Paddling Lessons

Paddling Lessons

East Coast Outfitters’ founder, Dave Adler, is one of the most highly certified paddling instructors in Canada. He has trained thousands of paddlers, and has certified over 60 instructors in the region.

With over 20 years of experience, Dave has designed an instructional program which meets the needs of every level of paddler—from beginner paddler to professional guide. All of our instructors have completed the ECO guide training program and are certified by Paddle Canada. Our courses cover the safety, theory, and skills you need to be a safe and proficient paddler.

We have several program streams to choose from. If you are new to paddling, have a look at our introductory courses, below. If you have paddled before but are looking to improve your skills, have a look at the Skills Development options. If you are hooked and want to become a guide, see below to find out how.

Lessons

Private lessons

Work one on one or with a small group with one of our trained instructors for a personalized paddling lesson. Learn at your own pace on your own schedule. Lessons can take place at our base or at a location that is convenient for you (a transportation fee will be added). We will cater to course to fit your needs- whether you are brand new to kayaking or want to work on more advanced skills.

Cost $100 for the first hour, $55/hr thereafter. Private lessons are limited to 1 to 4 people. Rental and offsite instruction fee (if applicable) not included.
Time flexible
Location East Coast Outfitters, Lower Prospect or alternate location
Paddling clinics

2 hour paddling clinics take place every Monday evening from 6-8 pm. Topics range from strokes, rescues, rolls and navigation. Instructors work with small groups and start with the basics of each topic, but adapt to suit needs of clients throughout the progression.

Length 2 hours
Cost $30 +tax
Location East Coast Outfitters, Lower Prospect
Includes kayak, gear, instructor
Half Day Introduction to Kayaking

These kayaking lessons are an introduction to kayaking with an emphasis on safe paddling practice. Skills include: wet exit, assisted re-entry, introduction to forward and turning strokes.

Length 4 hours
Cost $100 +tax
Includes kayak, gear, instructor, water, snack
One Day: Introduction to Kayaking

These kayaking lessons introduce the novice to paddling in enclosed shelters and calm conditions. Skills covered include: an overview of forward, turning & bracing strokes, and an introduction to assisted and self rescues.

Cost $150 +tax
Location East Coast Outfitters, Lower Prospect
Includes kayak, gear, instructor, water, snack, lunch and certification fee
Dates every Sunday all season

Participants assessed for Paddle Canada Introduction to Kayaking certification.

Two Day: Sea Kayaking Fundamentals (Paddle Canada Level 1)

These kayaking lessons provide the theory and skills for a daylong sea kayaking trip in sheltered waters and light winds. Includes: controlled wet exits, efficient forward and turning strokes, edging, introduction to bracing, unassisted and assisted rescues.

Cost $300 +tax
Location East Coast Outfitters, Lower Prospect
Includes kayak, gear, instructor, water, snacks, lunches and certification fee
Dates monthly, contact us for availability or check out our calendar

Participants assessed for Paddle Canada Level 1 certification.

4 Day: Sea Kayaking Lessons (Paddle Canada Level II)

These kayaking lessons provide the theory and skills for proficient kayaking at sea in moderate open sea conditions, including overnight camping. Includes: touring, risk assessment, efficient bracing, sculling for support, combined strokes, sustained paddling, introduction to rolling, kayak tripping with overnight camping, moderate winds and sea conditions.

Cost $650 +tax
Location East Coast Outfitters, Lower Prospect
Includes kayak, gear, instructor, certification fee (food and camping equipment not included)
Dates TBA

Participants assessed for Paddle Canada Level 2 certification.

Sea Kayaking Lessons Level 3

Prerequisite: Must have Paddle Canada Level 2 certification or equivalent experience.
These kayaking lessons provide the opportunity to develop leadership, risk-assessment, decision-making, judgement, group management and general seamanship in the content of a multi-day journey.

Cost $750 +tax
Location East Coast Outfitters, Lower Prospect
Includes kayak, gear, instructor and certification fee (food and camping equipment not included)
Dates TBA

Participants assessed for Paddle Canada Level 3 certification.

Coaching

Private lessons with Dave Adler

Dave is a former member of the US Canoe and Kayak Team, and has over 20 years of experience as a professional paddling instructor.

Dave Adler

He is a Paddle Canada Instructor Trainer in sea kayaking, white-water kayaking, and white-water canoeing, and has trained and certified most of the sea kayaking instructors in the region. Work one on one or with a small group with Dave on stroke technique, rescue skills, navigation, or paddling in exposed conditions. Learn at your own pace on your own schedule. Lessons can take place at our base or at a location that is convenient for you (a transportation fee will be added). Dave will cater the course to fit your needs.

Cost $150 for the first hour, $75/hr thereafter. Private lessons are limited to 1 to 4 people. Rental and offsite instruction fee (if applicable) not included.
Time flexible
Location East Coast Outfitters, Lower Prospect or alternate location

Instructor & Guide Training

Instructor Courses

2 Day Instructor Course (Paddle Canada Introduction to Kayaking Instructor certification)

Prerequisite: Paddle Canada SK Skills Level I certification

Cost $395 +tax
Dates TBA
Includes kayak, instruction, course materials, lunches

Does not include Paddle Canada certification fee. For the Paddle Canada program details, click here

4 Day Instructor Course (Paddle Canada Level I Instructor certification)

Prerequisite: Paddle Canada SK Skills Level II certification.
Led by Paddle Canada Instructor Trainer Dave Adler and senior ECO Instructors, this 4 day course covers the skills you need to deliver a 2 day introductory sea kayaking course. The course spans 2 weekends; the second weekend includes an overnight.

Cost $695 +tax
Dates TBA
Includes kayak, instruction, course materials, lunches

Does not include Paddle Canada certification fee. For the Paddle Canada program details, click here

Guide Training

Join East Coast Outfitters in a training program that will leave you with skills you will remember forever. We require no previous experience- we will teach you everything you need to know. We only require that you are a self identified leader, and that you are willing to challenge yourself. This is a comprehensive course which spans fall, winter and spring. Topics include:

  • paddling skills
  • kayak and equipment design
  • self and assisted rescues
  • tidal theory
  • understanding wind, waves, & weather
  • sea kayak navigation
  • night navigation
  • journeying and seamanship
  • coastal ecology
  • wilderness first aid
  • Leave No Trace ethics
  • risk & crisis management
  • outdoor leadership
.

Successful participants are eligible for national certification through Paddle Canada and employment at East Coast Outfitters. Sessions occur on weekends, and take place in the classroom, pool, and on the ocean. Contact us to learn more about the 2010-2011 program.