Alaska Kayak School Calendar

January - April

Introductory Kayaking Skills Learn the basics in six 1.5 hour pool sessions in small plastic play boats: fun, safety, kayak fit, posture, balance, safe use of the body, wet exits, basic control - forward, back, stop, sideways, turn, spin, brace, support and more. Includes basic rescues, cold water paddling awareness, and hypothermia/shock-drowning prevention. 1 and 2 star BCU skills. All equipment provided (except bathing suit). 235-2090 for info.
When: Every Monday, 830-100 PM
Dates: March 20, 27, April 3, 10, 17, and 24.
Where: Homer High School Pool
No pre-requisites.
Cost: $175 w/ sales tax and HCS fee.

Intermediate Kayaking Skills @ Homer Community Schools. Develop strong boat control skills, finesse, and solid rescues by taking an "adventure in kayaking skills" course using the pool and small plastic play boats. Six action-packed pool sessions for honing strokes and maneuvers, balance, safety, use of the body, and the performance of specific strokes and maneuvers: draw, low and high braces, bow and stern rudders, sculling, beginnings of Eskimo rolling and more. 2 and 3 star BCU skills. All equipment provided (except bathing suit). 235-2090 for info.
When: Every Tuesday - 830-100 PM
Dates: March 21, 28, April 4, 11, 18, and 25.
Where: Homer High School Pool
Pre-requisite: previous kayak training

Cost: $175 w/ sales tax and HCS feeRegister w/ Community Schools (x6090) and Alaska Kayak School (x2090)(online form)

Sea Kayak Rescues @ Homer Community Schools. Safety features of sea kayak, risk management and rescues, efficient assisted and solo rescues: t-rescue, t-x rescue, yank and pump, cowboy scramble, paddle float and double rescues, plus many others, including towing, tractor push, and more. We teach 31 useful sea kayak rescues, but you won't know'em if you don't take our course, all in the comfort of a warm pool. Very appropriate for sea kayak guides or anyone who paddles a sea kayak.
When: Every Wednesday
Dates: March 22, 29, April 5, 12, 19, and 26.
Times: 830-1000 PM
Where: Homer High School, and HHS Pool
Pre-requisite: previous skills training or permission
Cost: $185 w/ sales tax and HCS fee.

Eskimo Rolling Workshop @ Homer Community Schools. Learn or tune and develop the ultimate self-rescue in a kayak, the Eskimo Roll. We teach the safe-shoulder version of the Eskimo Roll, the sweep roll. Learn the parts of the roll: set-up, sweep, hip-knee rotation, the finish position, and try to put it all together in 6 weeks. You will work with us to develop good technique and then you'll help each other work on your rolls with our support and supervision. Video analysis of your rolls will help you get there more effectively.
Days: Thursdays
Dates: March 23, 30, April 6, 13, 20, and 27
Times: 830-1000PM
Cost: $175 w/ tax and HCS fee
Pre-requisites: intermediate skills

Optional Kayak Pool Practice sessions for Kayak School Students- Kayak, paddle, skirt, helmet and light coaching provided.
When: Fridays as needed, from 20 March to 29 April
Where: Homer High School Pool
Times: as available, 830-1000 PM
Cost: $15 including tax + $5 HCS fee
Pre-requisites: kayak school student, alumni or permission.

Applied Sea Skills Apply intermediate kayaking skills to the conditions in Kachemak Bay: wind waves and current. This is the perfect course for hardy intermediate kayakers that are itching to get on the water in early spring to learn and practice open water skills before summer. Four outdoor paddling sessions on one Sunday afternoon in March (26th), and three Sunday afternoons in April (2, 9, and 23rd). Emphasis on British Canoe Union Four Star Sea Kayak syllabus skills. Clothing and gear, kayak selection, paddling in wind waves and current, control in surf, group awareness, route selection and navigation, rescues, towing, and more. All equipment provided.
When: Sundays 12 Noon - 5 PM
Dates: March 26, April 2, 9, and 23.
Where: meet Captain's Coffee or location to be announced, @ 12 Noon.
Pre-requisite: Intermediate Kayaking skills or permission.

Cost: $195 w/ sales tax and Community Schools fee.
Register: Community Schools (x6090) and Alaska Kayak School (x2090) (online form)

Applied Intermediate Kayaking Skills, Night Slalom - Homer. Apply your intermediate skills and paddle a play boat in the Homer Boat harbor or other protected waters one Friday evening a month after work. These venues are all well lit by large lights. This activity is a fantastic way to build your skills by paddling outdoors in the fall winter and early spring. Learn about hypothermia prevention and clothing for cold water paddling and using a dry suit and warm paddling attire. All equipment provided, including dry suits and all the bells and whistles. You provide appropriate personal clothing and a thermos with a warm drink of your choice.
Days: One Friday a month from October to April
Dates: to be announced
Times: 7-9 PM
Where: Homer Spit
Pre-requisites: Introductory and Intermediate skills or permission
Cost: $70 for members of the public; $35/$25 for club members. Sales tax included.
Register: Alaska Kayak School (235-2090),

Soldotna Pool Kayaking Skills Series -

Summary: We teach fundamental kayaking skills in the comfort of Soldotna High School Pool using maneuverable river kayaks. Safety, fun and paddling skills are the focus. 3 hour introductory sessions (9am-12pm), intermediate session with Eskimo rolling workshop (1230-430 pm) and sea safety and rescue (5-7 pm) will be offered 1 Saturday a month in the starting November 12, December 3, January 28, February 11, March 25 and April 8. The skills taught in the courses can lead to personal kayaking skill certifications. 3-hr. courses are $50, 4 hour courses are $60, 2 hour course is $45 and include all equipment and instruction, just bring a swimsuit. Discounts for multiple registrations, $5 discount for each additional course you take. Professional instructors/coaches from American Canoe Association and British Canoe Union are the instructors. Register @ Soldotna High School Pool (262-7419), or Wilderness Way in Soldotna. Register online @ www.alaskakayakschool.com/calendar, or call 235-2090.
email info@alaskakayakschool.com.
Purpose
To offer instruction in fundamental flat water kayaking skills, sea kayak safety and rescue skills, and Eskimo rolling workshops in the comfort of the heated pool at Soldotna High School one Saturday a month from November 2005 until April or May 2006. All courses are taught by certified kayaking instructors and coaches of the American Canoe Association and British Canoe Union. Learn safe and efficient kayaking skills and have a ton of fun in the process. All equipment provided except your bathing suit. See below for course descriptions, schedules and registration information.

Note: As of January 2006, we have added a 2-hr. Eskimo rolling workshop to all the Intermediate skills sessions, ands made these 4 hours in length, an hour longer than previously scheduled.

We provide individualized instruction and coaching in 2-4 hour pool sessions each Saturday from November to April. These courses are taught using maneuverable plastic river kayaks and occasionally 2-4 plastic sea kayaks.

Proposed Dates - all Saturdays
November 12, 2005
December 3, 2005
January 28, 2006
Feb 11, 2006
March 25, 2006
April 8, 2006

Each Saturday, 3 courses will be offered:
Introduction to Kayaking 9 AM - 12 PM, 3 hours
Intermediate Kayaking Skills 1230-430 PM, 4 hours
and Sea Kayak Safety and Rescue 5-7 PM. 2 hours

Pricing - Four hour courses for $60/person/course, Three hour courses for $50/person/course, and 2 hour courses for $45/perswon/course (tax not included). There will be reduced pricing for participating in more than one course of the winter series: You will receive $5 off any additional courses you take.

What you need to bring: Bathing suit and a towel, and if you wear glasses, bring an eye-glasses retainer (Chums, Croakies, etc.)

We provide: All instruction and equipment: kayak, paddle, skirt, helmet.

Reservations/Registration: Register by email, phone or through the US Mail with Alaska Kayak School. Registration packet and information will be left at Soldotna High School Pool for mail-in registrations. Contact Alaska Kayak School, 235-2090 or info@alaskakayakschool.com. You can also register in person by visiting Wilderness Way (in Soldotna) or the Soldotna High School pool.

Youth and Families/Novices to Experienced paddlers. These courses are for paddlers of all levels of experience, our skills coaching program allows all paddlers to improve their kayaking skills.

Youngsters. Youth as young as 11 years old can benefit from participating in courses with adults, but Youth Kayaking Courses are appropriate for larger groups of younger paddlers 10-13 years old. We're happy to arrange a youth kayaking program to meet the demand, minimum of 8 students, please contact us for more information. We also do kayak birthday parties!! Ask for details.

Families are welcome. Mother-daughter, Father-son, and Parents-child(ren) groups have all enjoyed our courses in the past. It can be fun 2 learn together. If your youngsters are under 11, make sure they like (love water). If your youngster can't swim, best wait until they can do so confidently to tackle kayaking.

Swimming ability: Although you don't have to be a strong swimmer to take these courses, we've found that if you can't swim, you'll likely be reluctant to capsize and get wet. If you're confident in your swimming skills, you'll be fine. Contact us for more information if you have questions.

