ACA Level 4 Open Water Skills

Course Overview: The Open Water Coastal Kayak course is designed to refine and increase coastal kayaking skills for use in open water. Having polished and refined the relevant skills in the Level 3 course(s), we now move to variable conditions for practicing rescues and short open water crossings. Waves up to 2 feet; winds up to 15 knots, current to 3 knots. Navigation and group management may also be covered.

Open Water Skills is a one-day seminar to refine and increase kayaking skills for use in open water. Participants will be introduced to: -- The "J-Lean" and its uses including edge control for maneuvering and correcting course, balance, bracing, and overall boat control. -- Refining the forward stroke and learning the side slip maneuver (static draw). -- Performing assisted and self-rescues in open water. -- Using a compass to hold course, and a chart to fix location. -- Bow angle method of avoiding a collision. -- Basic towing technique. Instruction provided by an ACA Coastal Kayaking Open Water instructor.