Introduction to Sea Kayaking and Capsize Recovery
Interested in taking our complete Smart Start to Kayaking Course?
You'll be provided the opportunity to book together together with Sea Kayak Navigation and Touring Essentials when checking out.
All participants must sign a release form. Anyone under the age of 18 will need a parent or legal guardian to sign on their behalf.
Smart Start: Level One | Introduction to Sea Kayaking and Capsize R...
Smart Start 1 – Introduction to Sea Kayaking
Build confidence, learn essential kayaking skills, and prepare for safe paddling adventures on Puget Sound and beyond! Smart Start 1 is a full-day, beginner-friendly sea kayaking course designed for first-time paddlers and those looking to refresh their skills.
Our hands-on instruction covers efficient paddling techniques, kayak safety, boat fit, and capsize recovery in a supportive learning environment.
Class Details
- Time: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM (lunch break included)
- Location: Olympic Outdoor Center Beach, Port Gamble, WA
- Class Size: Maximum 10 students with 2 instructors
- Experience Level: Beginner – no prior experience required
Important: Dry suits are required for capsize recovery. Please add a dry suit rental if you do not have your own. Participants will intentionally capsize and enter the water during this class.
What's Covered
- Kayak design, terminology, and proper boat and PFD fit
- Essential safety practices and efficient paddling techniques
- Forward, reverse, and sweep strokes
- Launching, landing, and kayak handling
-
Wet exits and assisted/self-rescue techniques
What to Bring
- Lunch, snacks, and plenty of water
- Sunscreen and sunglasses with a strap
- Weather-appropriate clothing, including a waterproof/windproof jacket
- Synthetic or wool layers (tops, bottoms, and socks) for wearing under a dry suit
- Towel and a complete change of clothes
- A sense of adventure!
Avoid cotton clothing under your dry suit. Synthetic and wool layers are recommended for warmth in cold water.
Class Itinerary
8:45 AM - Arrival
Please arrive early to allow time for parking and changing.
9:00 AM – Morning Instruction
Meet at Olympic Outdoor Center Beach for kayak orientation, equipment fitting, and safety instruction. Practice fundamental paddle strokes and boat control in protected waters.
Midday – Lunch Break
Enjoy your packed lunch before the afternoon session.
Afternoon – Rescue Skills & Kayak Handling
Practice wet exits, capsize recovery, and rescue techniques.
4:00 PM – Class Ends
Rental Equipment
Dry Suit Rental
NRS Explorer, NRS Foray, Level Six Cronos, or similar.
Includes:
- Dry suit
- Neoprene booties
Kayak Rental
Eddyline Equinox, Eddyline Sitka, Dagger Stratos, or similar. Specific kayak requests will be considered but cannot be guaranteed.
Includes:
- Kayak
- PFD (life jacket)
- Paddle
- Spray skirt
- Bilge pump
- Paddle float
Tips are always appreciated and are a great way to thank your instructors for a fun day on the water!
Our Instructors
Here at Olympic Outdoor Center, we have been teaching classes since 1986 and all of our instructors are experienced paddlers skilled in multiple techniques and safety rescues and we are committed to developing and delivering the best programs possible. We hire and train skilled instructors who are passionate about teaching, the environment, and outdoor recreation. All instructors have basic first aid and CPR certifications.