Course Descriptions

Introduction to Kayaking
Introductory courses are for novices, beginners and more experienced paddlers that have never had formal instruction, and cover materials included in the British Canoe Union's closed cockpit kayak 1 and 2 star awards, and the basic flat water skills for an American Canoe Association's Introduction to Kayaking course. Introductory courses emphasize understanding the relationships between your actions and the reactions of the kayak rather than strict performance of strokes and maneuvers (see intermediate skills). Includes a short primer on hypothermia prevention and clothing. Most skills included in British Canoe Union's 1 and 2 star closed cockpit kayak syllabus (www.bcuna.com).
Topics for Introductory course include:
Importance of warm-up & stretching
Safe carrying and launching
Equipment sizing
Fit to a boat
Parts of a boat and paddle
Use of the paddle
Safe body positions
Posture
Safe capsize and wet exit
Use of a spray skirt
Balance
Group awareness
Forward and back paddling under control
Stopping
Turning, and Moving sideways
Ruddering
Use of the lower body for balance and control
Use of the upper body for power
Simple rescues (with assistance)
Beginnings of edging, sculling and Eskimo rescues
Introduction to Eskimo rolling

Days: Saturdays
Dates: November 12; December 3; January 28; February 11; March 25; April 8.
Times: 9 AM - 12 PM
Cost: $50/person, Tax not included.
Pre-requisites: must be able to swim

Registration: Alaska Kayak School, phone 235-2090, email info@alaskakayakschool.com, ( online form)

Intermediate Skills and Eskimo Rolling Workshop
Intermediate skills courses are for paddlers that have developed their introductory skills (see above) and wish to achieve total control of the kayak. Emphasis is on technical performance of strokes and maneuvers. If you haven't taken the introductory course, you should consider it. The intermediate courses build on sound introductory skills, and "jumping ahead" will probably not help you develop efficient skills more quickly.
Intermediate Skills are the required flat water kayaking skills for paddlers wishing to guide, teach paddling, or become proficient kayakers. This is a large body of skills and knowledge, often taught during 2-3 days outdoors; it might take more than one intermediate pool course for you to master this fantastic set of skills. Great fun! This course includes materials in the British Canoe Union's closed cockpit kayak 2 and 3 Star award, the intermediate skills (www.bcuna.com). We are including a 2 hr. balance, bracing and Eskimo rolling workshop in every intermediate skills session!
Topics for Intermediate Skills Course include:
Efficient strokes and maneuvers
Efficient Forward, back, and draw
Stopping
Bow and stern rudders
Committed recovery and bracing strokes - high and low
Sculling draw and sculling for support
Combination strokes
Functional Eskimo rescues
Deep water assisted rescues
Confident edging
Confident wet exits
Hanging draw/side-slip
Draw on the move
Low brace on the move
Towing and use of a towline
Eskimo Rolling
YAWHOO (Your Angle Widens Hold On) and much more.

Days: Saturdays
Dates: November 12; December 3; January 28; February 11; March 25; April 8.
Times: 1230-430 PM
Cost: $60/person, $55/person if you've taken one of our classes before. Tax not included.
Pre-requisites: introductory skills

Registration: Alaska Kayak School, phone 235-2090

, email info@alaskakayakschool.com, (online form) at Alaska Kayak School online calendar.

Sea Kayak Safety and Rescue
Learn fast and efficient rescues for sea kayaking and water safety. Practice in a heated pool. We teach over 25 different rescues and all have different applications. The British Canoe Union's Canoe Safety test forms the basis for this course (www.bcuna.com).
Topics
Theory of Safety and Rescue
Kayak Control and Balance for Rescues
Spinning the kayak
Turning the Kayak
Rafting Up
Assisted Rescues - yank, t, t-x, H-I, Eskimo, scoop, sling, etc.
Solo Rescues - swim boat to shore, paddle float, cowboy, re-enter and roll
Cleopatra's Needle
Towing - with towline, towing without-towline
Eskimo rolling (when appropriate)

Great course for sea kayakers and especially for sea kayaking guides.

These 2-hour sessions focus on the skills needed to conduct rescues in a diversity of conditions. Build strong rescue skills and confidence. Also improve your kayak control, balance, recovery and bracing.
Days: Saturdays
Dates: November 12; December 3; January 28; February 11; March 25; April 8.
Times: 5 - 7 PM
Cost: $40/person, $35/person if you've taken one of our classes before.
Pre-requisites: Introductory and Intermediate kayaking skills or permission.

Registration: Alaska Kayak School, phone 235-2090, email info@alaskakayakschool.com, (online form) at Alaska Kayak School online calendar.

Soldotna Pool Kayaking Skills Series
Winter 2005-06

Background - For the last 3 winters, since fall of 2002 we have taught kayaking 3-5 times per week from October-April in the Homer Pool. We also taught 1-4 sessions a month in Anchorage at Service High School, Chugiak High School and Elmendorf Air Force Base since November 2003. We've offered and taught the following courses in pools: introductory kayaking skills, intermediate kayaking skills, Sea Kayak Safety and Rescue, and Eskimo rolling workshops. Dedicated youth kayaking courses emphasizing safety and fun have also been offered for 9-17 year old paddlers. Youth that are 11-18 years of age are good candidates for adult courses, and families are welcome.

Alaska Kayak School Pool Kayaking Program- Alaska Kayak School's pool kayaking courses consist of individualized coaching aimed at developing fundamental kayaking skills. We use maneuverable river kayaks in the comfort of a heated indoor swimming pool to enhance learning. The focus of the courses includes kayaking theory, strokes, maneuvers, and safety & rescue skills for fun, safety, and efficient kayaking. Students interested in developing their skills on a long-term basis can receive training and assessments by attending subsequent sessions and participating in out door courses in Homer.

Schedule and course content- We hope to offer 1 introductory course, 1 intermediate skills course, and 1 sea kayak safety and rescue course on one Saturday each month starting 12 November 2005 and continuing through April 2006. Eskimo rolling instruction will be offered as demand arises and in the intermediate skills courses. See the course descriptions above. The skills we teach allow candidates to pass the BCU star tests 1-3 for closed cockpit kayaking skills. See www.bcuna.com's literature pages.

Staffing - Certified kayak instructors of the America Canoe Association kayak instructors and British Canoe Union kayak coaches and qualified volunteers of the Alaska Kayak School will provide the training and assessments in the courses.

Training and Assessment - Students will be provided with personal skill checklists they can use to track the progress of their training and so they can develop action plans for the improvement. The skills sets we teach are the skills that form the basis for the testing and assessment* of flat-water skills at two levels:

Understanding the relationship between your actions and the reactions of the kayak; British canoe Union 1 and 2 star kayak skills, see introductory skills list of topics.

the performance of technical strokes and maneuvers, including Eskimo rolling; British Canoe Union 3 star kayak skills, see intermediate skills list of topics (above).

Safety and rescue skills included in the British Canoe Union's Canoe Safety Test form the basis for the Sea Kayak Safety and Rescue course, see Sea Kayak Safety and Rescue list of topics (above).

Assessments or personal skill tests can only be completed out of doors. Our courses prepare students to pass the flat-water skill assessments (BCU 1-3 star kayak skills and Canoe Safety test), which can be taken next spring, summer, or fall at the Alaska Kayak School in Homer of other locations by arrangement. The personal skill assessments can qualify paddlers to attend advanced skills training in sea, whitewater and surf and/or to participate in coach education and instructor training programs. Informal assessments, useful for developing personal action plans for skills development are conducted on an ad hoc basis in every course.

Anchorage Pool Kayaking Series
Sunday Skills Sessions
Service High School Pool
Introductory and Intermediate Flat water Skills
Sea Safety and Rescue
November 20, December 11, January 22
February 19, March 19, Apr 16

Summary: We teach fundamental kayaking skills in the comfort of Service High School Pool using maneuverable river kayaks. Safety, fun and paddling skills are the focus. Two primary courses will be offered: a 3.5 hour introductory (11 am - 230 pm), and 4 -hour intermediate skills course with Eskimo rolling workshop (3-7 pm). Courses will be held 1 weekend a month, mostly Sundays starting November 20, December 11, January 22, February 11, March 19 and April 16. A 4-hour Sea safety and Rescue course will be scheduled for March and April (as needed) The skills taught in these courses can lead to personal kayaking skill certifications. 3.5-hr. courses are $89, four-hour courses are $99. Subsequent courses discounted $5. All equipment and instruction is provided, just bring a swimsuit. Professional instructors/coaches from American Canoe Association and British Canoe Union are the instructors. Register online @ www.alaskakayakschool.com/calendar, or call 235-2090. email info@alaskakayakschool.com, you can also register at REI Customer Service in Anchorage.

Purpose
To offer instruction in fundamental flat water kayaking skills, sea kayak safety and rescue skills, and Eskimo rolling in the comfort of the heated pool at Service High School one Sunday a month from 20 November 2005 until 16 April 2006. All courses are taught by certified kayaking instructors and coaches of the American Canoe Association and British Canoe Union. Learn safe and efficient kayaking skills and have a ton of fun in the process. All equipment provided except your bathing suit. See below for course descriptions, schedules and registration information.

We provide individualized instruction and coaching in 3.5 and 4-hour pool sessions Sunday: Introduction to Kayaking (11 am - 230 pm), Intermediate Kayaking Skills with Eskimo rolling workshop (3 - 7 PM). The 4-hour Sea Kayak Safety and Rescue will be offered in March and April when at least 8 students can attend on a Saturday before noon, or after 5 pm or from 4-7 pm on a Sunday. These courses are taught using maneuverable plastic river kayaks and occasionally 2-4 sea kayaks. Students will be provided with kayak, paddle, helmet, skirt and all instruction.

NOTE: We have added an Eskimo rolling workshop to all the Intermediate Skills courses. See below.

Course Descriptions
Introduction to Kayaking
Introductory courses are for novices, beginners and more experienced paddlers that have never had formal instruction, and cover materials included in the British Canoe Union's closed cockpit kayak 1 and 2 star awards, and the basic flat water skills for an American Canoe Association's Introduction to Kayaking course. Introductory courses emphasize understanding the relationships between your actions and the reactions of the kayak rather than strict performance of strokes and maneuvers (see intermediate skills). Includes a short primer on hypothermia prevention and clothing. Most skills included in British Canoe Union's 1 and 2 star closed cockpit kayak syllabus (www.bcuna.com).
Topics include:
Importance of warm-up & stretching
Safe carrying and launching
Equipment sizing
Fit to a boat
Parts of a boat and paddle
Use of the paddle
Safe body positions
Posture
Safe wet exit
Use of a spray skirt
Balance
Group awareness
Forward and back paddling under control
Stopping
Turning, and Moving sideways
Ruddering
Use of the lower body for balance and control
Use of the upper body for power
Simple rescues (with assistance),
Beginnings of edging, sculling and Eskimo rescues
Introduction to Eskimo rolling
Schedule:
Days: Sundays
Dates: November 20, December 11, January 22, February 19, March 19, Apr 16
Times: 11 AM to 230 PM
Cost: $89 per person.
Pre-requisites: must be able to swim

Registration: Alaska Kayak School, phone 235-2090, email info@alaskakayakschool.com, (online form)

Intermediate Skills with Eskimo rolling worksop
Intermediate skills courses are for paddlers that have developed their introductory skills (see above) and wish to achieve total control of the kayak. Emphasis is on technical performance of strokes and maneuvers. If you haven't taken the introductory course, you should consider it. The intermediate courses build on sound introductory skills, and "jumping ahead" will probably not help you develop efficient skills more quickly. Intermediate Skills are the required flat water kayaking skills for paddlers wishing to guide, teach paddling, or become proficient kayakers. This is a large body of skills and knowledge, often taught during 2-3 days outdoors. It might take more than one intermediate pool course for you to master this fantastic set of skills. Great fun! This course includes materials in the British Canoe Union's closed cockpit kayak 2 and 3 Star award, the intermediate skills (www.bcuna.com). An Eskimo rolling workshop will be held the last 2 hours of this 4-hour course.

