Paddle Canada Level 1 - Norse Cove

Course Overview

Level 1 is a two-day course for new or returning kayakers. You will learn the core skills to plan and enjoy safe day trips on calm, coastal waters (Level 1 conditions). It is a practical foundation that prepares you for more independent paddling and future training.

Over two days (16 hours), plus access to our online manual and workbooks:

• Paddling techniques: forward and reverse strokes, edging, turning, bracing
• Safety skills: wet exit, self-rescue, assisted re-entry
• Navigation and planning: basic charts, weather awareness, simple day trip plans
• Equipment knowledge: how to choose and fit the essentials

You can add a Kayak Maritimes Course Manual. Each manual mirrors the lessons from your course with step-by-step skill breakdowns, clear diagrams, and practical tips. It is a durable, full-colour workbook you can take to the shoreline, mark up with notes, and keep as a lasting reference on your paddling journey.

What to Expect

• Hands-On Learning: practice essential skills in a supportive environment through group activities, games, and drills
• Get Wet: be prepared to get in the water; bring a towel and a change of clothes. Avoid cotton
• Safety First: detailed instruction on safety practices and equipment use
• Rain or Shine: the course runs rain or shine. In case of prolonged thunderstorms, we will reschedule
• Make Friends: meet paddlers who are at a similar stage in their development

What You Need to Bring

Please come prepared with the essentials listed below. If you don’t own them, rentals and loaner gear are available.

Required gear

• Sea kayak with two bulkheads – rental fleet available
• Personal Flotation Device (PFD) – loaners available
• Paddle – rentals available
• Safety kit (Transport Canada approved: pump, whistle, 15 m floating rope) – rentals available

Personal items

• Sunscreen
• Lunch and snacks
• Drinking water

This class is enjoyable, relaxed, and inclusive. We use games, group activities, and real-world scenarios as much as possible. You will only be asked to demonstrate in front of the group if you volunteer, and there is no pressure to speak in front of large crowds unless you choose to. If that sounds appealing, and you are ready for some terrible dad jokes, you are in the right place.

Land acknowledgement

We acknowledge that this course takes place in Mi’kma’ki, the ancestral and unceded territory of the Mi’kmaq People. These lands and waters are governed by Peace and Friendship Treaties. We are grateful for the opportunity to learn, paddle, and share knowledge here, and we remain committed to contributing to Indigenous-led organizations that sustain and protect these waters.