Introduction to Recreational Kayaking

Paddling technique, safety and enjoyment are emphasized in this 8 hour introduction to recreational kayaking. Instruction is designed to give participants a solid foundation in recreational kayaking — beginning with choosing the correct equipment and moving to proper weld, entry and launch techniques; balance; bracing; strokes; safety; self-rescue techniques; assisted rescue techniques; and trip planning. There is plenty of time to observe birds and wildlife while practicing various techniques. We will break in the middle for lunch so bring a bag lunch with you.

Fee: $80 per person.

Introduction to Sea Kayaking

This 10 hour introductory course includes the basics of sea kayking, stressing technique, safety and enjoyment — while providing ample opportunity to develop skill through practice. You will learn about equipment, strokes, proper weld, entry, exits, balance, bracing, strokes, safety and rescue techniques.

Fee: $185 per person.

Kayak Roll Classes & Practice

Haw River Canoe and Kayak Co has joined forces with the Burlington Maynard Aquatic Center to offer the Piedmont paddling community an opportunity to take kayak roll instruction any Wednesday night throughout the year. There is no better place to start learning entry level, or advanced paddling skills than in a large, crystal clear pool. Our sessions are from 7:00pm to 8:30 pm. The address for Burlington Maynard Aquatic Center is 1402 Overbrook Road. Burlington, NC 27215

All gear can be provided with instruction. We can provide whitewater, or touring kayaks for our instruction. You are also welcome to bring your own gear to use in this class, we only require that you clean your gear thoroughly to ensure you do not introduce any algae into the pools water system.

It is recommended to sign up for more than one session of instruction but not required, many up and coming boaters can usually obtain one style of rolling within four sessions. Private boaters are also welcome to come in and use the pool with their own equipment to practice rolling for a 5$ entry fee (Paid to the BMAC at their front desk).

With summer in full swing there is no better way to cool off than to be rolling down the river.

Fee: $25.00 per person for instruction plus $5.00 entrance fee paid to BMAC.

To practice your rolls with your own boat and paddling gear there is just the $5.00 entrance fee, paid to BMAC.

Quick Start for Kayak

Designed for the total beginner who doesn’t have time for more in-depth instruction, the “Quick Start” course offers a 3 hour, intense introduction to kayaking. The course emphasizes safety, enjoyment and skill acquisition, and follows American Canoe Association guidelines. Specific topics include personal preparation for the trip, safety and rescue, proper equipment, getting started and maneuvers. A review at the end of the course will help to insure learning.

Fee: $30 per person.