Topics
Efficient strokes and maneuvers
Forward, back, draw
Stopping
Bow and stern rudders
Committed recovery and bracing strokes
Sculling draw and sculling for support
Combination strokes
Functional Eskimo rescues
Deep water assisted rescues
Confident edging
Confident wet exits
Hanging draw/side-slip
Draw on the move
Low brace on the move
Towing and use of a towline
Eskimo Rolling
YAWHOO and much more.

Days: Sundays
Dates: November 20, December 11, January 22, February 19, March 19, Apr 16
Times: 3-7 PM
Cost: $99 per person; $94 if taken with Introduction.
Pre-requisites: introductory skills

Registration: Alaska Kayak School, phone 235-2090, email info@alaskakayakschool.com, (online form) at Alaska Kayak School online registration and payment.

Sea Kayak Safety and Rescue.
Learn fast and efficient rescues for sea kayaking and water safety. Practice in a heated pool. We teach over 25 different rescues and all have different applications. Get on the list! This is one fun course!! Enroll now, space is limited.
Theory of Safety and rescue
Kayak Control and Balance for Rescues
Spinning the kayak
Turning the Kayak
Rafting Up
Assisted Rescues - yank, t, t-x, H-I, Eskimo, scoop, sling, etc.
Solo Rescues - paddle float, cowboy, re-enter and roll
Cleopatra's Needle
Towing - with towline, towing without-towline
Eskimo rolling (when appropriate)

Great course for all touring and sea kayakers; especially for guides.

This course focuses on the skills needed to conduct rescues in a diversity of conditions. Build strong rescue skills and confidence. Also improve your kayak control, balance, recovery and bracing.
Days: Saturday afternoons
Dates: March 18, April 15
Times: 530 Pm - 830 PM
Cost: $100, or $95 for AKS alumni.

Pre-requisites: Introductory and Intermediate kayaking skills or permission. $5 discount if you've taken intro or intermediate previously.Registration: Alaska Kayak School, phone 235-2090, email info@alaskakayakschool.com , (online form) at Alaska Kayak School online registration and payment or visit REI Customer Service in Anchorage.

Anchorage Pool Kayaking Skills Series
Winter 2005-06

Background - For the last 3 winters, since fall of 2002 we have taught kayaking 3-5 times per week from October-April in the Homer Pool. We also taught 1-4 sessions a month in Anchorage at Service High School, Chugiak High School and Elmendorf Air Force Base since November 2003. We've offered and taught the following courses in pools: introductory kayaking skills, intermediate kayaking skills, Sea Kayak Safety and Rescue, and Eskimo rolling workshops. Dedicated youth kayaking courses emphasizing safety and fun have also been offered for 9-17 year old paddlers. Youth that are 13-18 years of age are good candidates for adult courses, and families are welcome.

Pool Kayaking Program- Alaska Kayak School's pool kayaking courses consist of individualized coaching aimed at developing fundamental kayaking skills. We use maneuverable river kayaks in the comfort of a heated indoor swimming pool to enhance learning. The focus of the courses includes kayaking theory, strokes, maneuvers, and safety & rescue skills for fun, safety, and efficient kayaking. Students interested in developing their skills on a long-term basis can receive training and assessments by attending subsequent sessions and participating in out door courses in Homer.

We provide: Kayaks, paddles, skirts, helmets, all instruction and skills checklists.

You provide: Bathing suit and energy. Eye-glass retainers if you wear glasses.

Schedule and course content- We offer 1 introductory course and 1 intermediate skills course w/ rolling workshop each selected Sunday from November 2005 through April 2006. Sea kayak safety and rescue courses will be offered when we have enough students to schedule another pool session (either Saturday before noon, Saturday after 5 pm, or during one of the two slots on Sundays), please email us if you're interested.
See course descriptions above.

Each Sunday,
Introduction to Kayaking will be offered 11 AM to 230 PM
Intermediate Kayaking Skills w/ Eskimo Rolling Workshop from 3-7 PM
and Sea Kayak Safety and Rescue offered upon demand, either Saturday before 130 PM, or after 5 PM, or during the intermediate time slot on Sunday, 3-7 PM.

Proposed Dates - all Sundays
November 20, 2005
December 11, 2005
January 22, 2006
Feb 19, 2006
March 19, 2006
April 16, 2006

Staffing - Certified kayak instructors of the American Canoe Association, kayak coaches of the British Canoe Union and qualified volunteers of the Alaska Kayak School will provide all the training and assessments in the courses.

Pricing - The first Introductory Skills 3.5-hour course is $89. Any subsequent additional courses will be discounted $5. If you take the introductory course, the 4-hour intermediate course is $94. If you take an intermediate or introductory course, Sea Safety ands Rescue is discounted $5 (either $84 for 3.5-hour course or $94 for 4-hour course). Dollar for dollar this is twice as much pool time and instruction as our competition tries to offer.

Reservations/Registration: Register online with the kayak school (from the course descriptions off the calendar), email us, phone or through the US Mail with Alaska Kayak School. Registration packet and course information will be left at REI Anchorage Customer Service for your convenience. Contact Alaska Kayak School, 235-2090, info@alaskakayakschool.com (online form)

Spit Paddling (Winter) - Any afternoon with moderate air temperatures (above 32°F) and light winds (10 knots or less) is a great time to paddle in the calm waters in the vicinity of the Homer Spit. The snow-covered mountain backdrop of Kachemak Bay State Park is awe-inspiring. Wintering sea birds, Bald Eagles, Sea Otters, and Harbor Seals can’t be wrong, it’s the place to be. 2-4 hours of paddling in immersion wear if conditions allow is a normal winter cruise. If you're itching' to get on the water and want a unique sea paddling experience, this is it. Spit Paddling!
When: Any afternoon with air temps above 32°F and winds < 10 knots (11.5 mph), call or email for current forecast.
Dates: Jan 1 - April 30, October 15 to Dec 31.
Times: no earlier than 12 Noon
Where: Captain's Coffee (295 E. Pioneer Ave.)
Pre-requisite: previous Sea Kayaking experience, permission of guides
Cost: $75 for members of the public; $35/$25 for club members. Sales tax included.
Register: Alaska Kayak School (235-2090), info@alaskakayakschool.com (online form)

Sunday Sea Paddles: Sea Duck Watching. Weather Permitting !! Many Sundays enjoy light winds, air temperatures 30-40F and calm seas. These are ideal afternoons for sea kayaking near the Homer Spit. Dry suits, gloves, warm headgear all required (or provided). Designed for experienced paddlers wishing to learn about winter paddling or Alaska Kayak School students ready to make the transition from the pool to the bay.
When: Sunday afternoons January to April, and October to December
Dates: by appointment only
Where: meet at Captain's Coffee, 295 E. Pioneer Ave.
Pre-requisites: Alaska Kayak School students and members of the public with open water paddling skills.
Cost: $75 for members of the public; $35/$25 for club members. Sales tax included.
Register: Alaska Kayak School (235-2090), info@alaskakayakschool.com (online form)

Surf Zone - for Sea Kayakers and play boaters. Learn and practice the dynamics of paddling in the Surf Zone: reading the surf, where does surf come from?, safety in the surf zone, surf etiquette, launching and landing, paddling out, wave selection, the take off, bottom turns, side surfing, avoiding collisions, safe swimming in the surf, and much more. All equipment provided. Functional "Pool" Eskimo roll recommended.
Dates: "on call" depending on conditions, register to get on the list
Where: meet at Captain's Coffee (295 E. Pioneer), time to be arranged
Pre-requisites: Intro and Intermediate Skills, Wind and Waves or permission
Cost: $85 for members of the public; $35/$25 for club members. Sales tax included.
Register: Alaska Kayak School (235-2090), info@alaskakayakschool.com (online form)
NOTE: to be on call for the surf zone, send a registration email to us!!!
NOTE2: The surfing conditions are variable but frequent in Homer's autumn, winter and spring, its as much fun as you can have in a kayak.
NOTE3: We don't recommend you try paddling in surf without reasonably consistent rolling skills, BCU 3 star kayak or 4 star sea kayak skills are recommended.

Rough Water Paddling in Sea Kayaks- practice paddling in high winds and bigger waves, and build your confidence and balance in rough sea conditions. Gain control and maneuverability in demanding conditions, improve your group awareness and safety, balance and bracing. We set this course up so there is a safe haven/escape route nearby AND we have safety boater(s).
Dates: "on call" depending on conditions, please register to get on the list.
Where: meet at Captain's Coffee (295 E. Pioneer), time to be arranged
Pre-requisites: Intro and Intermediate Skills, Wind and Waves or permission
Cost: $85 for members of the public; $35/$25 for club members. Sales tax included.
Register: Alaska Kayak School (235-2090),info@alaskakayakschool.com (online form)
NOTE: to be on call for rough water, send a registration email to us!!!
NOTE2: The rough water conditions are variable but frequent in Homer's autumn, winter and spring, its as much fun as you can have in a kayak.
NOTE3: We don't recommend you try this without reasonably consistent bracing skills. British Canoe Union 3 star closed cockpit kayaking skills are recommended.

