Basic Sea Kayaking Course

This annual class is loaded with practical information, hands-on education, an introduction to kayak equipment, and an emphasis on paddling safety. Learn the basic paddling strokes, how to get back in your boat when you go over, basic trip planning & navigation, and how to recognize & avoid dangerous situations. No prior kayaking knowledge or experience is required to participate in the course. If you are already an experienced paddler and would like to join Mountaineers' trips, you might consider getting your equivalency badge. 

Participants should be moderately physically fit. Examples of this would mean the ability to lift 25 lbs over your head, walk briskly for one hour, lift yourself to the side of the pool without using a ladder, and have the flexibility to sit upright with legs on the floor straight in front of you. Successful completion and enjoyment of the course is reliant on this minimal level of fitness. 

The course consists of one classroom session (April 6), one pool session (April 13), and two open water sessions on 4/19-20. To graduate, students must attend one of each of the above listed sessions and complete two club-sponsored student paddles at least 7 nautical miles in length by November 3rd.

When you register for the course you be automatically registered for the classroom and pool sessions.

You will need to select one of two open water sessions:

1. If you already have your own equipment you will join the April 19-20 group at Harry Todd Park in Lakewood.

2. If you need to rent equipment you will join the April 19-20 group at Brownsville Marina. Note that students who need to rent equipment will get priority to attend the Brownsville OTW activity.  

Please plan carefully- these actives are required to graduate and there are no make-up sessions. You will have opportunities to sign up for Tacoma Branch student paddles before they are open to the greater Mountaineers membership. 

Students must also complete the Low Impact Recreation Course (free and online) and a Marine Mammal Protection Quiz that will be shared after registration. 

To register click on the blue "Apply" button to the right of this page and complete the Google form.  When that has been received and reviewed you will be notified that you can sign up for the class. NOTE: YOU ARE NOT OFFICIALLY REGISTERED UNTIL THE REGISTRATION FORM IS RETURNED.

The course is $275 for Mountaineers and $375 for non-members. 

A course manual and course syllabus will be available under the COURSE MATERIALS TAB upon completed registration and payment.