Fundamental Kayaking Skills. Learn and practice basic safety awareness, strokes and maneuvers, and get an introduction to kayaking equipment in this 5-week course. Practice safe capsize and wet exit, beginnings of paddling forward and backwards, stopping, spinning 360, turning, balance, and simple kayak rescues in the comfort of a warm pool. Perfect course if you've never had any previous instruction or if you've never practiced a safe capsize and wet exit. Register with Alaska Kayak School, P.O. Box 3547, Homer, AK 99603, 235-2090, or email alaskakayakschool@gmail.com. Pre-requisites: Can swim and follow verbal instructions.
When: Tuesdays, March 25, April 1, 8, 15, & 22; 8-10 PM.
Where: Kate Kuhns Aquatic Center
Fee: $134 includes all fees and taxes
Registration: Alaska Kayak School (907) 235-2090,P.O. Box 3547, Homer, Alaska 99603. info@alaskakayakschool.com, (online
registration).
Sea Kayak Rescues. You have developed fundamental and intermediate kayaking skills and are interested in becoming proficient at a diversity of assisted and solo sea kayak rescues such as: the t-rescue and its many variations, the yank-speed rescue, paddle float rescue, paddle float roll, the excellent “cowboy scramble”, t-x rescue, trapped-paddler rescue, Cleopatra’s Needle (how to rescue a sinking kayak) , boat tractor, carrying/towing a swimmer and many more. We teach a repertoire of over 30 sea kayak rescues, all with appropriate applications. This is a course for anyone that sea kayaks or is thinking of sea kayaking. This is a rescue and safety awareness course, not a boat control class. To develop boat control skills, take the Fundamental Skills course. Register with Alaska Kayak School, P.O. Box 3547, Homer, AK 99603, 235-2090, or email alaskakayakschool@gmail.com. Pre-requisites: wet exit and fundamental skills, or permission of instructors.
When: Wednesdays, March 26, and April 2, 9, 16, & 23; from 8-10 PM.
Where: Kate Kuhns Aquatic Center
Fee: $134 includes all fees and taxes
Registration: Alaska Kayak School (907) 235-2090,P.O. Box 3547, Homer, Alaska 99603. info@alaskakayakschool.com, (online
registration).
Eskimo rolling and bracing. You have developed your intermediate skills, including your balance and bracing, and you may have started to develop your Eskimo rolling skills, but your “roll” is not 100%, even in flat water. Develop a keen awareness and the safe practice of the details of Eskimo rolling, the ultimate self-rescue for kayakers. Ideally, this is a class for paddlers that have developed their wet exits, Eskimo rescues, efficient sweep strokes, sculling skills, and paddle blade control. It takes time to develop functional bracing and rolling skills, and this is a course that focuses on these useful but counter-intuitive skills. Register with Alaska Kayak School, P.O. Box 3547, Homer, AK 99603, 235-2090, or email alaskakayakschool@gmail.com. Pre-requisite: fundamental skills.
When: Thursdays, March 27, and April 3, 10, 17, and 24; 8-10 PM
Where: Kate Kuhns Aquatic Center
Fee: $134 includes all fees and taxes
Registration: Alaska Kayak School (907) 235-2090,P.O. Box 3547, Homer, Alaska 99603. info@alaskakayakschool.com, (online
registration).
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Soldotna Community Schools Pool Kayaking
Fundamental Kayaking Skills
Learn the basics of kayaking in a 4-hour course that combines a 30-minute lecture and a 3.5 hour pool kayaking skills training session
in river kayaks in the comfort of a heated pool. Topics covered
include selecting a kayak, kayak fit and posture, safe carrying and
launching, the paddle, safe capsize and recovery, hypothermia cold
shock and clothing, group dynamics, and strokes and maneuvers
(forward, back, stop, spin, turn, rudder, balance and bracing, simple
towing and basics of rescues). An introduction to Eskimo rolling will
also be covered. These are generic skills shared by all types of kayaking: sea, white water, surf, marathon, polo, etc. Regardless of your interest or experience in kayaking, these fundamental skills will improve or awaken the kayaking skills you already have. A final assessment of your skills will give you direction for future training and skill development. Professional kayak instructors are your coaches. Course covers British Canoe Union 1-2 star skills, American Canoe Association level 1 and 2 skills. This is an ideal course if you’ve never had kayaking instruction. All equipment is provided. Course taken as a single session, with follow up instruction in the “Beyond the Basics” course offered Saturday afternoons.
WHEN: Saturdays, Oct 20, Nov 17, Dec 8, Jan 19, Feb 16, Mar 15, & Apr 19;
TIME: 9 AM - 1 p.m.