Introduction to Sea Kayak Navigation. Learn and practice fundamental route finding, trip planning and map and chart skills. Learn about time and distance, tides and currents, rules of the road, and more. Shoot a bearing, follow a bearing, magnetic and True. Great for guides. Really fun, and important for safety and seamanship.
Dates: Once a month, or on demand
Where: meet at Captain's Coffee (295 E. Pioneer),
Time to be arranged, usually takes 2 hours or so
Pre-requisites: Kayaked once before class
Cost: $20 for members of the public; $10 for club members. Sales tax included
Register: Alaska Kayak School (235-2090), info@alaskakayakschool.com (online form)

Applied sea kayak navigation I . Following a course in daylight. You've taken introduction to sea kayak navigation, and you have basic control of a sea kayak in up to light winds and small waves? This is an introduction to planning a trip and then doing it. This course can easily be blended with Spit paddling or a Sunday Paddle. We cover and review tides and currents, weather and sea conditions, route planning, route following, using a chart on the water, and much more. Great course for guides or paddlers planning long trips or expeditions. Equipment provided.
Dates: Once every 2 months, or on demand
Where: meet at Captain's Coffee (295 E. Pioneer),
Time to be arranged,
Pre-requisites: Intro to sea navigation, intro and intermediate kayaking skills.
Cost: $85 for members of the public; $35/$25 for club members. Sales tax included
Register: Alaska Kayak School (235-2090),info@alaskakayakschool.com (online form)

Night Paddling Sea Kayaks @ Homer Spit. Homer's mild fall and winter weather is one of Alaska's best kept secretes! The Homer Spit provides a wealth of protected paddling locations that are well-lit in winter with mercury-halogen lamps. On those mild 30-40F nights its great fun to get outs in the evenings and explores the Harbor and other well lit destinations on the Spit. Awesome cure for winter blues. Launch times starting at 330-4 PM, 2-3 hours paddling depending on conditions. Equipment provided.
Dates: by appointment only, please register
Where: meet at Captain's Coffee (295 E. Pioneer), time to be arranged
Pre-requisites: Introductory and Intermediate skills, & have sea kayaked before
Cost: $55 for members of the public; $35/$25 for club members. Sales tax included.
Register: Alaska Kayak School (235-2090), info@alaskakayakschool.com (online form)

Friday's Paddling Film Series. View modern and historic paddling videos on VHS and DVD. One-hour exploration into the diversity and skills for paddling sea kayaks, whitewater kayaks, canoes and more … Locally filmed and produced films of Homer and Alaska, as well as films from Scott Lindgren, Teton Gravity Research, Epicocity Project, Lunch Video Magazine, Young Gun Productions, and more new cool water-funflicks.
When: Fridays
Times: 5-6 PM
Dates: to be announced
Where: Captain's Coffee, 295 E. Pioneer Ave.
FREE, just buy a drink to thank Captain's Coffee
More information: 235-2090 (kayak school), 235-4970 (captain's coffee)

Applied Sea Skills for Open and Moving Water (BCU 4 star sea kayak training). Apply fundamental kayaking skills to the ocean environment: safety, turns, edging, balance, propulsion, bracing and more. Check it out. Days with the air temperatures near 32 degrees Fahrenheit or higher (warmer) and calm to light/moderate winds (to 10 knots) are great for tuning your sea kayaking skills in the vicinity of the Homer Spit. We can teach and coach open water and surf skills as well as moving water skills (on the right tides) in this fantastic learning ground. Flow is mild on lower tides, and quite aggressive on higher tides. Once you've surfed a tidal rapid in a sea kayak, you'll see why tidal play in sea boats is so addictive. Great rough water practice in a safe setting. All equipment provided.

Dates: Open Water Skills, any day; Moving Water skills, any day with 17-18 ft tide in daylight for learners; tides over 19 ft for advanced paddlers, or paddlers with Eskimo rolls. Times: Mornings or afternoons, may depend on the tide. Pre-requisites: Intermediate (BCU 3 star) skills, Eskimo roll at higher tides (over 18.5 feet).

Cost: $75 for members of the public; $35/$25 for club members. Sales tax included.
Register: Alaska Kayak School, (235-2090), info@alaskakayakschool.com (online form)

Courses and Events - Seward Splash
Seward Pool
February to April 2006

Introductory Kayaking Skills
Saturday 25 February
Saturday March 11, 1 April and 29 April, 10 AM - 2 PM
Introductory courses are for novices, beginners and more experienced paddlers that have never had formal instruction, and cover materials included in the British Canoe Union's closed cockpit kayak 1 and 2 star awards, and the basic flat water skills for an American Canoe Association's Introduction to Kayaking course. Introductory courses emphasize understanding the relationships between your actions and the reactions of the kayak rather than strict performance of strokes and maneuvers (see intermediate skills). Includes a short primer on hypothermia prevention and clothing. Most skills included in British Canoe Union's 1 and 2 star closed cockpit kayak syllabus (www.bcuna.com).
Where: Seward High School Pool
Days/Dates/Times:Saturday/February 25, 8-11 AM,
Saturdays March 11, 1 April and 29 April, 10 AM - 2 PM
Cost: $63.60 w/ tax/person/session (discounts for alums)
Pre-requisites: must be able to swim
Registration: Alaska Kayak School, (907)235-2090, or email info@alaskakayakschool.com, or use (online form); OR Contact Alan and Alison Heavirland (Seward) 224-4440.
Topics for Introductory course include:
Importance of warm-up & stretching
Safe carrying and launching
Equipment sizing
Fit to a boat
Parts of a boat and paddle
Use of the paddle
Safe body positions
Posture
Safe capsize and wet exit
Use of a spray skirt
Balance
Group awareness
Forward and back paddling under control
Stopping
Turning, and Moving sideways
Ruddering
Use of the lower body for balance and control
Use of the upper body for power
Simple rescues (with assistance)
Beginnings of edging, sculling and Eskimo rescues
Introduction to Eskimo rolling

Intermediate Kayaking Skills w/ Eskimo rolling
Saturday 25 February,
11:30-3:30 PM
Saturdays 11 March, April 1 and 29, 2:30-6:30 PM
Intermediate skills courses are for paddlers that have developed their introductory skills (see above) and wish to achieve total control of the kayak. Emphasis is on technical performance of strokes and maneuvers. If you haven't taken the introductory course, you should consider it. The intermediate courses build on sound introductory skills, and "jumping ahead" will probably not help you develop efficient skills more quickly.
Intermediate Skills are the required flat water kayaking skills for paddlers wishing to guide, teach paddling, or become proficient kayakers. This is a large body of skills and knowledge, often taught during 2-3 days outdoors; it might take more than one intermediate pool course for you to master this fantastic set of skills. Great fun! This course includes materials in the British Canoe Union's closed cockpit kayak 2 and 3 Star award, the intermediate skills (www.bcuna.com). For $10 there is an optional Eskimo roliing session OR optional student practice session after the 3 hour skills session.
Where: Seward High School Pool
Days/Dates/Times: Saturday/February 25, 11:30 AM - 3:30 PM;
Saturdays March 11, 1 April, and 29 April, 2:30-6:30 PM
Cost: $63.60/person/session*; $5 discount for returning students
Pre-requisites: introductory skills or permission. * For an additional $10 (w/tax) there is an optional 1 hr. Eskimo rolling workshop OR student practice the last hour of the course (230-330 PM on Feb 12th, and 530-630 PM on March 11, April 1 and 29.) Returning students on the Feb 12th will get a FREE rolling and practice session. From 230-330 PM.
Registration: Alaska Kayak School, phone 235-2090, email info@alaskakayakschool.com, online form at Alaska Kayak School online calendar, OR call Alan and Alison Heavirland, 224-4440.
Topics for Intermediate Skills Course include:
Efficient strokes and maneuvers
Efficient Forward, back, and draw
Stopping
Bow and stern rudders
Committed recovery and bracing strokes - high and low
Sculling draw and sculling for support
Combination strokes
Functional Eskimo rescues
Deep water assisted rescues
Confident edging
Confident wet exits
Hanging draw/side-slip
Draw on the move
Low brace on the move
Towing and use of a towline
Eskimo Rolling
YAWHOO (Your Angle Widens Hold On) and much more.

Parent-child Pool Kayaking
Sundays March 12, from 11 AM to 1 PM. Learn fundamental kayaking and safety skills with your child in a two-hour introductory course. Ages appropriate include 11 yr. olds and older with reasonable swimming skills. Perfect course for water-loving youngsters. The key skills in this fun event are the safe capsize and a simple rescue with a few boat handling skills thrown in. This is a chance to practice and develop safety skills in the familiar comfort of a warm pool. Contact us if you have questions.
Where: Seward High School Pool
Days/Dates/Times:
Sunday/March 12 and April 2
Times: 11 AM - 1 PM
Cost: $45 w/tax per parent-child team per 2 hr. sessions, additional children $22.50 w/ tax.
Pre-requisites: must be able to swim
Registration: Alaska Kayak School, phone 235-2090, email info@alaskakayakschool.com, online form at Alaska Kayak School online calendar, OR call Alan and Alison Heavirland, 224-4440.

Youth Kayaking in the Pool
Sunday. March 12, from 1:30-3:30 PM
Junior High and high school students will be introduced to fundamental kayaking skills - fun, safety, balance, strokes and maneuver in the pool. Games, races and drills will emphasize safety and fun. Goals of the course are to develop safety awareness and safe practice at introductory level.
Where: Seward High School Pool
Days: Sundays
Dates: 12 March and 2 April
Times: 1:30-3:30 PM
Cost: $22.50 w/ tax/youth/session
Pre-requisites: must be able to swim
Registration: Alaska Kayak School, phone 235-2090, email info@alaskakayakschool.com, online form at Alaska Kayak School online calendar, OR call Alan and Alison Heavirland, 224-4440.

Sea Kayak Safety and Rescue
Sunday, April 30
Kayak control, balance, assisted rescues, towing, throw bags, and self-rescues. Great course for sea paddlers. Build strong rescue skills and confidence, solo and assisted rescues covered in depth. All practiced in the comfort and familiarity of a warm pool. We can teach approximately 30 different solo and assisted rescue techniques. Do you have the time to practice some of these rescues in the pool before you have to use them in the chilly North Pacific Ocean? See ya at the pool on April 30th.
When: Sunday
Dates: April 30
Times: 11 AM - 3:30 PM
Where: Seward High School Pool
Pre-requisite: introductory and intermediate kayaking skills
Cost: $65 w/ tax (discounts for previous students and alums).
Registration: Alaska Kayak School, phone 235-2090, email info@alaskakayakschool.com, online form at Alaska Kayak School online calendar, OR call Alan and Alison Heavirland, 224-4440.

