etc. If you have all the sea kayaking gear (ask for a list), we will provide a $100 discount. You will need dry bags, and we have a few, we can provide you a set for $50.

Download Coastal Kayak Level 2 Syllabus

Sample itinerary
Day 1.
Meet, select equipment test pack boats, finish shopping, water taxi to first campsite.
Day 2.
We’ll a navigation and trip planning primer course in the morning after break fast, and we’ll go on a day trip to work on wind and wave paddling skills, camp in same location, campsite 1.
Day 3.
Move to campsite 2, paddle 6-10 miles, and make an effort to time our move to take advantage of any conditions that can assist us on our journey.
Day 4.
Move to campsite 3 and get within 1 days paddle of our destination being mindful of that the conditions will be favorable to make it to the take out. Take advantage of any conditions that can assist us on our journey.
Day 5.
Paddle to the take out or go on a day trip and be back in time to be picked up by the water taxi at the end of our journey.

Pre-requisites: Level 2 Coastal Kayaking Skills, wilderness camping experience, and ability to follow verbal instructions, ability to paddle 4-6 hrs per day.
Where: Homer or Whittier

Costs **
5 day Journey - $612 per person including kayaking gear, water taxi & tax
** 4-person minimum, 3-person courses possible call for price.

Registration and Reservations: Pre-registration is necessary. Call 907.235.2090, email info@[email protected].(online registration), payment needed to complete reservation, a 50% deposit with registration form starts your reservation, balance due 30 days before trip. Waiver, medical history, and terms and conditions documents and equipment lists will be sent to you after you make an inquiry or send in a registration form.

Kings Bay Expedition
Prince William Sound – June 18-27, July 22-30, August 19-28

Kings Bay is a wilderness destination that offers stunning scenery in a remote setting. Regardless of your paddling skills, you will be wowed; there is a breathtaking vista in every direction. We start with a short water taxi ride and some dedicated paddling to get deep in Nellie Juan Fjord. A visit to scenic Nellie Juan Glacier and stunning Derickson Lagoon are probably inevitable, but the main prize Kings Bay, awaits. This is a Prince William Sound paddling wilderness classic. If you have basic paddling skills, can paddle for 4-6 hours per day, and have some wilderness camping skills, this is a dream trip. Since all our guides are instructors, you can count on taking advantage of their teaching skills to help you hone your paddling skills as needed. Coastal Kayaking Skills assessments may be possible on these trips. Low client:guide/instructor ratio ensures you get personal attention on these multi-day wilderness expeditions.

To see a video trailer of a short movie we helped to produce showing one of our trips to King’s Bay and Derickson Lagoon, see here: http://www.downstreammedia.net/kayakjournal/KJTV2007-09-25.mov

The Alaska Kayak School’s guided trips distinguish themselves in being led by trained leaders and instructors with over a decade of experience guiding and teaching sea kayaking in Alaska and Prince William Sound. If you want expert leadership, excellent sea kayaking equipment by Nigel Dennis, Valley, Werner, Kokatat, & Snap Dragon, and guides with over a decade of experience in the region, then travel with us.

We operate under permit from the US Forest Service, Chugach Ranger District and the Alaska State Parks. All of our trip leaders are Wilderness First Responders. Our guides are among the most qualified and experienced sea kayaking guides in the entire region of South Coastal Alaska. All guides are American Canoe Association Instructors and British Canoe Union coaches that train and certify sea kayak guides. In addition, but not least, one of our leaders/guide is a retired wildlife biologist with 30 years experience in Alaska, so a rolling natural history commentary will delight you with the natural wonders that are Alaska’s legacy. Travel with us, you deserve the best. As a small sideline, we have been publishing articles on sea kayaking in Alaska in the British sea kayaking magazine, Ocean Paddler, Bear Safety and Conservation (OP14), Selecting a Sea Kayaking venue in Alaska (OP15), and Trip Planning Resources for Committing Sea Kayak Expeditions in Alaska (OP19); you can find these articles in print or online, www.oceanpaddlermagazine.com .

You provide:Personal clothing, camping gear, food and water, etc. If you have all the sea kayaking gear (ask for a list), we will provide a $500 discount. You will need dry bags, and we have a few, we can provide you a set for $50. If you have your own sea kayak and paddling gear, you qualify for a $500 discount. Contact us for details and an equipment list. (907) 235-2090, [email protected]

Sample itinerary
Day 1. Meet with guides in Anchorage 9 AM to get an orientation (if needed).
Spend the day in Anchorage getting what you need, if anything (if needed).
Day 2. Meet in Whittier in the early morning for a relatively short water taxi ride
getting us closer to Kings Bay. Paddle to/in Derickson Lagoon, and camp, this can be a long day.
Day 3. Paddle from Derickson Lagoon to Kings Bay, camp.
Day 4. Explore Kings Bay.
Day 5. Explore Kings Bay.
Day 6. Explore Kings Bay
Day 7. Paddle back to Derrickson Lagoon, camp.
Day 8. Explore Derrickson Lagoon.
Day 9. Flex day, as needed.
Day 10. Paddle to pick up spot and return to Whittier.

Pre-requisites:As a minimum, you need fundamental (level 2) sea kayaking skills, the ability to spend 4-6 hrs paddling each day in wind and rain, camping skills, and the ability to look after yourself in camp. Meals could be provided, please ask.

Fees: $2,080 cc price, $1,999 check discount
$1,580 cc price if you own you’re your own kayak & gear
$1,499 check discount price if you have your own kayak and gear

The fees associated with this expedition include: sea kayaks (Valley, Nigel Dennis, North Shore, Prijon), kayaking gear, Kokatat dry suit, and all leadership/guiding fees, any instruction, and water taxi. Not included: food, camping gear, travel to Whittier, and any pre-trip/post-trip food items.
If you have your own kayaking gear? You save $250 if you bring your own sea kayak and $250 if you have your own (functional) dry suit, and other kayaking gear, a total of a $500 savings.

You want a fully guided trip? Please contact us for pricing: 1) Camping gear, 2) catering for you and your group. (907) 235-2090, [email protected]

Registration & Reservations: Advance registration is essential.
Call 907.235.2090, email info@[email protected].(online registration). A 50% deposit, along with a completed registration form, liability waiver, health questionnaire, and terms and conditions document, all signed, establish your reservation for the trip. The balance is due 30 days before departure. Some form of payment is needed to secure your reservation, leave a credit/check card on our secure server, we won’t run your card without your approval, you can also use PayPal, please email us for details.

Cancellation policy and refunds: Once you have sent us your registration form, or have called to register by phone, we’ll send you: 1) terms and conditions & the cancelation policy, 2) liability waiver and 3) health questionnaire, which you can return signed with payment, and/or authorization to run your card. We are happy to send you these forms in advance for your review.

