This class establishes the foundation that all paddlers need. In the classroom we discuss paddling safely, local destinations and equipment. On the water, we introduce the basic paddle strokes needed to efficiently move a kayak through the water. We encourage students to practice a deep water wet exit and an assisted re-entry which is a safety skill every paddler should own! A person completing this class is qualified to rent kayaks from Alder Creek Kayak & Canoe. Basic Skills Kayak Classes are offered every weekend year round and daily in the late spring, summer and early fall.

 

 

 

-Introduction to basic equipment

-Launching and landing from a dock

-Introduction to how body, boat and blade work together

-Basic body mechanics and efficiency of stroke

-Forward and reverse paddling

-Sweep strokes

-Draw strokes

-Turning on the move

-Edging while turning

-Wet exits

-Deep water assisted re-entries

 

Things To Bring

- Sunglasses with retention device (i.e. Croakies, Chums, etc)

- Sunscreen, lip balm 

- Sun hat, rain hat, and/or fleece hat

- Synthetic top and bottom (thermal underwear, heavier wt. for cooler weather)

- Nylon shorts and/or swimsuit

- Towel and change of clothes for ride home

 

Inclusions

-Kayaks
-Paddles
-PFD's, Life Jacket
-Wet or Dry suit
-Booties
-Our great instructors!

Exclusions

-We do not provide food or drink

Cancellation Policy

The Pacific Northwest is a dynamic and often unpredictable environment. All activities are run/fun rain or shine. All programs are conditions dependent and may change at any time at our discretion. In order to keep our programs affordable a minimum number of participants may be required. If we are unable to fill a program to a minimum requirement level we reserve the right to cancel the program. A full refund will be provided in the event of a cancelled or re-scheduled activity upon request. Please allow 48 hour notice for any cancellations or changes in your reservation. Just give us a call at 503-285-0464. Cancellations within 48 hours of the program are NOT refundable.

Departs

Basic Skills Kayak Classes meet at our Jantzen Beach Store in Portland, Or.

Pickup/Departure

Meeting Place/Directions:
Basic Skills Kayak Classes meet at our Jantzen Beach Store in Portland.
Please arrive 10 minutes early to fill out paper work.

200 NE Tomahawk Isl Dr. Portland, OR 97217

From the south: Take I-5 exit 308 (Jantzen Beach) get in the right lane and go east on Tomahawk Island Drive .7 miles, we are on the right. As you come off the exit the Safeway is on the right and the Chevron is on your left.

From the North: Take I-5 308 (Jantzen beach, the first one in Oregon)get in the left lane off the exit, turn left at the stoplight, follow the road around the bend to the left as it passes under the freeway and comes around so the Safeway is on your left. At the stop sign turn right on Tomahawk Isl Drive and go .6 miles, we are on the right.

If you have any questions about what to bring please contact us.

Call for more information or if you are lost or late!

Portland: 503.285.0464

Additional Locations