May

BCU Assessments:
BCU 2 star kayak assessment. Do you have the skills to make he kayak go where you want on flat water, do a simple rescue with assistance, prevent a capsize, cut a couple of turns (see www.bcuna.com for 1-2 star closed cockpit kayak syllabus). This test is a test of the fundamental skills in kayaking, in which you show that you understand the relationship between your actions and the reactions of the kayak.
Day: Monday
Date: 1 May
Time: 5-8 PM
Location: to be announced
Pre-requisites: appropriate training
Fees: Free to kayak school club members, $10 for BCU certificate
$45 for members of the public.
Register: Alaska Kayak School, 235-2090, info@alaskakayakschool.com, (online form)

BCU 3 star kayak assessment. Do you know the technical strokes and maneuvers that make up the fabric of honed kayaking? These are the skills, that when blended into a fluid performance, make you a technical paddler. Bow rudder, sculling draw, committed bracing, even rolling in flatwater, crisp draw to the hip, draw on the move, hanging draw, and much more including efficient rescues and towing. Check www.bcuna.com for a 3 star closed-cockpit kayak syllabus.
DaysDates: Tuesday 2 May; Wednesday 10 May; Monday 15 May;
Time: 5-8 PM
Location: Bridge Creek Reservoir
Pre-requisites: appropriate training, or 2 star assessment
Fees: Free to kayak school club members, $10 for BCU certificate
$105 for members of the public.
Register: Alaska Kayak School, 235-2090, info@alaskakayakschool.com, (online form)

BCU Canoe Safety Test. Learn and practice a while series of water safety drills, habits and rescues. This is a 1-day self-contained water safety and rescue training and assessment course. Course contact focuses on theory and practice of lifesaving and water rescue techniques. Required course for coaches, this is a fantastic program for anyone to work or recreate on or near the water. After a long wet day of training you get to solve your own rescue scenario at the end of the day.
Day: Monday
Date: 15 May
Time: 830 am - 430 pm
Location: Brisge Creek Reservoir, Homer
Pre-requisites: appropriate training, and clothing
Fees: 105 to kayak school club members, $20 for BCU certificate
$135 for members of the public, $20 for BCU certificate
Register: Alaska Kayak School, 235-2090, info@alaskakayakschool.com, (online form)

BCU 4 star Sea Kayak Assessment. Do you have the skills to be a reliable member of a group in up to moderate conditions? Then you should consider taking the British Canoe Union 4 star sea kayak test. Can you paddle in wind and waves up to Force 4, (what is Force 4?) is your kayak and equipment (including clothing) suitable for safe open water paddling? Can you launch and land through surf? Can you orient to a chart and develop a route and identify escape routes? Can you rescue yourself and others in open water? For a complete list of the skills you'll be tested on, see www.bcuna.com for a 4 star sea kayak syllabus. Feel free to contact us for more information.
Date: 16 May
Day: Tuesday
Time: 9-4 PM
Location: Kachemak Bay
Pre-requisites: appropriate training, or 3 star closed cockpit kayak assessment, if you're not sure, just ask.
Fees: Free to kayak school club members, $20 for BCU certificate
$135 for members of the public, $20 for BCU certificate.
Register: Alaska Kayak School, 235-2090, info@alaskakayakschool.com, (online form)

American Canoe Association Coastal Kayak Instructor Development Workshops (IDW) and Certification Exam (ICE), Homer, May 3-5 and May 7-9, respectively.

Steve Scherrer, ACA Coastal Kayak Instructor Trainer Educator, and Tom Pogson ACA Coastal Kayak Instructor Trainer Candidate, & BCU level 4 sea coach.

What do these programs consists of? Learn to teach and share your passion for Coastal Kayaking and get a professional certification from the American Canoe Association, the governing body of paddle sport in the United States. This comprehensive 3-day will provide training in:

Identifying and delivering safe instructional sessions for students with different learning styles,
How to properly perform, model and teach: fun, safety, strokes, maneuvers, and seamanship. Lots of video analysis.
Deliver short and informative "lectures" on topics that are appropriate to the level of certification.

This training will help you to prepare for the ACA's Coastal Kayak Certification Exam, which is given over 3-days after the IDW (7-9 May in Homer this year). Certifications offered in the exam include: Coastal Kayak Basic, Coastal Kayak Open Coast, Coastal Kayak Advanced (if conditions allow), each corresponding to teaching and leading in increasingly demanding sea conditions.

This is the start of your paddling instructor education, and it will open your eyes to many subtle aspects of teaching and guiding. This is a "must-do" for anyone considering guiding or leading paddlers on the sea.

American Canoe Association Coastal Kayak Instructor Development Workshop (IDW ) - training: Homer, Alaska, May 3-5, 2006.
Contact us for Certification Requirements, or visit the ACA website www.acanet.org.
When: Wednesday, Thursday, Friday
Dates: 3-5 May, 2006
Times: 9 AM - 7 PM
Where: Homer
Cost: $295 ($395 if we provide the gear)
Pre-requisites: previous paddling experience and kayaking skills.
Register: Alaska Kayak School 235-2090, (online form)
Accommodations - Course Lodging Special: Ocean Shores Motel in Homer (235-7775) will offer us a lodging special at winter rates, $59/rooms that sleep 2. OSM is centrally located (over looking the water) and easy access to all downtown services and the beach. But this weekend is the Kachemak Shorebird Festival, so you must reserve your rooms ASAP to get this awesome deal on lodging.

American Canoe Association Coastal Kayak Instructor Certification Exam (ICE) - exam: Homer, Alaska, May 7-8, 2006. Put your instructor training to the test. Test your personal and modeling skills, teaching ability, leadership and gear. This test will provide certification testing for American Canoe Association Instructors at the basic, intermediate, and open water levels. Held in Homer because of the diversity of sea conditions. Contact us for Certification Requirements, or visit the ACA website, www.acanet.org.
When: Sunday, Monday, Tuesday
Dates: 7-9 May 2006
Times: 9 AM - 7 PM
Where: Homer
Cost: $295 ($395 if we provide the gear)
Pre-requisites: Coastal Kayak Instructor Development Workshop.
Register: Alaska Kayak School 235-2090,(online form)
Accommodations: Ocean Shores Motel in Homer (235-7775) will offer us a lodging special at winter rates, $59/rooms that sleep 2. OSM is centrally located (over looking the water) and easy access to all downtown services and the beach. But this weekend is the Kachemak Shorebird Festival, so you must reserve your rooms ASAP to get this awesome deal on lodging.

Steve Scherrer has spent more than 20 years teaching paddling and coaching paddlers and instructors. Steve's ACA instructor training courses have defined ACA coastal kayak instruction in the Northwest. Steve is also the designer of the popular sea kayak Tempest series by Wilderness Systems, and he's is an old hand teaching on rivers, the sea and in surf, and he's honed kayak control and teaching it to a fine art. We are lucky to have someone of Steve's caliber coming to work with us.

Tom Pogson, owner and founder of the Alaska Kayak School is a 23-year Alaska resident that has traveled and paddled in many of Alaska's stunning natural reagions. Tom is a level 4 British Canoe Union sea kayak coach, and ACA Coastal kayak and whitewater kayak instructor, and an avid kayak surfer, sea kayaker and river paddler. He has been teaching paddling and guiding since 1995. Homer is a fantastic venue for this set of ACA instructor courses, we have current, wind waves and if we're lucky, some good surf.

British Kayak Weekend, 2-3 star kayak, 4 star sea kayak training, May 12-14. You've heard of the British Canoe Union kayaking skills training? But you have never had a chance to take any courses from BCU coaches? Well this is your chance. Come to Homer and develop technical sea kayaking skills with precise and useful rescues in a day of 2 and 3 star training on flat water with rescues (Friday). Follow the flat water warm-up with 2 days exploring of Kachemak Bay under your own power (Saturday and Sunday). Develop your open water paddling skills, including navigation and trip planning, group awareness, paddling in wind, waves, current, and hopefully some surf. Space is limited. Ask about lodging special at Ocean Shores motel (235-7775), say you saw it here.

Friday 12 May. Flatwater Training, BCU 2 and 3 star closed cockpit flat water kayaking skills and rescues. Preparation for spending two days paddling in the bay, $135/person/
Saturday 13 May. Introduction to Open Water Sea Paddling Skills, day 1 of BCU 4 star sea kayak skills training. The goal: to teach you the skills needed to become a useful member of a sea kayaking group in up to moderate conditions: clotihing and equipment, planning and timing, group awareness, paddling in wind and waves, rescues, towing and surf skills.
Sunday 14 May. Day 2 of Introduction to Open water paddling, open water crossings and deep-water skills.
Dates: May 12, 13, 14
Days: Friday, Saturday, Sunday
Times: 9 am - 5 pm
Locations: Friday - Bridge Creek Reservoir, Saturday and Sunday - Kachemak Bay
Pre-requisites: previous kayaking instruction.
Fees: $135/day, $250/2 days; $295/3days. Alaska Kayak School club members eligible for discounts.
Register: Alaska Kayak School, 235-2090, info@alaskakayakschool.com, (online form)

Alaska Kayak School Sea Skills Jamboree and Rescue Rodeo
May 25-30, held in conjunction with Kachemak Kayak Fest, 26-29 May. Practice wet exits and rescues in the pool. Learn fundamental kayaking skills and develop technical control of a sea kayak in flat water. Learn and practice sea kayak navigation and open water kayaking skills. Above all, learn to paddle a sea kayak in fast current (you get to check out our local secret play spot). Develop rolling and bracing skills in the pool, and check out the Alaska Kayak School's video contributions to nationally acclaimed "Kayak Journal" (visit lvmtv.com). Oh yeah, you won't want to miss the Sea Kayak Rescue Rodeo. Details available soon. Call or email for more information. All courses deeply discounted on this weekend. For more information on the fest, visit www.kachemakkayakfest.com or call the Homer Chamber of Commerce, (907) 235-7740.