WHERE: So Hi Pool, Soldotna
FEE: $75/person/4 hr. session, repeat students get $5 off/session
Registration: Alaska Kayak School (907) 235-2090,P.O. Box 3547, Homer, Alaska 99603. info@alaskakayakschool.com, (online
registration).
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Beyond Fundamentals –
Kayaking Skills Refinement w/ Rescues
Build on your fundamental kayaking skills and develop refined strokes
and maneuvers, balance, bracing and rolling, crisp efficient rescues, and a detailed awareness of the sport of kayaking. Strokes and maneuvers emphasized include efficient forward and back paddling, sculling draw, low and high braces, sculling for support, Eskimo rescues, assisted rescues, and development of Eskimo rolling skills. These are generic skills shared by all types of kayaking: sea, white water, surf, marathon, polo, etc. Four-hour sessions include 30-minute lecture and 3.5 hour skills training in the pool each session. This course will include kayak maneuvering skills and sea kayak rescues. Professional kayak instructors are your coaches. Course focuses on British Canoe Union 2-3 star skills and American Canoe Association level 2-3 skills. All equipment is provided. Fundamental kayaking skills are a prerequisite for this class. This syllabus is a large body of skill; many students repeat the course at least once.
WHEN: Saturdays, Oct 20, Nov 17, Dec 8, Jan 19, Feb 16, Mar 15, & Apr 9.
TIME: 1:30-5:30 p.m.
WHERE: So Hi Pool, Soldotna
FEE: $75/person/4 hr. session, repeat students get $5 off/session
Registration: Alaska Kayak School (907) 235-2090,P.O. Box 3547, Homer, Alaska 99603. info@alaskakayakschool.com, (online
registration).
* Reservations policy: We consider a reservation with payment and a completed registration form to be final. If you must cancel, and you can find a replacement student, you can receive a full refund; otherwise we will transfer your fees to a program on a different date. Any cancellations after the Friday before a program can receive no refund, your best bet is to sell your spot to a friend. Feel free to contact us for more details , (907) 235-2090.
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Service Pool Winter Kayaking Skills Series: 2007-2008
The premise: the massive fun that can be had learning kayaking skills in a pool in winter can pay off in spades during the paddling season, i.e., our Alaska summer. For six years we’ve been training paddlers in Kenai Peninsula and Anchorage pools and have seen the results over and over again. If you are a developing paddler you get to discover skills you get to put to use in summer by training in the pool in the winter. If you are an experienced paddler, you get to improve and maintain your skills so you can go “bigger” next summer. Alaska Kayak School instructors are fun hogs that love having fun on the water, and have made a lifestyle out of it, so if you want to know more about paddling, you’ve come to the right folks. OK now just for fun, check out the ONLINE VIDEO LIBRARY link in the news on the home page, hope you enjoy. In the meantime, here’s our 2007-08 Service Pool program description. All instructors have been professionally trained and assessed by the American Canoe Association and/or the British Canoe Union, two of the most prestigious certifying bodies in the history of paddling.
Fundamental Kayaking Skills @ Service High School Pool. Develop or review the foundation of safe and efficient kayaking skills using small maneuverable river kayaks in the comfort of a heated pool. Professional instructors help you develop important skills common to all kayaking disciplines: posture and safe use of the body, hypothermia and cold shock avoidance, forward, stop, back, spin, turn, rudder, move sideways, group awareness and communication, and simple rescues. These skills are the foundation of more refined techniques that rely on the simple building blocks included in this introductory course. Each course is a 4-hour stand-alone program that prepares you for additional training. All kayaking equipment provided; just bring a swimsuit, drinking water and snacks, and lots of enthusiasm for fun !!!
Days: Saturday
Dates: November 24, December 15, January 26, February 9, March 22, April 12 & 26.
Times: 230 PM – 630 PM
Location: Service High School Pool, Anchorage
Cost: $105 w/ card, $100 check or m.o.
Pre-requisites: can swim and follow verbal instructions.
Registration: Alaska Kayak School (907) 235-2090,P.O. Box 3547, Homer, Alaska 99603. info@alaskakayakschool.com, (online
registration).
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Kayaking Skill refinement with Rescues @ Service High School Pool. Refine and review your fundamental kayaking skills, add to your comfort and confidence in a kayak, and develop refined boat and paddle control. This class consists of a review of the fundamental skills and the addition of refined skills and more involved rescues than in our introductory course. Efficient forward paddling, turning, edging, sculling, Eskimo rescues, bracing and balance, stern rudder, back paddling under control, refinement of the draw stroke, are just a few of the possibilities. This fun class is a great preparation for our Eskimo rolling and bracing course, and the sea kayak rescue course. Each 4-hr. course is a stand-alone program that prepares you for additional training and paddling. All kayaking equipment is provided; just bring a swimsuit, drinking water and snacks, and lots of enthusiasm for fun !!! Professional instructors help you develop important skills common to all kayaking disciplines: sea, whitewater, surf, polo, etc.