Cook Inlet-Gulf of Alaska Expeditions 2011
June 18-25, July 16-24, August 6-14 & 20-28
Stunning scenery, open water, tide races, & wildlife

You have developed your sea kayaking skills, and are a competent Level 3-4 ACA Coastal Kayaking Paddler or a BCU 3 star sea paddler, or better. Or maybe you have comparable skills, i.e., you can paddle in Force 2-3 winds, sea state, tidal streams 2-3 knots, and have done some sea kayak camping. Almost 50 miles from Homer down the coast of the Kenai Peninsula, the Gulf of Alaska and lower Cook Inlet come together in the Chugach Islands. Stunning scenery and wildlife, tidal streams, tide races, exposure to the swell from the Gulf of Alaska, and wilderness camping all come into play in this fabulous sea kayaking destination. This is an ideal venue for level 4 training, i.e., skills for paddling safely in winds 11-16 kts., waves 4’, tidal streams to 4-5 knots, exposure to ocean swell, surf landings, rock gardens, and much more. On this journey, we can travel to the area in a water taxi, camp, explore, and help you to develop/tune ACA level 4 Coastal Kayaking Skills and or BCU 3-4 star skills, and spend 2 days paddling back to Homer using the significant tidal stream in lower Cook Inlet to our advantage. You can work on your sea kayaking skills with us, or you can come just to enjoy the area and use your hard earned level 4 skills to delight in this fantastic venue.

The Alaska Kayak School’s guided trips distinguish themselves in being led by professionally trained and assessed leaders and instructors with over a decade of experience guiding and teaching sea kayaking in Alaska. If you want expert leadership, excellent sea kayaking equipment by Nigel Dennis, Valley, Werner, Kokatat, & Snap Dragon, and guides with over a decade of experience in the region, then you can travel with us. Our leaders are American Canoe Association Level 4 Coastal Instructors and British Canoe Union 4 and 5 star leaders. Our wilderness medical skill certifications (Wilderness First Responders) are current.

As a small sideline, we have been publishing articles on “sea kayaking in Alaska” in the British sea kayaking magazine, Ocean Paddler, “Bear Safety and Conservation” (OP14), “Selecting a Sea Kayaking venue in Alaska” (OP15), and” Trip Planning Resources for Committing Sea Kayak Expeditions in Alaska” (OP19); you can find these articles in print or online, www.oceanpaddlermagazine.com . Our leaders’ wilderness medical certifications (Wilderness First Responders) are up to date, and appropriate for this venue.

Sample Itinerary
Day 1. Meet in Homer, select equipment, test packing and any last minute shopping, load kayaks on water taxi for early morning departure the next day.
Day 2. Early morning departure for Gulf of Alaska, make camp, go for a short afternoon paddle.
Day 3. Explore Gulf of Alaska – Lower Cook Inlet, camp.
Day 4. Explore Gulf of Alaska – Lower Cook Inlet, camp.
Day 5. Gulf of Alaska – Lower Cook Inlet, camp.
Day 6. Star paddling back to Homer, camp on the way.
Day 7. Paddle back to Homer, arrive late afternoon on Homer Spit.
We provide:All leadership, instruction, and all sea kayaking gear, including sea kayak & gear, as well as personal protective gear for training, Kokatat Gore-tex dry suits, booties, helmets, gloves, and all other needed safety gear. Sea Kayaks by Valley, Nigel Dennis Kayaks, North Shore and Prijon. Paddles by Werner.

You provide:Personal clothing, camping gear, food and water, etc. If you have all the sea kayaking gear (ask for a list), we will provide a $300 discount. You will need dry bags, and we have a few, we can provide you a set for $50. Contact us for details and an equipment list. (907) 235-2090, [email protected]

Pre-requisites:As a minimum, you need Level 3 ACA Coastal Kayaking Skills or BCU 3 star sea skills, the ability to spend 6+ hrs paddling each day in wind and rain, camping skills, and the ability to look after yourself in camp. While in the Lower Cook Inlet-Gulf of Alaska area, we could have access to a cozy yurt for shelter, or you can plan on sleeping indoors (for a small fee) but you’d have to camp one night on the 2-day return paddle to Homer.

Fees: $1,555 cc price, $1,499 check discount
$1,255 cc price of you have your own kayak and gear
$1,199 check discount if you have your own kayak and gear

The fees associated with this expedition include: sea kayaks (Valley, Nigel Dennis, North Shore, Prijon), kayaking gear, Kokatat dry suit, and all leadership/guiding fees, any instruction, and water taxi. Not included: food, camping gear, travel to Whittier, and any pre-trip/post-trip food items. Meals and camping gear can be provided, please ask about pricing for a fully catered trip.
If you have your own kayaking gear? You save $200 if you bring your own sea kayak, and $100 if you have your own (functional) dry suit, and other kayaking gear, a total of a $300 savings.

Registration & Reservations: Advance registration is essential. Call 907.235.2090, email info@[email protected].(online registration). A 50% deposit, along with a completed registration form, liability waiver, health questionnaire, and terms and conditions document, all signed, establish your reservation for the trip. The balance is due 30 days before departure. Some form of payment is needed to secure your reservation, leave a credit/check card on our secure server, we won’t run your card without your approval, you can also use PayPal, please email us for details.

Shuyak Island State Park Expeditions 2011
June 13-23, July 26-Aug 5th, August 10-20 th
Wilderness Sea Kayaking Paradise for Experienced Paddlers

Shuyak Island State Park is one of the most precious gems of the Alaska State Park System, it is isolated from the adjacent mainland to the west by Shelikof Straight, and is the northernmost island of the Kodiak Archipelago, sitting almost 85 miles from Homer across the Gulf of Alaska. Shuyak is a “10” for scenery, wildlife, and sea conditions to boot: open ocean, tidal races, rock gardens, protected bays and inland passages, Shuyak Island has it all. There is no easy way to get there with hard shell kayaks, but our colleagues at Alaska Excursions have been there often for long-range fishing charters, know it well, and can deliver us and other experienced sea kayakers to Shuyak with ease.

“Ever since the first moment I set foot on Shuyak Island, I knew I’d have to return. Now that I’ve returned several times, and paddled it’s many moods, I still can’t wait to go back”, Tom Pogson. Getting back to Shuyak is not easy. It’s closer from Homer to Shuyak than to Anchorage or Whittier, but we have to travel across the Gulf of Alaska in a seaworthy cabin cruiser tested in these waters, the M/V Seawitch to get there. Shuyak Island is an experienced sea kayakers’ paradise. Sea conditions can brew up quickly, though, so having strong paddling skills on board (ACA coastal levels 3-4, BCU 3-4 star sea) is essential if you travel the outer coasts of the island. Some of the goals of these expeditions are to circumnavigate Shuyak Island (weather permitting), explore the coast of adjacent Afognak Island, wildlife watching (especially whales), search out photo ops, and provide any skills training you’d like to help you develop your sea skills. Plus you will do some of the highest quality sea kayak camping anywhere in the Northern Hemisphere.

Online video of sea kayaking Shuyak - To see a short movie we produced showing one of our trips to Shuyak Island, see here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p38Y-A5Dl3Y&playnext=1&list=PLE2217D66F2C432E4&index=73
The Alaska Kayak School’s guided trips distinguish themselves in being led by professionally trained and assessed leaders and instructors with over a decade of experience guiding and teaching sea kayaking in Alaska. If you want expert leadership, excellent sea kayaking equipment by Nigel Dennis, Valley, Werner, Kokatat, & Snap Dragon, and guides with over a decade of experience in the region, then travel with us. We operate on Alaska State Park Lands under a commercial use permit with the State of Alaska.