1. Introduction to Sea Kayaking, 1-5 PM. The basics in a short course: clothing and hypothermia, fitting to a kayak, posture, carrying and transporting, launching and landing safely, wet exits and use of a spray skirt, use of paddle, balance, forward, stop back, spin the kayak, turn, move it sideways, do a rescue, and rescue yourself. Very fast course, a solid sampler. All equipment provided, including drysuits. Space is limited.
Days, Dates, Times & Locations:
Thursday, 25 May, Homer Spit Marine Terminal 1 - 5 PM, meet at 12 PM
Pre-requisites: must be able to swim and willing to capsize
Cost: $69 w/ tax
Register: Alaska Kayak School, 235-2090, info@alaskakayakschool.com, (online form)

2. Open Water and Moving Water Skills, 1-5 PM. Review of wet exits and review of rescues as a warm-up, paddling in wind and waves, moving in and out of surf (if conditions allow), and paddling in current at our secret play spot (off the spit, but very close to town).
Days, Dates, Times & Locations:
Thursday, 25 May, 1 - 5 PM, meet at 12 PM @ Homer Spit Marine Terminal,
Pre-requisites: Intermediate skills, a willingness to capsize in open water and current, or be ale to Eskimo roll. Space is limited.
Cost: $69 w/ tax
Register: Alaska Kayak School, 235-2090, info@alaskakayakschool.com, (online form)

3. Tsunami Spit! Tour - No Experience Required. Come on a short tour of the HomerSpit starting from the Homer Spit Marine Terminal, and learn some core kayaking skills: appropriate clothing and hypothermia avoidance, safe capsize and rescue, and paddling in a group. Develop safe habits and learn about key gear items and safety features of the kayak: pump, extra clothing, food and water, first aid kit, dry bags, map and compass, paddle float, etc. This is not a comprehensive course, it¹s the bare bones of safety and a short trip. If you're lucky you'll get to paddle one of the new wonders of kayaking, the Tsunami kayaks. Enjoy. All equipment provided including dry suits. Space is limited.
Days, Dates, Times & Locations:
Thursday-Sunday
25 May
Times: 10 - 2 PM, Homer Spit Marine Terminal
Pre-requisites: willingness to capsize and practice a wet exit
Cost: $69 w/ tax
Register: Alaska Kayak School, 235-2090, info@alaskakayakschool.com, (online form)

4. Eskimo Rolling. Develop an understanding of the balance system in the kayak and your Eskimo roll. This course best for intermediate level paddlers ready to take the next step into paddling in current and surf and need to be able to Eskimo roll as a self rescue. It¹s a desirable skill in any kayak, especially if you paddle in cold water. All drills in the Homer pool. Space is limited.
Days, Dates, Times & Locations:
2 classes, Thursday and Tuesday
25 and 30 May
Times: 8-10 PM, meet at 745 PM
Where: Homer pool
Pre-requisites: intermediate skills
Cost: $35/person/class; $69 w/ tax / person / both classes
Register: Alaska Kayak School, 235-2090, info@alaskakayakschool.com, (online form)

5. Introduction to Sea Kayaking, 9 AM - 5 PM. The fundamentals in one day: clothing and hypothermia, fitting to a kayak, posture, carrying and transporting. Launching and landing safely, essential gear, wet exits and use of a spray skirt, use of a paddle, balance system, forward paddling, stopping, back-paddling, spin a sea kayak in place, turn and move it sideways, bracing and support, do a rescue, and rescue yourself. A fast course, a good sampler for the basics of flat-water paddling. All equipment provided, including dry suits. Space is limited.
Days, Dates, Times & Locations:
Friday and Saturday
26 and 27 May
Where: Homer Spit Marine Terminal
Times: 9 AM - 5 PM
Pre-requisites: must be able to swim and willing to capsize
Cost: $115 w/ sales tax included
Register: Alaska Kayak School, 235-2090, info@alaskakayakschool.com, (online form)

6. Open Water and Moving Water Skills, 9 AM -5 PM. Review of wet exits and review of rescues as a warm-up (you will get to practice both). Efficient paddling in wind and waves, moving in and out of surf (if conditions allow), and paddling in current at our secret play spot (off the spit, but very close to town). Essential equipment, simple navigation, Must be dressed warmly, we will be practicing open water rescues, and we'll be on the water all day, break for lunch.
Days, Dates, Times & Locations:
Friday and Saturday
26 and 27 May
Where: meet @ Homer Spit Marine Terminal
Times: 9 AM - 5 PM
Pre-requisites: intermediate skills, confident wet exit
Cost: $115 w/ sales tax included
Register: Alaska Kayak School, 235-2090, info@alaskakayakschool.com, (online form)

7. Rough Water Rescues - practiced in calm water. Enjoy an entire day of theory and practice of life saving and rescue for sea kayakers. Safety features of clothing and kayaks, assisted rescues: t, t-x, yank and pump, Eskimo rescue, Cleopatra's Needle, trapped paddler rescue, towing, and self rescues: swim kayak to shore, paddle float rescue, cowboy scramble, re-enter and roll with paddle float, all-in rescue, and more. It¹s a wet day, but radical fun. All practiced in calm water. If you're new to kayaking or are a rugged guide, this is a fantastic rescues course. "Practice difficult things in easy conditions to develop efficient skills". All equipment provided, including dry suits.
Days, Dates, Times & Locations:
Sunday
28 May
Times: 9 AM - 5 PM
Where: meet @ Homer Spit Marine Terminal
Pre-requisites: intermediate skills, confident wet exit
Cost: $115 w/ sales tax included
Register: Alaska Kayak School, 235-2090, info@alaskakayakschool.com, (online form)

8. Deep Water Rescues - practiced in deep water. Enjoy an entire day of safety and rescue for open water paddlers, practiced while paddling offshore. We'll do some simple capsize drills and t-rescues in protected water as a warm up, but then we'll head offshore to give you a chance to practice the gamut of rescues in deep water. Assisted rescues: t, t-x, yank and pump, Eskimo rescue, Cleopatra's Needle, trapped-paddler rescue, towing (w/ and w/o ropes), and self-rescues: paddle float rescue, cowboy scramble, re-enter and roll with paddle float, all-in rescue, and more. If you can roll, we'll spot you while you try your roll in deep water. It¹s a wet and very fun day. Dress warmly. All equipment provided, including dry suits.
Days, Dates, Times & Locations:
Sunday
28 May
Times: 9 AM - 5 PM
Where: meet @ Homer Spit Marine Terminal
Pre-requisites: Open water skills
Cost: $115 w/ sales tax included, paddling in wind and waves.
Register: Alaska Kayak School, 235-2090, info@alaskakayakschool.com, (online form)

9. Homer Spit! Lightly Tour - Beginners. This is a chance for those of you that have recently taken a class to take your skills on the road in this easy tour of the sights and landmarks of the Homer Spit. Sea Otters and marine birds are always common. Light coaching by your guide will help you hone your recently acquired skills.
Monday, Tuesday
29, 30 May
Times: 10 AM - 3 PM
Where: meet @ Homer Spit Marine Terminal
Pre-requisites: Introductory skills
Cost: $69 w/ sales tax included
Register: Alaska Kayak School, 235-2090, info@alaskakayakschool.com, (online form)

10. Homer Spit! Harder Tour - Intermediate. You've developed your intermediate skills a little in recent classes and want to use them in conditions on a short guided tour with light skills coaching. Apply your efficient forward paddling to explore the Spit and your maneuvering skills to weave in and out of some dock pilings, and some bouys, in the slalom dance you could use in a rock garden. Learn how to paddle in a group, practice a little towing, or just enjoy the journey. All equipment provided.
Monday, Tuesday
29, 30 May
Times: 10 AM - 3 PM
Where: meet @ Homer Spit Marine Terminal
Pre-requisites: Intermediate Skills
Cost: $69 w/ sales tax included
Register: Alaska Kayak School, 235-2090, info@alaskakayakschool.com, (online form)

11. Homer Spit! Hardest Tour - Advanced. Paddle across Kachemak Bay and view the riot of sea birds at Gull Island and have lunch in China Poot Bay. Paddle back in time to get cleaned up for Memorial Day dinner. This plan may be aborted if there is surf on the spit. If there is surf on the Spit, we'll be doing a tour of the surf breaks on the spit in our sea kayaks, and practicing our surf skills. Pretty fun!!
Monday, Tuesday
29, 30 May
Times: 9 AM - 5 PM
Where: meet @ Homer Spit Marine Terminal
Pre-requisites: Intermediate Skills
Cost: $115 w/ sales tax included
Register: Alaska Kayak School, 235-2090, info@alaskakayakschool.com, (online form)

___________________________________________________________________
Seward

Gear Swap, Friday, 19 May, New and used kayaks and accessories and outdoor gear of all kinds. We'll be there with a lots of coool gear and boats, paddles, skirts and clothing, BUT, IF YOU WANT TO SELL SOME GEAR? Or look for a used boat or a new paddle, maybe a paddle jacket or spray skirt? Call Alan or Alison (907) 224-4440.
Where: Lowell Point
When: Friday evening
Times: 3-8 PM
To find out more? Call Alan or Alison (907) 224-4440

Kayak Demos, Friday, May 19. Register to demo kayaks of your choice with the help and supervision of sea kayak coaches and instructors. Learn modern safety features of sea kayaks and try a kayak that's right for you. We'll help you pick them out. This is a mini-course in sea kayak design anf function followed by a chance to try some boats. Registration required, space is limited.
Where: Lowell Point
When: Friday evening
Times: 5-8 PM
To find out more: email or call the Alaska Kayak School, 235-2090, info@alaskakayakschool.com, (online form)

Cost: $25 w/ tax

Beginner Sea Kayaking Skills (flatwater), Saturday, May 20
BCU 1 and 2 star skills. Learn and practice fundamental sea kayaking skills such as dressing for immersion, fitting to a sea kayak, safety features of a sea kayak, safety gear, paddling forward, back and stopping. What is essential personal equipment? Moving the kayak sideways, spinning the kayak, turning and balance, assisted and self-rescues are all covered. Group awareness and support, and introductory trip-planning and leadership. Introduction to Coastal Kayaking and British Canoe Union 1 and 2 star skills in sea kayaks. This course is a solid foundation in sea kayaking on flatwater, lakes and slow moving rivers. All equipment included. Space is limited. This course can is a pre-requisite to Novice-Beginner Open Water skills offered on 20 May 06, see below.
When: Saturday
Dates: 20 May
Where: Seward, specific location to be announced
Times: 830 am - 430 pm
Pre-requisites: previous introductory kayaking course(s), especially Alaska Kayak School pool courses.
Cost: $125 + tax ($225 + tax) for both days
Register: AlaskaKayakSchool.com online calendar, call 235-2090, OR call Alan and Alison Heavirland 224-4440 (online form).

