Paddling Classes are held June – August each year. Classes for the 2024 are below. To be among the first to receive our class schedule sign up for our newsletter. For more information or if you are interested in scheduling a personal class, please contact Deana Jerdee at deana@paddleantrim.com
This class teaches paddlers the basics for paddling all types of kayaks in a fun and safe way. You’ll learn about what kayaks work best for what conditions and other paddling best practices. Learn how to make the kayak go where you want it to go and basic safety skills needed on the water. You will have the opportunity to learn what to do when (not if) you end in the water, out of your boat. This class is great for beginners but anyone who has never received formal instruction will benefit.
Class requires participant to bring a kayak, paddle, and a vest-style pfd (life jacket) which will be worn at all times when on the water. If you do not have a kayak, please contact us prior to registration and our instructors may be able to accommodate.
All classes are taught by ACA (American Canoe Association) certified instructors. Maximum student: teacher ratio is 5:1. Ages: 14 and up. Participants must meet the ACA eligibility requirements here.
Kayaking Essentials 2024 Schedule:
This all-day class is for those who have taken our Kayaking Essentials (or another class) and want to continue to work on their skills and learn new skills. We will go over basic stroke techniques including bracing and edging. We will work on rescue techniques including self rescues and t-rescues.
Class requires participant to bring a kayak, paddle, and a vest-style pfd (life jacket) which will be worn at all times when on the water. Because a portion of the day will be spent on rescues, a kayak with bulkheads in the bow and stern is necessary. If you do not have a kayak, please contact us prior to registration and our instructors may be able to accommodate.
All classes are taught by ACA (American Canoe Association) certified instructors. Maximum student: teacher ratio is 5:1. Ages: 14 and up. Participants must meet the ACA eligibility requirements here.
Kayaking Next Steps 2024 Schedule:
Our kids’ class is a great way to introduce your child to the sport of kayaking. Designed with fun and water safety as primary goals, we teach students through a variety of games and exploration. Our experienced, certified instructors teach basic skills with a goal to empower kids to be comfortable while out on the water. Classes are taught in traditional youth sized sea kayaks.
All classes are taught by ACA (American Canoe Association) certified instructors. Maximum student: teacher ratio is 4:1. Ages: 7-13
$30/person for two hours. Need-based, limited partial scholarships are available, please contact us prior to registration for more information.
Kids will always be wearing life jackets while on the water but must be comfortable on the water with a life jacket on. Participants must meet the ACA eligibility requirements. Extra thanks to the West Michigan Coastal Kayaking Association for sharing their youth-sized kayaks with us for these classes (check out their website for a great family friendly kayaking symposium hosted every Memorial Day weekend).
2024 Kids Kayaking Schedule:
The Introduction to Kayaking (Level 1) skills course is an introductory program that will provide you with the skills, knowledge, and abilities to be safe and confident on the water. Topics covered include: personal and group equipment, on and off water safety and etiquette, safe launching and landing, strokes to maneuver your boat forward, backward, stopping, turning, and sideways, bracing to avoid capsize, controlled capsize and wet exit. Please bring a sack lunch and any snacks you will need.
2024 Level 1 Intro to Kayaking Class:
Paddlesports Safety Facilitator (PSF) certification program teaches basic safety and paddling knowledge, as well as simple rescue skills. The training for this certification includes general on water safety and kayaking. With this training, participants will be able to introduce paddlecraft safety and knowledge beginning paddlers in a land-based setting. This is great training for livery staff, parks staff, individuals helping get people out on the water or anyone who is interested in on-water safety and best practices for enjoyable paddling. To receive the certification, the participant must be an American Canoe Association member. You can also participate in the class and not receive the certification.
This class teaches paddlers the basics for paddle boarding in a fun and safe way. You’ll learn about different paddling board features and types. Learn how to make the paddle board go where you want it to go and basic safety skills needed on the water. You will have the opportunity to learn what to do when (not if) you end up in the water. This class is great for beginners but anyone who has never received formal instruction will benefit.
Class requires participant to bring a paddle board, paddle, and a vest-style pfd (life jacket) which will be worn at all times when on the water.
All classes are taught by ACA (American Canoe Association) certified instructors. Maximum student: teacher ratio is 5:1. Ages: 14 and up. Participants must meet the ACA eligibility requirements here.