Sample Itinerary
Day 1. Meet in Homer, select equipment, test packing and any last minute shopping, load kayaks on water taxi for early morning departure the next day.
Day 2. Early morning departure for Shuyak on the F/V Sea Witch, arrive on Shuyak, make camp, or pack the boats and make short journey to a campsite.
Day 3. Explore Shyuak Island, camp.
Day 4. Explore Shuyak Island, camp
Day 5. Explore Shuyak Island, Camp
Day 6. Explore Shuyak Island, Camp
Day 7. Explore Shuyak Island, Camp
Day 8. Flex day, as needed.
Day 9. Paddle back to pick-up location, camp.
Day 10. Boat trip back to Homer

All of our guides are American Canoe Association Coastal Kayaking Instructors and British Canoe Union sea kayak coaches that train and certify sea kayak guides. In addition, but not least, one of our leaders/guide is a retired wildlife biologist with 30 years experience in Alaska, so a rolling natural history commentary will delight you with the natural wonders that are Alaska’s legacy. Travel with us, you deserve the best. As a small sideline, we have been publishing articles on sea kayaking in Alaska in the British sea kayaking magazine, Ocean Paddler, “Bear Safety and Conservation” (OP14), “Selecting a Sea Kayaking venue in Alaska” (OP15), and” Trip Planning Resources for Committing Sea Kayak Expeditions in Alaska” (OP19); you can find these articles in print or online, www.oceanpaddlermagazine.com . Our leaders’ wilderness medical certifications (Wilderness First Responders) are up to date, and appropriate for this venue.

You provide:Personal clothing, camping gear, food and water, etc. If you have all the sea kayaking gear (ask for a list), we will provide a $600 discount. You will need dry bags, and we have a few, we can provide you a set for $50. Contact us for details and an equipment list. (907) 235-2090, [email protected]

Fees: $2,598 cc price, $2,499 check discount
$1,998 cc price of you have your own kayak and gear
$1,899 check discount if you have your own kayak and gear

If you have your own kayaking gear? You save $350 if you bring your own sea kayak, and $250 if you have your own (functional) dry suit, and other kayaking gear, a total of a $600 savings.

Registration & Reservations: Advance registration is essential. Call 907.235.2090, email info@[email protected].(online registration). A 50% deposit, along with a completed registration form, liability waiver, health questionnaire, and terms and conditions document, all signed, establish your reservation for the trip. The balance is due 30 days before departure. Some form of payment is needed to secure your reservation, leave a credit/check card on our secure server, we won’t run your card without your approval, you can also use PayPal, please email us for details.

Shuyak Island State Park Kayak Shuttle
Delivery of Kayaks and Paddlers to Shuyak Island from Homer

Shuyak Island is one of the crown jewels of the Alaska State Park System and is the northernmost island of the Kodiak Archipelago. Shuyak Island State Park is an extraordinary destination for sea kayaking, but it is not often visited because of the difficulty of getting to the island with kayaks. Unequalled scenery, wildlife, stunning wilderness camping and paddling dominate anyone’s visit to the island, if you can ever get there.

The Shuyak Shuttle will solve this transportation juggernaut. Once a month, from June to August, The Sea Witch, a Delta 42’ open ocean charter boat, piloted by Mike Coates, of Alaska Excursions, based in Homer, will deliver sea kayakers and their kayaks to Shuyak Island from the Homer Harbor, and then pick them up 10-12 days later as arranged.

The trip from Homer to Shuyak is an 85-mile largely open ocean trip across the Gulf of Alaska. This open ocean trip is a pelagic wildlife bonanza! Sea birds and whales will keep your attention. The cost of the Shuyak Shuttle will be $600/person and gear for you and your gear on a round trip; this includes the trip from Homer to Shuyak and a pickup for the return trip to the Homer Harbor. 7.5% City of Homer sales tax applies.

Reservations and more information: Contact Mike Coates @ Alaska Excursions, (907) 399-1970 or [email protected], or Tom Pogson @ Alaska Kayak School, (907) 235-2090, [email protected] for more information.

NOTE OF CAUTION: The sea conditions around Shuyak Island State Park can change quickly from flat calm, 1 star, to 5 star, with winds frequently over 15 knots, waves over 5’, tidal streams running at more than 4 kts., and all the interactions possible between conditions of this magnitude. If these conditions are not your cup of tea, consider a guided trip, another destination, or hey, get some training, ‘+).

** For more information about Shuyak Island State Park, see here: http://dnr.alaska.gov/parks/units/kodiak/shuyak.htm

Pool Kayak Training Schedule Winter 2010 – 2011

Homer Community Recreation @ Kate Kuhns Aquqatic Center: January-March 2011

Youth Kayaking Skills – Wednesdays 6:30-7:30 PM, Jan 12-Feb 9; Feb 16-March 16
Kayak Basics – Tuesdays 8:30-10 PM, January 11-February 8; February 15-March 15
Beyond Kayak Basics – Wednesdays 8:30-10 PM, January 12-February 9; February 16-March 16
Balance, Sculling, Bracing & Rolling – Thursdays 8:30-10 PM, January 13-March 17

Homer Community Recreation @ Kate Kuhns Aquqatic Center: March - April 2011

Youth Kayaking Skills - March 23, 30, April 6 & 13, 20
Kayak Basics - March 22, 29, April 5 & 12, 19
Sea Kayak Safety and Rescue - March 23, 30, April 6 & 13, 20
Balance, Sculling, Bracing and Rolling - March 24, 31, April 7, 14, 21

Soldotna Community Schools Pool Kayaking Skills Series: Winter 2010-2011: January – April 2011

Fundamental Kayaking Skills
Beyond Fundamentals
Supervised Skills Practice
Kayak Safety and Rescue

Anchorage Pool Kayak Training Program November 2010 – April 2011

Kayak Basics
Beyond Basics
Family Kayaking Fun
Balance, Bracing, Sculling and Rolling
Sea Kayak Rescue Skills
Supervised Kayaking Skills Practice Sessions
Pool Kayaking Slalom Races with Prizes !!

Homer Community Recreation Courses@ Kate Kuhns Aquatic Center – Homer High School

Youth Kayaking Skills

Kayaking is an ideal activity for 9-18 year olds, helping develop safety awareness, confidence, motor skills for effective paddling, and tremendous fun messing around in boats. We’ll use weekly 1 hr. sessions in the pool learning kayak safety and paddling in small maneuverable river kayaks. Professional coaches of the British Canoe Union and American Canoe Association are the instructors. Many current National and Olympic team paddlers began their kayaking careers in pool programs like this one. This is a small step to providing a youth education program for kayaking skills development. Besides, it’s a ton of fun. All equipment provided.