Intermediate Sea Kayaking Skills (flatwater) , Saturday, May 20, BCU 3 star. Technical performance of strokes and maneuvers in sea kayaks: efficient forward and back paddling as well as stopping, low brace turn and bow rudder turn, stern rudder both sides, draw and sculling draw, low and high recoveries. Includes dynamic maneuvers like hanging draw, draw and recoveries on the move (high and low on both sides of the boat). Confident assisted and solo rescues, including Eskimo rescues in open water, as well as the details of towing and throw bags. Personal equipment review. This course is the meat of modern sea kayaking on flat water. Dressing for immersion and light survival kit (snacks, small first aid, extra clothing, thermos, and simple shelter) important in the context of Alaska "day trips". Simple trip planning and emergency awareness. Prerequisite for Advanced Open Water Skills offered on 21 May 2006. All equipment included. Space is limited.
When: Saturday
Dates: 20 May
Where Seward, specific location to be announced
Times: 830 am - 430 pm
Pre-requisites: previous introductory kayaking course(s), especially Alaska Kayak School pool courses, AND substantial previous sea kayak experience, or please ask. This is a fun, but intense course, can be kinda wet too.
Cost: $125 + tax ($225 + tax for both days)
Register: AlaskaKayakSchool.com online calendar, call 235-2090, OR call Alan and Alison Heavirland 224-4440, (online form).

Intermediate Sea Kayaking Skills (flatwater), Sunday, May 21, BCU 3 star skills, Seward. Learn technical strokes and maneuvers for sea kayaks in a day of open water paddling in a group. Efficient forward and back paddling, stopping, moving the kayak sideways, spinning the kayak, turning, paddling as a group, and lots of rescues. Balance and bracing, basics of towing and simple leadership and navigation, simple trip planning. All equipment included. Space is limited. ** This course will be run in Resurrection Bay weather permitting. We reserve the right to change the venue if conditions are gnarly in Resurrection Bay. It is our decision for your safety and fun.
When: Sunday
Dates: 21 May
Where: Seward, specific location to be announced
Times: 830 am - 430 pm
Pre-requisites: Previous comprehensive flatwater sea kayak training
Cost: $125 + tax (take both days for $225 + tax)
Register: AlaskaKayakSchool.com online calendar, call 235-2090, OR call Alan and Alison Heavirland 224-4440 (online form).

Advanced Open Water Sea Skills. BCU 4 star, Resurrection Bay, Seward.
This is an open-water sea kayaking course in which you apply the BCU 3 star (intermediate) sea kayaking skills to paddling in wind and waves (4 star conditions). We will go on a day-trip in Resurrection Bay and practice efficient paddling forward, back and stopping in waves, doing 3 star maneuvers in wind and waves, rescues in wind and waves, and much more such as towing in open water, and group behavior during rescues. Simple navigation, lots of group awareness (paddling in formations), learning how to control sea kayaks in wind and waves, and if we’re lucky, a chance to use wind and waves to aid our travel. Learn how to use the weather forecast to plan your trip and more. This will be an energetic, wet and extremely fun day. Surf landings if we're lucky. All equipment provided. Designed to follow Intermediate-Advanced Flatwater Skills Course offered on 5/20/06.
When: Sunday
Dates: 21 May
Where: Resurrection Bay, meet at Lowell Point
Times: 830 am - 430 pm
Pre-requisites: Previous intermediate sea kayak skills training, BCU 3 star
Cost: $125 + tax (take both days for $225 + tax)
Register: AlaskaKayakSchool.com online calendar, call 235-2090, OR call Alan and Alison Heavirland 224-4440, (online form).

June

Paddling Alaska: Kenai Fjords National Park

3-11 June 2006, $1795/person, tax included
Skill level: intermediate/advanced
BCU 3-4 star, or ACA Open Water Sea Kayaking skills

Paddle the crown jewel of Kenai Fiords National Park, Northwestern Lagoon
Combine tidewater glaciers, whales, puffins, otters, sea lions, and more with incredible vistas, even more marine life, and coastal mountains, and you get a kayak trip of a lifetime. Where else can you paddle up to a 5,000' icefall with an Orca looking over your shoulder? This is an exploration of Northwestern Fiord and adjacent Harris Bay in the heart of Kenai Fiords National Park, Kenai Peninsula, Alaska. This is the "best of the best" of tidewater glaciers and wildlife. In early June wildlife will be abundant. We have a fleet of NDK Explorers and Romanys, WS Tempest 170, Valley Aquanaut, Kajaksport Viviane, and Necky Tesla should fit just about any person’s size and paddling style. We have Lendal and Lightning sea paddles. If you come with us, we’ll be exploring Northwestern Lagoon and Harris Bay, focusing on glaciers and the unique sea conditions and wildlife in the area - swell, current, glacial moraines and calving glaciers make this a kayak trip like no other. The trip's price includes lodging the night before and after the backcountry portion of the trip, and 2 breakfasts and 2 dinners in Seward. You will benefit from the chance to hone your open water paddling skills, moving water (paddling in current) and possibly, your surf skills. Numerous spectacular rock gardens festoon the shores of Harris Bay, so some rock-hopping may be in order!! You can hone your skills while you go on a wilderness trip in one of the most unique locations in Alaska. Maximum group size 8. "My favorite trip" T. Pogson.

Saturday: Day 1 (June 3)- Meet at B&B in Seward, Alaska (probably on Lowell Point) at noon for lunch. Introductions and logisitics, gearing up, kayak selection, packing and an early night out; pizza at local favorite hot spot. Get rested for early morning departure on water taxi to NW Lagoon, 45 miles.
Day 2 - (June 4) Early morning departure from B&B, load kayaks and gear on water taxi at 8 AM and depart for NW Lagoon. Fabulous wildlife and scenic tour of sea bird rocks, cliffs and open water on the way: sea birds, marine mammals such as Dall porpoise, Orca and Humpbacked Whales, and Steller Sea Lions. Arrive NW Lagoon, camp orientation, play tarp, tents. Go for short evening paddle? Dinner out - Camp.
Day 3-7: (June 5-9). Explore NW Lagoon and adjacent Harris Bay, hone group paddling , open water and moving water skills. Paddle and camp. Glacier and wildlife watching, photography and light hiking will allow you to marvel at the recession of the ice of the glaciers that once filled in NW Lagoon; 10 miles since 1949. We'll move camp 2-4 times over the week as the weather and conditions dictate.
Day 8: (June 10). We'll be waiting at the NW Lagoon drop-off/pickup beach around noon, packed and ready to board the water taxi for the ride back to Seward. Clean up and final dinner out, stay at B&B in Seward.
Sunday: Day 9: (June 11). Depart from Seward to Anchorage and points beyond after breakfast.

Price includes naturalist guides, permits, boat shuttles, lodging-dbl** prior to and after backcountry trip, all meals during itinerary, high quality kayaks, professional instruction, group gear (kitchen gear, safety equipment) and hearty backcountry food. "This is our favorite trip, we've done it many times and cherish it more and more each year."

Travel Note: Several modes of travel to get from Anchorage to Seward: Seward Bus Lines, Alaska Railroad, Car rentals, and for groups, van service. Google each, if you have any trouble or questions, email info@alaskakayakschool.com or call Tom (907) 235-2090.

Other money matters:
**For those wishing for a single room prior and after the trip, there is a $175 up charge, otherwise we’ll simply find you an appropriate roommate for rooms with two beds. Dry suits, dry bags, and safety gear are available; if you don't have your own, we may be able to provide for you.

For more information contact: Tom Pogson
British Canoe Union L4 Sea Kayak Coach (076073/F)
A1* and Canoe Safety Test Assessor
American Canoe Association Coastal Kayak Instructor (046739)

*Reservations for this trip: $500 deposit secures your reservation and your balance is due 45 days prior to departure (April 18, 2006). Deposits are due as soon as you know you’d like to go and are refundable up until March 1, 2006.

Send check or money order to:
Alaska Kayak School
PO Box 3547, Homer, Alaska 99603.
(online form)

Phone us (907) 235-2090 (or use the online form) to register and for Credit Card payments (visa/mc only). You will receive a trip equipment list, and trip registration form upon registration.

We specialize in individualized service and instruction.

Dates: June 3-11, 2006 Cost: $1795/person from Seward, Alaska * tax included

Circumnavigation of Shuyak Island, Alaska: Expedition
Skill level: Advanced, minimum BCU 4 star standard

June 16-25, 2006
$2495

Travel back in time, paddle some of Alaska's roughest waters
Are you up for a challenge? Start this unforgettable wilderness sea kayak adventure with a chance to orient and acclimate for this far NW environment in the comfort of a B&B in scenic Homer, Alaska. The adventure really cranks up during our 85 mile journey from Homer southwest across the Gulf of Alaska in the MV Sea Witch, which regularly travels to Shuyak Island for scenery, wildlife viewing, and Halibut fishing. Shuyak is the northern most island in the Kodiak Archipelago and going there is like stepping back in time. Open gallery forests of Sitka Spruce and wind-swept tundra knolls are great spots to look for common Sitka Deer and possibly rare Brown Bears. Humpbacks, Sea Otters, myriads of sea birds and the rugged scenery make any paddling here unforgettable. With good weather, it is possible to circumnavigate the island in 4 days. Alternative plans involve using Skiff Passage to access the western and southern parts of the island without having to paddle the outer coast in the notoriously rough Shelikof Strait. Interior western bays on Shuyak provide both protection and access to the outer coast. We may utilize one of three state park cabins (that can be reserved by customers) to give us a dry space and provide diversity for our evening shelter options. All are in stellar condition with propane lights and stove, wood stove for heat, wash rooms, water source…downright cushy.
This truly a premium trip: we use the very best equipment (NDK Explorers, Mountain Hardware tents), excellent leadership (BCU Coach 4 and ACA open water ratings) and the very best food. This promises to be a truly advanced trip where you can count on doing something that very few people have ever done before: individuals OR outfitters.

