Basic Kayak Skills (Paddle Canada)
Call us at 1 (867) 445-4512 for more information about our paddling courses!
Inquire about a custom course date for groups of 6 or more.
Join us for our foundational “kayaking 101” course that introduces proper technique for the core paddle strokes you’ll need to control your kayak on Yellowknife’s local lakes. This course is the starting point in our kayak skills progression.
The skills and knowledge gained on this 1-day course are designed for novice paddlers who are new to kayaking. This course is a great fit for the causal kayaker looking to learn beginner skills, become a safer paddler, and have more confidence when exploring on day trips.
This course covers the essentials for kayakers of all ages and skills levels to become more competent kayakers on calm lake environments when paddling close to shore.
Our experienced kayak instructors look forward to improving your basic skills like maneuvering and balancing in a kayak, no matter where you are starting from.
If you are seeking a more comprehensive kayak course geared towards more ambitious, multi-day expedition-paddlers our 2-day Level 1 Skills Kayaking Course is a step up to the next level.
The instructors are top notch. All of them are knowledgeable, patient, fun, and supportive. In 2021 my friend and I went on an epic 8-day paddle on the remote North Arm route through wind and waves. Thank you so much Dan and instructors at Jackpine Paddle for giving me the skills and confidence to pursue my goals on the water. 100% would recommend.
All paddling equipment: kayak, lifejacket, paddle, bailer, throw bag included. Participants are welcome to bring their own equipment if they prefer. It is recommended that participants have thermal protection (drysuit or wetsuit) for comfort on this course. Drysuit rentals are available for $45 CAD + GST per participant.
If you are unable to attend and you can send someone in your place, we can transfer your spot free of charge.
Cancellations with more than 30 days notice, 75% refund.
Cancellations with less than 21 days notice, 50% refund.
Cancellations within 14 days of the course cannot be refunded.
Please read carefully: Should your paddling course have to be cancelled, postponed or altered by a force majeure (including but not limited to: weather, poor visibility, or mechanical breakdown causing delayed or cancelled charter flights or helicopter journeys, fire, flood, pandemic, highway closures, community evacuations, ongoing or newly introduced travel ban or government statement), Jackpine Paddle and its partner operators are not obligated to provide a refund or offer alternative travel services.
The minimum age for unaccompanied minors in our courses is 16. Participants under the age of 16 are welcome to register if joined by a parent or guardian. Participants must be able to swim 50 m with a lifejacket but no previous paddling experience is required.