WHERE: Homer High School Pool
WHEN: Session 1: Wednesdays, 6:30-7:30p.m., January 12, 19, 26; February 2 & 9. Session 2: February 16, 23; March 2, 9, 16.
PRE-REQUISITES: can swim and follow verbal instructions, ages 9-18.
FEE: $18 Homer Community Recreation fee + $130 class and equipment fee per 5 week sessions, tax included.

Advance registration is necessary, please call 235-2090, email info@[email protected].(online registration)

Kayak Basics

Learn the basics of kayaking in the comfort of a warm pool using fun, maneuverable river kayaks that enhance you skills development. Effective strokes and maneuvers, rescues and safety skills are all covered in this classic Alaskan-style learning opportunity. Winter offers the chance to “become a kayaker by spring” by taking advantage of the dark & cold winter nights to develop your balance and the efficient paddling for fun and excitement on the water next summer or your paddling winter vacation. We focus on level 1 and 2 kayaking skills. These courses can transform your kayaking skills. Professional kayak coaches are your instructors. All equipment provided.

WHERE: Homer High School Pool
WHEN: Session I. Tuesdays, 8:30-10p.m., January 11, 18, 25; February 1 & 8. Session 2: February 15, 22; March 1, 8, 15.
PRE-REQUISITES: can swim and follow verbal instructions
FEE: $18 Homer Community Recreation fee + $130/person/session (5 classes/session).
Advance registration is necessary, please call 235-2090, email info@[email protected].(online registration)

Beyond Kayak Basics

Build on your fundamental kayaking skills to develop refined strokes and maneuvers, balance, bracing, crisp efficient rescues, and a detailed awareness of the sport of kayaking. Strokes and maneuvers emphasized include efficient forward and back paddling, sculling draw, low and high braces, sculling for support, Eskimo rescues, assisted rescues, and development of Eskimo rolling skills.. Sessions include 30-minute informal discussions and 1.5 hour skills. Professional kayak instructors are your coaches. Course focuses on British Canoe Union (old) 3 star skills and American Canoe Association level 3 skills. All equipment is provided. Fundamental kayaking skills are a prerequisite for this class. This syllabus is a large body of skill; many students repeat the course at least once.

WHERE: Homer High School Pool
WHEN: Session I. Wednesdays, 8:30-10p.m., January 12, 19, 26; February 2 & 9 (or continuation of session 1); Session 2 – February 16, 23; March 2, 9, 16.
PRE-REQUISITES: level 2 kayaking skills, including wet exit with skirt
FEE: $18 Homer Community Recreation fee + $130/person/session (5 classes/session).
Advance registration is necessary, please call 235-2090, email info@[email protected].(online registration)

Balance, Sculling, Bracing and Rolling

You have developed your basic skills but want to have more confidence to paddle rougher waters or rivers safely? Developing your balance, sculling, bracing and rolling skills is a great way to increase your proficiency and comfort in paddling any conditions. Step by step progressions for learning these counter-intuitive skills will have you progressing towards your goals. Video analysis used in this class greatly enhances your learning and success. Professional kayak coaches are your instructors. 10 sessions are used to develop this complex and useful kayaking skill. All equipment provided.

WHERE: Homer High School Pool
WHEN: Thursdays, 8:30-10p.m., January 13, 20, 27; February 3, 10, 17, 24; March 3, 10, 17.
PRE-REQUISITES: fundamental kayaking skills and comfortable capsizing
FEE: $18 Homer Community Recreation fee + $225.
Advance registration is necessary, please call 235-2090, email info@[email protected]. (online registration)

Youth Kayaking Skills
Kayaking is an ideal activity for 9-18 year olds, helping develop safety awareness, confidence, motor skills for effective paddling, and tremendous fun messing around in boats. We’ll use weekly 1 hr. sessions in the pool learning kayak safety and paddling in small maneuverable river kayaks. Professional coaches of the British Canoe Union and American Canoe Association are the instructors. Many current National and Olympic team paddlers began their kayaking careers in pool programs like this one. This is a small step to providing a youth education program for kayaking skills development. Besides, it’s a ton of fun. All equipment provided.

WHERE: Homer High School Pool
WHEN: Session 1: Wednesdays, 6:30-7:30p.m. March 23, 30, April 6 & 13, 20
PRE-REQUISITES: can swim and follow verbal instructions, ages 9-18.
FEE: $18 Homer Community Recreation fee + $120 class and equipment fee per 5 week sessions, tax included. Advance registration is necessary, please call 235-2090, email info@[email protected].(online registration)

Kayak Basics
Learn the basics of kayaking in the comfort of a warm pool using fun, maneuverable river kayaks that enhance you skills development. Effective strokes and maneuvers, rescues and safety skills are all covered in this classic Alaskan-style learning opportunity. Winter offers the chance to “become a kayaker by spring” by taking advantage of the dark & cold winter nights to develop your balance and the efficient paddling for fun and excitement on the water next summer or your paddling winter vacation. We focus on level 1 and 2 kayaking skills. These courses can transform your kayaking skills. Professional kayak coaches are your instructors. All equipment provided.

WHERE: Homer High School Pool
WHEN: Session I. Tuesdays, 8:30-10:00 p.m. March 22, 29, April 5 & 12, 19
PRE-REQUISITES: can swim and follow verbal instructions
FEE: $18 Homer Community Recreation fee + $120/person/session (5 classes/session). Advance registration is necessary, please call 235-2090, email info@[email protected].(online registration)

Sea Kayak Safety and Rescue.
Learn and practice a variety of assisted and self-rescues for sea kayaking in the comfort of warm pool. T-rescue, scoop rescue, cowboy scramble, paddle float rescue, trapped paddler, re-enter and roll with paddle float, and all the many variations. All equipment provided.

WHERE: Homer High School Pool
WHEN: 8:30-10:00 PM, Wednesdays, March 23, 30, April 6 & 13, 20,
PRE-REQUISITES: fundamental kayaking skills, including wet exit with skirt
FEE: $18 Homer Community Recreation fee + $130/person/session (5 classes/session). Advance registration is necessary, please call 235-2090, email info@[email protected].(online registration)

Balance, Sculling, Bracing and Rolling
You have developed your basic skills but want to have more confidence to paddle rougher waters or rivers safely? Developing your balance, sculling, bracing and rolling skills is a great way to increase your proficiency and comfort in paddling any conditions. Step by step progressions for learning these counter-intuitive skills will have you progressing towards your goals. Video analysis used in this class greatly enhances your learning and success. Professional kayak coaches are your instructors. All equipment provided.

