In our Intro to Kayaking on Class I River Water course, we will cover techniques and procedures that are useful to both newer and more experienced (or intrepid) paddlers. We will start with a comprehensive introduction and safety briefing, ensuring everyone is familiar with the necessary safety gear and river hazards.
Next, we will move on to boat and equipment familiarization, where you will learn to adjust the kayak to fit your body, including seat position and foot pegs, as well as how to use and adjust the rudder or skeg for better control. We will then dive into basic paddling techniques, starting with how to enter the kayak safely from the shore. You will learn the correct way to hold the paddle and maintain proper posture, practice the basic forward stroke for efficient paddling, and master turning and steering using sweep strokes and rudder strokes.
Once you are comfortable with the basics, we will head to the water for some on-water practice. You will practice launching from the shore into the river, paddling in a straight line, and performing basic maneuvers such as turning, stopping, and reversing. As we progress, we will focus on river navigation. You will learn to read the river, identify and navigate around obstacles like rocks and eddies, and practice eddy turns and peel outs to understand river currents. We will also cover techniques for crossing currents safely. In the event of a capsize, we will demonstrate and practice wet exits, self-rescue techniques like the paddle float rescue and T-rescue, and assisted rescues to ensure you can help a fellow paddler if needed. Finally, we will wrap up the session with a review and feedback, addressing any questions or concerns you may have, and discussing opportunities for further training and practice. By the end of this course, you will have gained confidence and skills in a controlled and safe environment, preparing you for more challenging waters in the future.
The Connecticut River from the Sunderland Ramp is a great location to begin your journey into river kayaking.
Additional information regarding this experience
What's Included?
Kayaking guides
Kayak, paddle, and PFD appropriate to the water conditions and your needs
Dry storage for small personal items
A great experience on the Connecticut River
What to Bring
Clothes for paddling* + dry clothes
Footwear for paddling* + dry land footwear
Windbreaker
Sunscreen + Hat
Waterproof Camera!
Sunglasses
Other Notes:
If you have never kayaked before, we recommend our Intro To Kayak program on Lake Warner before paddling on the river.
< 12 with guardian in the same tandem kayak
12-15 accompanied on the experience by guardian
16-17 with liability waiver signed by guardian
Adventure East reserves the right to evaluate all paddlers for skill levels and group dynamics to make a final decision on suitability for the experience.
Fitness Level:
Moderate - Able to paddle at a moderate pace for 30 minutes without a break, able to swim at least 10 yards cross-current unassisted
Skill Level:
Beginner/Intermediate - Comfortable control of your boat in moving water to follow guide directions in avoiding hazards. Please contact us if you have any questions.
Dates/Times:
5/31, 6/21, 6/29, 7/27, 8/17, 9/20, 10/4, 10/26 All dates are from 9:00a to 12:00p
Waiver:
Each participant, or their guardian, must sign a waiver to participate in an Adventure East experience. Following payment of your online booking, your reservation confirmation will include a link to e-sign the waiver. Due to insurance requirements, we are unable to accommodate guests who do not sign a waiver.
