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: $60 per person.

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: $120 per person.

Basic River Safety

Our full-day basic river safety course is geared towards individuals looking to gain confidence for their next river adventure. This course consists of a short classroom session followed by both on-land and on-water activities.  Topics cover from what to wear, essential gear to carry and an introduction to basic river rescue.  At least half of the course is devoted to skill acquisition and practice in a controlled environment.

Fee: $100 per person.

Fundamentals of Whitewater Kayaking

This weekend course will provide instruction in the fundamentals of whitewater kayaking.

In the morning of the first day, students will learn about whitewater boating equipment, basic river safety and river navigation.

During the afternoon of the first day, we’ll turn to instruction in essential paddling strokes — forward, draws, sweeps and others — before embarking on a short river trip to practice  eddy turns, peel outs and ferries.

On the second day, we will put together what was learned the first day with a 5.5 mile river trip that emphasizes river reading skills and negotiating class II rapids.

Fee: $195 per person.  A boat, PFD, paddle, spray skirt, wetsuit and helmet are provided.

Kayak Roll Classes & Practice

New Venue and times TBD

Introduction to Sea Kayaking

This 8-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: $120.00 per person.

Private Kayak Instruction

We offer one-on-one instruction for individuals looking to acquire kayaking skills in a private setting.  From beginner recreational kayaking to advanced whitewater kayaking, instruction will be tailored to the individual.  The instructor will emphasize water safety and correct paddling technique.

Fee: $60 per person for 1.5 hours of private instruction.

Custom Trips & Courses Available

Throughout the winter season The Haw River Canoe and Kayak Company will be offering a wide array of custom guided and self guided trips.

Experienced guides and staff members are available to lead groups down several different sections of the Haw River. Weather and water level permitting.

From simple day trips, extended overnight trips, private and group instruction, to class 1-2 sections of the Lower Haw River.  We can tailor a program to fit your needs!

Self Guided trips will also be available if you are looking to get out on your own, depending on weather.

Call in today to speak with a staff member about what opportunities we have available, 336-260-6465