WHERE: Homer High School Pool
WHEN: Thursdays, 8:30-10:00p.m., March 24, 31, April 7, 14, 21
PRE-REQUISITES: fundamental kayaking skills and comfortable capsizing
FEE: $18 Homer Community Recreation fee + $145. Advance registration is necessary, please call 235-2090, email info@[email protected]. (online registration)

Soldotna Community Schools Pool Kayaking Skills Series: Winter 2010-2011: January – April 2011

Fundamental Kayaking Skills for Kids and Adults

Learn the basics of kayaking in a 3-hour course that combines informal lectures and kayaking skills training with maneuverable river kayaks in the comfort of a heated pool. Topics covered kayak fit and posture, launching, the paddle, safe capsize and recovery, hypothermia cold-shock and clothing, strokes and maneuvers (forward, back, stop, spin, turn, rudder, balance and bracing, simple towing and basics of rescues). These are generic skills shared by all types of kayaking: sea, white water, surf, marathon, polo, etc. Regardless of your interest or experience in kayaking, these fundamental skills will improve or awaken the kayaking skills you already have. Professional kayak instructors are your coaches. Course covers British Canoe Union 1-2 star skills, American Canoe Association level 1 and 2 skills. This is an ideal course if you've never had kayaking instruction. All equipment is provided. Course taken as a single session, with follow up instruction in the "Beyond Fundamentals" course offered Saturday afternoons.
Advance registration is necessary.
WHEN: Saturdays
DATES: January 8 & 22, February 5 & 19, March 5 & 19, April 16.
TIME: 9 AM - 1200 p.m.
WHERE: So Hi Pool, Soldotna FEE: $85/person/3 hr. session, tax included PRE-REQUISITES: Can swim and follow verbal instructions.

Registration: Alaska Kayak School (907) 235-2090,P.O. Box 3547, Homer, Alaska 99603. [email protected], (online registration)

Beyond Fundamentals – Intermediate Kayaking Skills

Build on your fundamental kayaking skills and develop refined strokes and maneuvers, balance and bracing, crisp efficient rescues, and a detailed awareness of the sport of kayaking. Strokes and maneuvers emphasized include efficient forward and back paddling, sculling draw, low and high braces, sculling for support, Eskimo rescues, assisted rescues, and development of Eskimo rolling skills. These are generic skills shared by all types of kayaking: sea, white water, surf, marathon, polo, etc.. Professional kayak instructors are your coaches. Course focuses on British Canoe Union 2-3 star skills and American Canoe Association level 2-3 skills. All equipment is provided. Fundamental kayaking skills are a prerequisite for this class. This syllabus is a large body of skill; many students repeat the course at least once. Advance registration is necessary.
WHEN: Saturdays
DATES: January 8 & 22, February 5 & 19, March 5 & 19.
TIME: 1230-330 p.m.
WHERE: So Hi Pool, Soldotna
FEE: $80/person/3.0 hr. session, tax included
PRE-REQUISITES: A confident wet exit and basic skills

Registration: Alaska Kayak School (907) 235-2090,P.O. Box 3547, Homer, Alaska 99603. [email protected].

Pool Kayaking Skills Practice (Kayak Slalom Racing)

If you’re a current student of the 2010-2011 winter programs, this is a chance to practice your skills. There will be supervision and light coaching – NOT INSTRUCTION – this is for practice of the skills you’ve been trained in while in the training sessions. You will need to register and provide means of payment to get a reservation, and we will adhere to class minimum of 6 if class will make on the subsequent Saturday morning. All equipment provided.
WHEN: Friday evenings
DATES: January 7 & 21, February 4 & 18, March 4 & 18, April 15.
TIME: 7-9 PM
WHERE: So Hi Pool, Soldotna
FEE: $22/person/session tax included
PRE-REQUISITES: Current Kayak School student & wet exit skills

Please call 235-2090, email info@[email protected]. (online registration)

Kayak Safety and Rescue Skills

Learn and practice assisted and self-rescues for touring and sea kayaks in the comfort of a warm pool. Experienced sea kayakers can pick up hot tips from professional sea kayak instructors and coaches, while less experienced paddlers, particularly recent Alaska Kayak School students can develop a variety of rescue strategies that will give them confidence once spring and summer sea paddling starts.
WHEN: Saturday
DATES: Apr 16
TIME: 1230-330 p.m.
WHERE: So Hi Pool, Soldotna
FEE: $95+tax/person/3 hr. session

Please call for more information, 235-2090, email info@[email protected]. (online registration)

* Reservations policy: We consider a reservation with payment and a completed registration form to be final. If you must cancel, and you can find a replacement student, you can receive a full refund; otherwise we will transfer your fees to a program on a different date. Any cancellations after the Thursday before a weekend program can receive no refund, your best bet is to sell your spot to a friend. Feel free to contact us for more details, (907) 235-2090.

Anchorage Pool Kayak Training Program 2010-2011

Alaska Kayak School offerings @ Bartlett & East Pools
Fall/Winter 2010-2011: NOVEMBER 2010 – APRIL 2011

The Alaska Kayak School has been offering comprehensive kayak education programs for over 10 years. Our pool kayaking education has simply raged during the last 8 winters in Homer, Seward, Soldotna & Anchorage; these programs are conducted according to safety and risk management standards of the American Canoe Association and the much larger British Canoe Union. Take advantage of the skills and experience of instructors and coaches with thousands of hours of teaching in Alaska for Alaskans. Hundreds of happy paddlers roam the Alaska’s waters each summer having developed safety awareness and skills through the Alaska Kayak School’s programs. We teach transferrable skills common to all disciplines of kayaking that help any kayaker take their skills to the next level. Don’t miss this unique opportunity to develop or improve your kayaking skills over the winter and be ready to enjoy effective and safe kayaking at your own level next spring and summer. See you at Service High School Pool this winter; hope you don’t miss the (chance to) boat (with us).

Winter offers the chance to “become a kayaker by spring” by taking advantage of the dark & cold winter nights to develop your balance and efficient paddling for fun and excitement on the water next summer or your paddling winter vacation. The skills you can develop over a winter in the pool are transferrable to any environment specific training such as sea kayaking instruction, river kayaking instruction and kayak surfing. These courses transform your kayaking skills. Professional kayak coaches are your instructors.

More information and Registration: Call the Alaska Kayak School, (907) 235-2090, email info@[email protected]. (online registration). Payment is required for registrations and reservations.

Advance registration necessary, 7-10 days in advance is not too early

1. Kayak Basics. Learn the basics common to all kayaking disciplines in the comfort of a warm pool using fun maneuverable river kayaks that enhance you skills development. Effective strokes and maneuvers, simple rescues and safety skills are all covered in this classic Alaskan-style learning opportunity. Cold water awareness, wet exits, posture, effective use of the body for safety and power, forward paddling, stopping, back paddling, turning, spinning 360º, and intro to balance and draw stroke plus the stern rudder are all on the menu. This is a very fun introduction peppered with games and effective drills for kayaking skill development. Professional instructors and coaches are your guides to learning this rewarding sport that is so apropos for Alaska residents. All equipment provided, but if you have your own PFD, please let us know and consider using it.
Where: Nov 14 @ East High School Pool; ALL other sessions @ Bartlett Pool, Anchorage
When: Sundays 10 AM – 1 PM

Dates: November 14, December 12, January 16, February 27, March 13, April 10 & 24.