Days: Sunday
Dates: November 25, December 16, January 27, February 10, March 23, April 13 & 27.
Times: 10 AM – 2 PM
Location: Service High School Pool, Anchorage
Cost: $105 w/ card, $100 check or m.o.
Pre-requisite: Fundamental Kayaking Skills
Registration: Alaska Kayak School (907) 235-2090,P.O. Box 3547, Homer, Alaska 99603. info@alaskakayakschool.com, (online
registration).
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Sea Kayak Rescue @ Service High Pool. Learn and practice efficient and safe sea kayak rescues in the comfort of a warm pool. Try the simple and immediate “yank” rescue and the useful t-rescue, but also dabble in: Eskimo rescue, inside and outside scoop, paddle float rescue, re-enter and roll, and much more. We teach over 30 sea kayak rescues for a variety of situations and conditions; all are appropriate and most efficient for their intended use. How many do you know? Alaska Kayak School instructors are professional kayak coaches and assessors of kayaking skills and water safety, and are qualified to train and assess paddlers of all levels of experience - novices to advanced paddlers. Have you ever thought of rolling a double kayak? This is your chance to try without having to wear protective coldwater clothing. Sea Kayak rescue is undoubtedly our most fun and perhaps most useful course for sea paddlers once they develop their balance and boat handling skills. All kayaking equipment is provided; just bring a swimsuit, drinking water and snacks, and lots of enthusiasm for fun !!! Participate in an ad hoc “rescue rodeo” as part of the class ! Each class is a 4-hr. stand-alone session.
Days: Saturday
Dates: November 24, December 15, January 26, February 9, March 22, April 12 & 26.
Times: 10 AM – 2 PM
Location: Service High School Pool, Anchorage
Cost: $105 w/ card, $100 check or m.o.
Pre-requisites: As a minimum, Fundamental Kayaking Skills, and Skill refinement w/ rescues is preferable.
Registration: Alaska Kayak School (907) 235-2090,P.O. Box 3547, Homer, Alaska 99603. info@alaskakayakschool.com, (online
registration).
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Eskimo Rolling and Bracing@ Service High Pool. One of the benefits of paddling a decked kayak is the ability to loose and regain balance while paddling by using your body efficiently to right the kayak without wet-exiting the once you’ve capsized. Pretty cool !! This class is an opportunity for paddlers to develop their balance, bracing and Eskimo rolling skills. We focus on drills and exercises that are safe and effective in order to help you develop and learn better balance, recovery, and bracing skills, as well as the all powerful self-rescue, the Eskimo roll. Learning how to roll can be confusing and is fraught with the very real possibility of serious shoulder injury. We focus on the reliable “sweep roll” which is useful for both river and sea paddlers alike, and provides a safe technique that protects your shoulder if you follow a reasonable and logical skill progression. It can take time to develop your rolling skills, but it is so worth the effort. Rolling is essential for kayaking rivers and desirable for sea kayaking (especially in cold water). Besides, it’s really fun !! We often use video analysis to help you develop your rolling skills. All kayaking equipment provided; just bring a swimsuit, drinking water and snacks, and lots of enthusiasm for fun !!! Professional instructors help you develop your skills. Each class is a 4-hr. stand-alone session.
Days: Sunday
Dates: November 25, December 16, January 27, February 10, March 23, April 13 & 27.
Times: 230 PM – 630 PM
Location: Service High School Pool, Anchorage
Cost: $105 w/ card, $100 check or m.o.
Pre-requisite: intermediate skills training, such as BCU 2-3 star, or Skill Refinement w/ rescues, or permission of the instructors.
Registration: Alaska Kayak School (907) 235-2090,P.O. Box 3547, Homer, Alaska 99603. info@alaskakayakschool.com, (online
registration).
* Reservations policy: We consider a reservation with payment and a completed registration form to be final. If you must cancel, and you can find a replacement student, you can receive a full refund; otherwise we will transfer your fees to a program on a different date. Any cancellations after the Friday before a program can receive no refund, your best bet is to sell your spot to a friend. Feel free to contact us for more details , (907) 235-2090.
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May 08
May 2nd-4th (5th or 6th), or May 16th –18th (or 19th).