Skills needed: the closer to solid 4 star the paddlers are, the easier it will be for them (and us!). It may be necessary to paddle in some 5 star conditions (winds and seas over Force 4) at some point to "make" a crux move in some following seas that can chase us into one of several “escape" routes available to us. For those of you who haven’t paddled with us before, be prepared to provide us with documentation of your skill level. This is only fair to the rest of the group. List of trips, instruction taken (or given), and references are always helpful to establish common ground.

Proposed Itinerary - "Clock wise" route
Day1: 6/17 Saturday – Anchorage arrival, transfer to Homer (included), overnight in B&B on a hill above Kachemak Bay, and Homer.
Day 2: 6/18 Sunday – Orientation day in Homer, time to absorb jet-lag, pack gear, choose and fit kayaks and load our boats onto MV Sea Witch, in preparation for morning departure. Evening out in Homer.
Day 3: 6/19 Monday - early departure from Homer Harbor on MV Sea Witch, Delta 43, motor across the Gulf of Alaska to Shuyak Island, arrive Carry Inlet in afternoon. Carry Inlet to vicinity of Point Banks depending on forecast
Day4: 6/20 Tuesday – - Point Banks to vicinity of Andreon Bay
Day 5: 6/21 Wednesday Andreaon Bay to Shuyak Straight, negotiate tidal race (long ebb, short flood) but doable either way if we use the "rest" beach. May also be possible to ferry over to Afognak and make headway in the straight
Day 6: 6/22 Thursday, Shuyak Straight to Wonder Bay/Big Bay (in 2005 we stayed in Neketa Bay Cabin and planned it this way)
Day 7: 6/23 Friday - Wonder/Big Bay to Carry Inlet (**Interior "bad weather" option: its what we did in 2005. Carry kayaks (short distance) over berm between Neketa and Big Bays. Paddle Big Bay to south end of Skiff Passage at north end of Big Bay and an easy return to Carry Inlet.
Day 8: 6/24 Pick up by Sea Witch in Carry Inlet, motor across the Gulf of Alaska travel to Homer, stay at B&B
Day 9: 6/25 Leave Homer by land/air. Final dinner on Homer Spit. Overnight in Anchorage, prior to morning departures for home or explorations on your own.
Please note: We have an equally viable "Counter Clock wise route" that would allow us to see the west coast -a stunning and rugged land and sea scape.

Don’t forget: "Plans are made to be changed"

Reservations are held with a deposit of $500. Balance is due at 45 days prior to departure and is fully refundable up until that date.

CONTACT

Uncommon Adventures, PO Box 254, Beulah, MI 49617, (866) 882-5525 email: info@uncommonadv.com, www.uncommonadv.com
OR
Alaska Kayak School, PO Box 3547, Homer, AK 99603
info@alaskakayakschool.com, (907) 235-2090

July

Prince William Sound Expedition
Skill level: Intermediate-Advanced

July 1-9, 2006
$2195/person

Trip Description

Once again we plan to combine the strengths of Uncommon Adventures with those of the Alaska Kayak School to bring you an unparalleled trip. Prince William Sound is home to some of Alaska’s best Glacier and Whale viewing. Knight Island Passage and nearby Icy and Whale Bays include some of the best Orca and Humpbacked Whale habitat in the sound. Our trip starts with a 62 mile water taxi ride to Squire Island in scenic Knight Island Passage. We’ll spend the next several days paddling and camping while exploring complete wilderness in Knight Passage, Whale and Icy Bays, Nassau Fjord, Chenega and Tiger Glaciers. A day trip through Dangerous Passage will take us back to our pick-up spot at Point Nowell for the water taxi ride back to Whittier on the last day. Here is just a short list of wildlife we are likely to encounter: Orca, Humpbacked, and Minke Whales, Dall Porpoises, Black-tailed Deer, Black Bear, Harbor Seals, Sea and River otters, Bald Eagle, Marbled Murrelets, Hermit Thrush, Glaucous-winged and Herring gulls have all been seen on trips in this area.

Weather: Rainfall in Prince William Sound is among the highest in the region of the Kenai Peninsula, but weather on trips can be mild, sunny and warm. More often than not, drizzle and fog occur during some part of every trip and we plan accordingly. A series of rain tarps and shelters in the camp set up helps cut the edge off any dampness. Hey, without the rain, there wouldn’t be any glaciers to see! . Day temps range from 50's to rare 80's. Night temps 40's and 50's.

Skills needed: To happily camp and paddle in the rain is key. Its often necessary to maneuver the kayaks among ice bits and small bergs, so good kayak control skills are important. It is occasionally necessary to paddle in light to moderate winds and seas 2-3 feet (on a really bad day). Surf landings and paddling in fast current and bigger swells not likely. Some of the longer days will consists of 14-16 miles paddling over the course of the day.

Itinerary
7/1 Saturday - Arrive in Anchorage, travel overland to Whittier where we’ll get acquainted over halibut, shrimp n’chips and spend the night in a local B.
7/2 Sunday – Sort and fit gear in Whittier and board a mid-day shuttle boat to Squire Island.
7/3 Monday – Paddle to Knight Island Passage, camp.
7/4 Tuesday - Paddle across Knight Island Passage via the Pleiades Island group and camp in Whale or Icy Bays. (9 miles)
7/5 Wednesday - Day trip to Nassau Fjord and Chenega Glacier, -14 miles RT).
7/6 Thursday - Day trip to Tiger Glacier and potentially camp in Icy Bay. (16 miles RT).
7/7 Friday - Paddle to Point Nowell, our pick up spot, (16 miles) and camp there.
7/8 Saturday - Water Taxi pick up, trip to Whittier and a “disorientation dinner” in out of the elements. Travel back to Anchorage to overnight at hotel for next day fly-outs or extensions.
7/9: Sunday—Catch flight out from Anchorage to wherever you may be going.

Reservations are held with a deposit of $500. Balance is due at 45 days prior to departure and is fully refundable up until that date.

CONTACT

Michael Gray, Uncommon Adventures, sP.O. Box 254, Beulah, MI 49617

(866) 882-5525 email: info@uncommonadv.com
www.uncommonadv.com
toll free 1-866-882-5525

OR
Alaska Katak School, P.O. Box 3547, Homer, AK 99603
(907) 235-2090 email:info@alaskakayakschool.com

Shuyak and Afognak Islands 5 star Expedition, 2006, 13-25 July 2006

Exposure, remoteness, current, tidal races, wildlife and stunning scenery punctuate this upper level trip for BCU paddlers that have had 5 star training and or assessment, or advanced open water ACA paddlers. Great trip for BCU 5 star sea trainees looking to gain experience before assessment.

If you know the Alaska Kayak School, or know any of the North American BCU coaches or advanced open water ACA instructors and are comfortable paddling in advanced conditions in remote scenic wilderness areas, you might consider coming along on this exploratory sea journey.

If you don't have experience paddling in rough water on multi day trips or don't have a reliable Eskimo roll, consider one of our other training trips instead, such as Kenai Fiords 19-27 August, 2006, or the Kachemak Bay Sea School, 29 July - 2 August and 1-5 September.

Call for expedition details.
Please be prepared to provide references from your trainers and/or assessors and a summary of your paddling/training log.

Tom Pogson
Alaska Kayak School
(907) 235-2090

Kachemak Bay 5-day Sea School

29 July to 2 August 2006

Trip Description

Training to plan trips and paddle safely in Kachemak Bay

Develop the skills needed to paddle safely in Kachemak Bay: weather forecasts, tides and currents, navigation, flat and open water skills, trip planning, boat packing, safety and group awareness, rescues and cold water paddling, risk assessment, camp site selection, low impact camping, sea kayak design and function, and more. Pre-requisites: introductory kayaking course or fundamental skills.

We will use flat water and open water training sessions to enhance navigation and equipment lectures. You will develop a trip plan for an overnight trip. We will actually do the trip, paddling across the bay and back on days 4 and 5.

All instruction, kayaking gear, and group camp gear provided. You provide clothing, your own camping gear, lodging-camping in Homer, and all your food. Food organized in food groups or as a whole group activity (we can decide).

Proposed Itinerary

Day 1 - 29 July, Saturday
Morning: Introduction - over view

2006 Calendar of Events, Trips and Courses

Jan-Apr | May | June | July | Aug | Sept | Oct - Dec
(see 2005 courses)

Jan - Apr

May

June

July

August

September

Oct - Dec

January - April

Course Descriptions

May

___________________________________________________________________
Seward

June

Paddling Alaska: Kenai Fjords National Park

Circumnavigation of Shuyak Island, Alaska: Expedition
Skill level: Advanced, minimum BCU 4 star standard

June 16-25, 2006
$2495

July

2006 Calendar of Events, Trips and Courses

Jan-Apr | May | June | July | Aug | Sept | Oct - Dec (see 2005 courses)

Jan - Apr

May

June

July

August

September

Oct - Dec

January - April

Course Descriptions

May

___________________________________________________________________ Seward

June

Paddling Alaska: Kenai Fjords National Park

Circumnavigation of Shuyak Island, Alaska: Expedition Skill level: Advanced, minimum BCU 4 star standard

June 16-25, 2006 $2495

July

Jan-Apr | May | June | July | Aug | Sept | Oct - Dec
(see 2005 courses)

___________________________________________________________________
Seward

Circumnavigation of Shuyak Island, Alaska: Expedition
Skill level: Advanced, minimum BCU 4 star standard

June 16-25, 2006
$2495