Pre-requisites: can swim and follow verbal instructions
Cost: $100/3hr. session, $95 check/cash discount

More information and Registration: Call the Alaska Kayak School, (907) 235-2090, email info@[email protected]. (online registration). Payment is required for registrations and reservations. Advance registration necessary, 7-10 days in advance is not too early

2. Beyond Basics – Skills development and refinement. You have developed and confident wet exit and have moderate control of a maneuverable river kayak, and you want to develop more effective skills such as a core-based torso action for forward paddling, and disconnecting the actions of upper and lower body for crisp turns and maneuvers. In this action-packed class, you will review wet exit and basic safety procedures, practice deep water rescues, refine the stern rudder, draw stroke, sculling and bracing, and play a bunch of great games to enhance your skills development and learning. Includes a primer on balance and bracing, which is a class in and unto itself. All equipment included, but if you have your own PFD, please let us know and consider using your own.

Where: Nov 14 @ East High School Pool; ALL other sessions @ Bartlett Pool, Anchorage
When: Sundays 10 AM – 1 PM

Dates: November 14, December 12, January 16, February 27, March 13, April 10 & 24.

Pre-requisites: Confident wet exit with a skirt, basic skills.

Cost: $100/session, $95 check/cash discount

3. Family Kayaking Fun – Learn fundamental skills in a fun setting with members of the family. Parents and youngsters will enjoy learning safety, strokes and maneuvers in a fun setting. Basic boat control and rescues emphasized in this relaxed atmosphere for family fun and learning. Roughly follows the American Canoe Association’s Level 1 kayaking syllabus.

Where: Nov 14 @ East High School Pool; ALL other sessions @ Bartlett Pool, Anchorage
When: Sundays, 130-430 PM

November 14, December 12, January 16, February 27, March 13, April 10 & 24.

Pre-requisites: pre-registration and payment, a confident wet exit with a skirt, beyond basic skills, or permission of instructors. This is not a course for first or second time students of Alaska Kayak School Programs.
Cost: $105/session, $100 cash/check

4. Balance, Sculling, Bracing and Rolling. You have developed your basic skills but want to have more confidence to paddle rougher waters or rivers safely? Developing your balance, sculling, bracing and rolling skills is a great way to increase your proficiency and comfort while paddling in any conditions. Step by step progressions for learning these counter-intuitive skills will have you progressing towards your goals. Professional kayak coaches are your instructors. Text for class, Performance Video DVD: “The Kayak Roll”. Contact us for a copy, $25. Best instructional rolling video, ever, bar none!

Where: Nov 14 @ East High School Pool; ALL other sessions @ Bartlett Pool, Anchorage
When: Sundays, 130-430 PM

November 14, December 12, January 16, February 27, March 13, April 10 & 24.

5. Sea Kayak Safety and Rescue Skills. Learn and practice assisted and self-rescues for sea kayaks in the comfort of a warm pool. Experienced sea kayakers can pick up hot tips from professional sea kayak instructors and coaches, while less experienced paddlers, particularly recent Alaska Kayak School students can develop a variety of rescue strategies that will give them confidence once spring and summer sea paddling starts.

Where: Bartlett Pool, Anchorage
When: Sundays, 130-430 PM

Dates: April 10 & 24.

Pre-requisites: pre-registration and payment, a confident wet exit with a skirt, basic skills or beyond, or permission of instructors. This is not a course for first or second time students of Alaska Kayak School Programs.
Cost: $100/session, $95 cash/check

6. Kayaking Skills Supervised Practice Sessions. You have taken some Alaska Kayak School pool training courses recently and just want some time to “mess around in boats” with a little support from the Kayak School team in Kayak School kayaks and gear. This is a chance for a kayak rental with gear for you to take some to time to socialize and practice the skills you’ve been trained in – also known as skill consolidation. Really, it’s the mostest and funnest part of the winter pool activities, and this is a 3 hr. session for your fun and entertainment. You will share the pool with the rolling students who will be doing submersion studies in the one end of the pool. Pre-registration required just like for a class, it’s so we can save you a boat. These sessions will be provided as we have available gaps in the schedule. If you are interested, please register and we will develop a list of interested paddlers and jeep you informed.

Where: East High School or Bartlett Pools School Pool, Anchorage
When: 3 hr. sessions

Dates: To be announced

Pre-requisites: Payment, a confident wet exit with a skirt, basic skills. Cost: $50/session, $45 cash/check

7. Pool Kayak Slalom Racing – Prizes !!! such as Paddles, videos, & PFDs. Learn to race against the clock in the discipline of kayak slalom in the comfort of a warm pool. Effective forward paddling and kayak control are rewarded in this well developed Olympic Sport made user friendly in the pool. Much like Kayak Polo promotes skill development, slalom is the top Olympic kayak sport and hones the accuracy of your skills like no other kayaking discpline. Many kayak athletes train for slalom in pools in cold weather, so come see how your skills measure up against other paddlers in your age and experience levels. We are offering prizes, Werner whitewater paddles, videos, etc. to fuel your interest in this game of speed and accuracy. We are hoping to host a Spring Race to kick off the end of the pool season with big prizes !! Maybe even a new whitewater kayak !!!

Where: Bartlett High School Pool, Anchorage
When: 130-300 PM

Dates: December 12, January 16, February 27, March 13, April 10 & 24.

Pre-requisites: Payment, a confident wet exit with a skirt, basic skills. Cost: $30/person - cash/check only

Winter Sea Kayaking Weekends of 2010-2011
with the Alaska Kayak School, Kachemak Bay, Homer, Alaska.

Winter sea kayaking is a unique activity here in Homer, where wintering marine birds and wildlife combine with the scenic backdrop of the Kenai and Cook Inlet Mountain Ranges to provide breath-taking vistas. Not many people would normally think of sea kayaking in Alaska in the winter, but the relatively mild climate of our little town, as Alaskan climates go, is perfectly amenable to winter paddlers.

Sea Kayakers with level 2 Coastal Kayaking Skills and higher will benefit from paddling in Kachemak Bay in the winter. Many weekends the winds are light and it’s often sunny and above freezing here in Homer, and we take advantage of it, we’d love it if you joined us for such marvelous winter fun. Surf and paddling in tidal streams is also on the agenda many winter days.

We provide the kayaks, paddles, etc., and you provide your clothing. If you don’t have your own dry suit, we may be able to provide one for you, but please ask, we don’t keep many suits in stock until after March 1 of each year. Weather permitting, skills to work on during one of the winter weekends include: cold weather paddling clothing, level 2, 3, and 4 Coastal Kayaking Skills, Tides and Currents, Navigation Planning, paddling in wind and waves, introduction to the surf zone, paddling in tidal streams, refinement of strokes and maneuvers, balance and bracing. Just getting out and paddling is a great treat, and the beaches are deserted, it is sweet, hope you can make it.

Convenient winter weekend fun. Bottom line is this: you can come to Homer with just your clothing, including your dry suit and you can paddle 1-2 days in winter wonderland, no need to bring your sea kayak, just use one of ours. We normally have a wide array of paddles to use as well, Werner and Lendal. Paddling in Kachemak Bay in winter is not only stunningly beautiful, it is crazy fun, and the only crowds are the flocks of wintering marine birds, sea otters, harbor seals, etc. We normally paddle 1-2 weekends a month all winter, come join the winter sports fun in Homer, sea kayak Kachemak Bay in winter. Not ideally suited to novices and beginners, for more information and bookings, please call (907) 235-2090, email [email protected]. (online registration).

