Sea Kayaking 115, 5-Day Kayak Training Camp

Sea Kayaking 101, 102, 115

I participated in the one day introductory classes, Sea Kayaking 101 and 102, and the five day training camp, Sea Kayaking 115, during the 2022 summer. My three instructors, Steve Cherkas, Dan Joy, and George Gronseth were patient and encouraging, constantly developing my technique and teaching me about enjoying kayaking ... safely. The five day training was an immersion into technique, navigation, and trip planning. I learned that kayaking is so much more than paddling skills. Who knew how much currents and winds and tides impacted enjoyment and safety! I was uncomfortable for parts of the two-day kayaking experience in the San Juan Islands but I never felt unsafe. George had prepared my group and me to meet each of the challenges the Salish Sea presented to us. In addition, I purchased a kayak, a used dry suit, and other basic gear. I cannot imagine making those purchases without the thoughtful recommendations of Barb Gronseth who spend a number of hours teaching me about the equipment and helping me make informed decisions. I cannot imagine a more welcoming or a more comprehensive introduction to sea kayaking than the Kayak Academy's training program and its instructors. I am very grateful.

Best money spent!

Excellent class! Small class sizes and very activity oriented with the right amount of trip planning and book type learning mixed in. Highly recommended! Come ready to put in a full day and go home tired every day. George really knows both the subject material and how to teach it. I feel like I would like annual refreshers on the fine points. Went on an Alaska cruise ship right after this and kept thinking "I could be on the water here" (cautiously of course).

Awesome Class!

The 5-day training camp was fantastic! Learned a ton and had a great time with fellow classmates and George. The overnight trip was a training session in itself and capped the week off to a great end. I'm much more confident now heading out myself. A must for anyone who is thinking of sea kayaking!