Group classes and kid’s camps are currently suspended for 2021.
We are scheduling private instruction for individuals and small groups – please call for details.
Our instructional program offers something for everyone. With our Essential Kayaking series, Kayaking for Kids program, Women on the Water clinics, capsize-recovery & rescues classes, and paddling clinics with Nigel Foster, we offer a range of kayak instruction that covers the gamut.
Please call for reservations. You may view our calendar for scheduled dates, though we are often able to oblige special requests.
Essential Kayaking: 4 hours on the river $69
View our Calendar for scheduled dates
An in-depth introduction to basic strokes, boat control, and the fundamental elements of kayaking. This class will help you feel comfortable paddling a kayak, and give you a sound foundation as you continue to develop paddling skills. We highly recommend our rescues clinic as a follow up.
Essential Kayaking II: 4 hours on the river $69
View our Calendar for scheduled dates
This is a great follow up to our Essential Kayaking course. Our focus is on edging, bracing, and refined strokes. These skills will enhance your ability to maneuver efficiently and build a foundation for learning to handle wind, waves, and current.
~”Essential Kayaking” or equivalent experience is a prerequisite
Rescues Clinic: 3 hours on the river $69
View our Calendar for scheduled dates
Learn and practice wet exits, partner rescues and self rescues in the real-life environment of open water. Gain confidence in recovering from a capsize and know that you can help your paddling partner back into his or her boat.
Women on the Water Paddling Clinic
4 hours on the river $69
View our Calendar for scheduled dates
This all-women’s version of our Essential Kayaking class provides an in-depth introduction to basic strokes, boat control, and the fundamental elements of kayaking. This class will help you feel comfortable paddling a kayak, and give you a sound foundation as you continue to develop paddling skills. We highly recommend our rescues clinic as a follow up.
Private Lessons: 3 hours on the river
$150 one person / $65 each additional person
Customized, private individual and group Lessons available per request.
Kayaking for Kids – Summer Camps, ages 9-12
Summer 2020
5 day camps | Cancelled for 2020 | $375
3 day camps | Cancelled for 2020 | $250
Camps run 9:00 am – 3:00 pm each day
Our Kids Camps introduce the basic fundamentals of kayaking and water safety. Kids have fun on the water learning kayaking skills through instruction and team-building activities. We have been running this camp for 23 years and are continually amazed at how quickly our campers learn! This camp focuses on basic kayaking strokes, directional control, safety and rescue techniques and FUN.
Kayaking for Kids 3-Day Camps, ages 12-15
9:00am – 1:00pm each day. This camp runs in conjunction with Portland Community College’s Summer Teen Program. Basic Strokes, directional control, rescue techniques and safety will all be covered. Register through PCC at www.pcc.edu/schedule.
Nigel Foster Clinics
We are pleased to host a number of paddling clinics throughout the year with one of the world’s most innovative instructors. Nigel’s contributions to kayaking are evident in his boat designs, writings, expeditions, instructional DVD series, gear design, slide presentations and his continued eagerness to share all that he has learned. reserve early!
Learn more about Nigel Foster at www.nigelkayaks.com and www.nigelfosterdesigns.com
“Directional Control” and “Forward Stroke Classes” with Nigel Foster & Kristin Nelson
Directional Control 10:00-4:00 $165
Mastering the Forward Stroke 10:00-3:00 $150
These popular clinics will help you take boat control to a new level! Learn to maneuver your kayak with precision and grace while you increase efficiency in your paddling style.
Where: our backyard waters on the Willamette River in Portland.