Fees & Cost

1) Instruction + kayak + dry suit and other accessories: $85/day* or $150* for the weekend, *Local sales taxes apply, 7.5% in Homer. We can accommodate you if we have a dry suit and kayak in your size, please call or send in a registration form with your needs.

2) Instruction + kayak only (includes skirt, paddle, and PFD, helmet, etc. id needed):
$70/day* & $130* weekend *Local sales taxes apply. Please contact us to see if we have a kayak to suit you.
3) You have all your own gear **– $45/day*; $80* for the weekend
** Gear list - sea kayak with 2-3 bulkheads, waterproof compartments, deck lines, & surf toggles; dry suit, PFD, skirt, paddle, helmet, helmet liner, gloves, extra clothing in dry bags, warm clothing, etc., please contact us if you need more information.

Winter sea kayaking dates for 2010-2011

November 2010 Winter Sea Kayaking Dates

Sunday November 7 (noon - 5 PM); high tide 21.09’ @ 15:12 hrs. , Sunset 16:55 hrs.
Sunday November 21 (10 AM - 2 PM); high tide 19.73’ @ 13:36 hrs. , Sunset 16:28 hrs.
Saturday and Sunday November 27-28, noon – 5 PM. Open Water Paddling on neap tides.

December 2010 Winter Sea Kayaking Dates

Sunday December 5 (noon - 5 PM); high tide 20.89’ @ 13:32 hrs. , Sunset 16:09 hrs.
Sunday December 19, (noon-5 PM); high tide 18.31 @ 12:34 hrs., Sunset 16:05 hrs.
Solstice Paddling, December 21, Tuesday, noon-4 PM, 20.03’ high tide at 14:00 hrs., sunset 16:05 hrs.
Thursday December 23rd, noon-4 PM, high tide 20.36’ @ 15:26 hrs., sunset 16:06 hrs.

January 2011 Winter Sea Kayaking Dates

NEW YEAR’s DAY TRADITION – Saturday & Sunday, 1-2 January 2011, 11 AM -3 PM, high tide 18.41’ @ 11:46 hrs. on 1st, 19.02’ @ 12:40 hrs. on Sunday 2nd, sunset 16:17 hrs.
NEW YEAR’s WEEK – Big tides between 18’-20’ during mid-day all week (1st-6th) provide favorable tides for paddling from the 1st, New Year’s Day through to Thursday the 6th. If you’re interested in paddling, contact us, email or call.
Sunday, January 23, paddle 1-5 PM, high tide 19.69’ @ 16:52 hrs, Sunset 17:01 hrs.

February 2011 Winter Sea Kayaking Dates

Sunday, February 6, paddle noon-4 PM, high tide 18.09’ @ 16:18 hrs., Sunset 17:36 hrs.
Sunday, February 20, paddle noon-5 PM, high tide 21.48’ @ 15:52 hrs., sunset 18:25 hrs.

March 2011 Winter Sea Kayaking Dates

Sunday, March 6, paddle noon-4 PM, high tide 18.96’ @ 15:24 hrs., Sunset 18:45 hrs.
Sunday, March 20, paddle noon-5 PM, high tide 21.72’ @ 15:54, Sunset 20:20 hrs.

April 2011 Winter Sea Kayaking Dates

Saturday-Sunday, April 2-3, paddle noon-6 PM, high tide 18.05’ and 18.44’ @ 14:58 & 15:32 hrs., respectively, Sunset 20:52 hrs.
Saturday-Sunday, April 17-18, paddle noon-5 PM, high tide 20.27’ and 20.64’ @ 14:54 & 15:42 hrs., respectively, Sunset 20:52 hrs.

British Sea Kayak Festival, 2-5 September 2011, Halibut Cove

Click HERE to download the Festival poster

Skills and Rescue Training, Sea Kayak Demos, Navigation Workshop, Sea Kayaks in Fast current, night paddling, beach camping and more … much more

IMGP4386bsf#2.jpg

End the 2011 summer in a whirlwind of beach camping, sea kayaking fun and learning. Demo and learn to use British Sea Kayaks in a stunning natural setting of Halibut Cove and Kachemak Bay State Park. Enjoy three days of courses and activities, including night paddling, in the scenic beauty of Kachemak Bay State Park.

Highlights of the 2011 British Sea Kayak Festival: 3 days of sea kayak skills and rescue training focusing on all the skills that are facilitated by British Sea Kayaks (bow rudder, sideslip, Cowboy scramble, easy assisted rescues), beach camping, navigation workshop, practice paddling sea kayaks in fast current in a safe setting, participate in a sea kayak navigation workshop, participate in a night paddling exercise, and if you want to continue to improve on your skills, take advantage of scheduled classes and impromptu coaching sessions and or American Canoe Association Coastal Kayaking Level 2 & 3 skills assessments.

British Sea Kayak Festival
Itinerary

2 September, Friday
Water taxi departure from Homer Spit, water taxi to Halibut Cove 5:30 PM **.

3 September, Saturday
9 AM-12 PM - British Sea Kayak Demos and skills training: strokes and maneuvers, rescues and recoveries, towing.

1-3 PM – Skills and Rescue Training

430-8 PM – Maneuvering sea kayaks in fast current, or additional skills training.

4 September, Sunday
9 AM – 12 PM, Sea Kayak Navigation & trip planning workshop, or skills training (upon demand), or informal trip in Halibut Cove area – choices !!!

1 PM – 4 PM, Custom coaching sessions: strokes and maneuvers, rescues and recoveries, great preparation for level 2 and 3 skills assessments which will take place on Monday, 5 September.

5-6 PM, meeting in preparation for night paddling exercise.

9 PM, preparations for night paddle begin, launch as its getting dark.
10-12 PM, Night paddle in Halibut Cove.

5 September, Monday
9 AM – 2 PM, Level 2-3 Coastal Kayak Journeys with level 2-3 assessments, or custom coaching sessions if you don’t want to be assessed.

2-4 PM – Break camp & clean up the beach area

5 PM – water taxi departures back to the Homer Spit.

We provide: All kayaking instruction and equipment can be provided. Kokatat dry suits, kayaks by Nigel Dennis, Valley, and North Shore, paddles by Werner and Lendal, Snap Dragon skirts, etc. You will use he best gear in the industry.

You Provide: Water taxi fees ($80.33rt)***, all camping gear, food and water + personal camping supplies, rustic accommodations in a yurt are available, please ask, or reserve the Right Beach yurt for 2, 3, and 4 September at www.alaskanyurtrentals.com. To get the $80.30 rate, you must: 1) provide water taxi payment to the Kayak School and we can pay Mako, 2) travel on the water taxi on the established schedule with the rest of the students and all the gear.

Travel Note: If you need to make other arrangements for travel to the Festival, you can pay Mako’s Water Taxi standard rate, around $85, and you’ll need to pay a gear transport fee of $20 (if using our gear), and you can make your own reservation, call Mako’s Water taxi (907) 235-2090. If you have your own gear, and are not using our boats/drysuits, etc., you won’t have to pay us to take gear over, you can work out your reservations with Mako’s directly.

Fees for British Sea Kayak Festival
• Instruction and all gear - $135/day/person, or $275/3 days
• Instruction & kayak or dry suit - $115/ day/person, $ 250/3 days.
• Instruction only (you have your own gear) - $100/ day/person, $175/3 days.
• Water taxi to Halibut Cove - $85 rt payable to Mako’s Water Taxi, tax included.
• Homer Sales tax applies, 7.5%.

Advance registration is needed, we only have so many sea kayaks and dry suits dry suits of each size, so if you want to participate in the Festival, register ASAP. In addition your advance registration allows us to “sign on” quality instructors such as Ryan Collins (Paddler’s Realm) and Charlie Franz (Homer) for your learning fun.

More information: Contact [email protected], (907) 235-2090, (online registration) [email protected], Payment in full (or a credit card to secure your reservation), a completed registration form, terms and conditions and medical history establishes your reservation. Email or call for more information. Please contact us for more information and copies of the forms needed.

American Canoe Association Level 3-4 Coastal Kayak Skills Training/Assessment & Instructor Development Workshop (IDW) and Instructor Certification Exam (ICE), Homer & Halibut Cove, September 5-11, 2011.

From the 5th to 11th of September 2010, the Alaska Kayak School will be hosting Dale Williams, a Level 5 American Canoe Association Coastal Instructor Trainer Educator (ITE), and we will be offering an Open Water Instructor Training (IDW) and Exam (ICE) here in Homer.

This is an adaptable program that will certify candidates at their highest level of performance. As long as conditions develop, some level 4 training and assessment will be possible for qualified candidates.

This will be a diverse program and will include:
1. ACA Level 3-4 Coastal Kayak Skills Training & Assessment.
2. Instructor Development Workshop (IDW), to prepare you for an Instructor Certification Exam and fulfill the IDW requirement for attending an ICE.
3. Instructor Certification Exam, to become an instructor at levels 1-4.
4. An opportunity for you to update your ACA Coastal Kayak certification to stay current.
5. An opportunity to upgrade your Coastal Kayak certification from a lower level, say level 2, to a higher level, say level 3 or
6. "Potential" outcomes for instructor candidates include: Coastal Kayak level 1, 2, 3 or 4 skills certification, and/or instructor certification level 1-4, depending on where you are in your development and performance, and the conditions we have during the course.
7. All sea kayaking equipment can be provided for a fee, and we reserve to privilege to "require" essential gear we can provide if in fact you don't have it or can't get, beg or borrow from others. (see below).

Logistics:
1. Most (if not all) of the program, weather permitting, will take place in Homer, will be based on a beach in Halibut Cove, giving us access to calm water, open water and tidal streams.
2. We will be camping, but there is a yurt and we have a couple of portable camp buildings we can set up as shelters for meetings. You'd have to provide your own food and camping gear, and be self-sufficient on the beach while camping, including a tarp system you could cook under in the event of rain.
3. The program will start on the 5th of September, 2011, so you'd need to be in Homer the evening of the 4th, and to take full advantage of Dale's visit and the conditions needed, especially for the level 4 training aspect, you'd want to be here on the Peninsula and available 5th through the 11th.
4. Update and upgrade candidates may finish the course in less than 7 days, but the longer program guarantees more time for the conditions needed for the level skills 4 training and the training/updates/upgrades for level 4 instructors and level 4 candidates.

Requirements for Attending this Coastal Kayak Level 3-4 IDW-ICE: as a minimum, you must:

Be a current ACA member ($40) AND pay your membership to the ACA’s Safety Education and Instruction Committee, $25, must be current, or you need to pay before the program starts.
You must hold an ACA Coastal Kayak Level 2 award or higher. If you have the skills, but can't make an assessment in advance, please call to discuss the issue, 907.235.2090 (office), 907.299.0061 (cell). You still have time to get with Tom or any other level 2 instructor or higher, and complete a level 2 assessment – contact the Alaska Kayak School or visit the ACA website to view a CK L2 Assessment Criteria.
Costs of IDW-ICE:
1) Instructor Candidates: The 7 day program for instructor candidates is $799 + 7.5% sales tax, and a minimum $500 deposit to get a reservation for the program. For savings, pay in full by August 15th, 2010, $749+ tax.
2) Update Candidates: Instructors needing to update to stay current, $549 + 7.5% sales tax, and a minimum $400 deposit to get a reservation for the program. For savings, pay in full by August 15th, 2010, $525 + tax.
3) Certification Upgrade candidates: Instructors wanting to upgrade their certifications to a higher level, $549 + tax. For savings, pay in full by August 15th, 2010, $525 + tax.
4) You must be an ACA member and an member of the ACA’s SEIC, to attend, please get your membership number in advance (you can become a member online from the ACA website: http://www.americancanoe.org/site/c.lvIZIkNZJuE/b.4343035/k.D5BB/Join_ACA.htm)

Other Costs:
1. Water Taxi - The water taxi to the training site in Halibut Cove will be approximately $85 with tax round trip, a discounted rate.
2. Your own food, water, and camping gear (tent, tarp, bear-proof food storage, stove and fuel, etc.) will be your cost.
3. Sea Kayaking Equipment needed (see attached list), includes a sea kayak that conforms to the standards for an ACA instructor in cold water, dry suit that offers protection from the effects of cold water immersion, helmet, and all other safety items needed: pump, towline, repair kit, first aid kit, extra clothing and repair kit, dry bags, shelter, etc. Contact us for a complete equipment list, or you'll receive one once you register.
4. For $399 tax included, per participant the Alaska Kayak School can provide all the sea kayaking equipment: sea kayak (Valley, NDK or North Shore), paddle and spare paddle, Kokatat Gore-tex drysuits, spray skirt, PFD, pump, towline, helmet, helmet liner, neoprene gloves, booties, etc. Register before July 15^th, and get $50 off the gear rental.

Skills and Certification Requirements: Please see the ACA website for all the details.
http://www.americancanoe.org/site/c.lvIZIkNZJuE/b.4486093/k.98B2/For_Instructors.htm
http://www.americancanoe.org/site/c.lvIZIkNZJuE/b.4343455/k.86FB/Learn_to_Paddle.htm

Please contact me with more questions and any other details.

Space is limited. If you want to attend this program, register soon.
Pre-registration is essential !!
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2011 Calendar of Events, Trips and Courses

May

June, July & August

September

June, July & August

2011 Guided Trips & Expeditions

Pool Kayak Training Schedule Winter 2010 – 2011

Homer Community Recreation Courses@ Kate Kuhns Aquatic Center – Homer High School

Winter Sea Kayaking Weekends of 2010-2011 with the Alaska Kayak School, Kachemak Bay, Homer, Alaska.

British Sea Kayak Festival, 2-5 September 2011, Halibut Cove

Click HERE to download the Festival poster

Skills and Rescue Training, Sea Kayak Demos, Navigation Workshop, Sea Kayaks in Fast current, night paddling, beach camping and more … much more

Winter Sea Kayaking Weekends of 2010-2011
with the Alaska Kayak School, Kachemak Bay, Homer, Alaska.