Personal Sea Kayaking Skills @ Halibut Cove, Alaska – AKA Ride the Tide I. Develop your personal sea kayaking skills by tuning the skills you have and building new skills while paddling the varied environments of Halibut Cove, Halibut Cove Lagoon, and upper Kachemak Bay. Develop efficient flat-water skills and apply them in moving water, wind and waves. We use effective progressions developed by the ACA and the BCU to help you achieve proficiency through drills, games, and rescue scenarios. Paddling sea kayaks in fast current is the highlight of this early spring course. Previous kayak training in fundamental skills is desirable, especially the wet exit. This course is suited to paddlers of any level of experience from novice to advanced. You will be coached at your level. What is provided: All kayaking gear including dry suits, kayaks, paddles, etc. , and all instruction by experienced coaches and instructors in the BCU and ACA. You provide: water taxi fee (or your own transportation), camping gear and your own food and personal clothing. Logistics: Water taxi to Halibut Cove in time to make camp and cook dinner on Friday 2 May and spend 2-4 nights and 2-4 days camping and sea kayak training in Halibut Cove and Halibut Cove Lagoon. Can be taken as 2, 3, or 4-day course. Water taxi back afternoons of Sunday, Monday or Tuesday 4, 5 or 6 May around dinner-time.
When: Session I May 2-4 (or 5, 6)
Session II May 16-18 (19)
Where: Halibut Cove
Cost: 2-day - $265+ sales tax and $20 HCS fee; 3 day $375 + tax and $20 HCS fee; 4 day - $445 + sales tax and $20 HCS fee
Prerequisites: wet exit, fundamental skills, or permission of instructors.
Registration: Alaska Kayak School (907) 235-2090,P.O. Box 3547, Homer, Alaska 99603. info@alaskakayakschool.com, (online
registration).
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May 9th-12th
American Canoe Association Coastal Kayak Trip Leading Assessment Course @ Halibut Cove, Alaska – Perfect for would be guides or any individual interested in leading friends or family on a sea kayak trip in calm conditions (winds 10 knots or less, waves 1.5 ft. or less) this course will: Day 1) tune your personal sea kayaking skills, Day 2) provide safety education appropriate for leadership in calm waters, and Day 3) provide training in sea kayak leadership skills and navigation. American Canoe Association membership and other fees apply if you want to get the Trip Leading certification. This is not an instructor course; it is a trip-leading course. A written exam is required for the certification. What is provided: all kayaking gear including dry suits, kayaks, paddles, etc., and all instruction by ACA instructors. You provide: water taxi fee (or your own transportation), camping gear and your own food and personal clothing. Logistics: Water taxi to Halibut Cove in time to make camp and cook dinner on Friday 9 May and spend 3 nights, 3 days camping and sea kayak training in Halibut Cove and Halibut Cove Lagoon. Water taxi back afternoon of Monday 12 May around dinner-time.
When: May 9-12
Where: Halibut Cove
Cost: 3-day $325 + taxes, $15 Community Schools Fee, and ACA membership fees for Trip Leader Certification ($430); $375 if no certification is sought.
Prerequisites: fundamental sea kayaking skills, or permission.
Registration: Alaska Kayak School (907) 235-2090,P.O. Box 3547, Homer, Alaska 99603. info@alaskakayakschool.com, (online
registration).
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Alaska Kayak School’s Immersion Sea Kayaking Skills Symposium (ISKSS), Friday 23 May to Tuesday 27 May, 2008, Memorial Day Weekend, Homer, Alaska.
This year, 2008, ISKSS offers 5 days of consecutive instruction on a progression from fundamentals and rescues taught in flat water to paddling in current and open water crossings in the natural beauty of Kachemak Bay. This program offers opportunities to learn in conditions on a progression aimed at safety, fun and efficiency. Push your envelope with advanced coaches and instructors or get a solid foundation to build on, learn at your own level. We offer courses for paddlers of all skill levels, novice to advanced. Paddle and learn in varied conditions and use immersion wear used by the instructors, drysuits, booties, gloves, helmets, etc. High quality equipment we offer enhances your learning experience. You can’t imagine the fun you can have swimming around your sea kayak in perfect comfort in a dry suit and warm fleece with dry warm feet, hundreds of smiling students enjoy our programs each year, so join the Kayak School family. All outer wear and kayaking gear is provided; you provide layers of clothing and other minor gear. We offer NDK and Valley kayaks, one of our trademarks, maneuverable, sea worthy, and easy to learn in.
Start the event with a tuning of your flat water skills, and put the skills to work in the level II skills courses and sea kayak rescues course; then paddle in conditions in the “ride the tide” and “bay crossing” events as the weekend winds down. Sign up for the whole event, 1 class per day for 5 days in the “full meal deal” $550 + tax, a savings of $125. Just make sure you have the energy !!!
Schedule for Alaska kayak School’s 2008
Immersion Sea Kayaking Skills Symposium
23-27 May 2008, Homer, Alaska
Friday 23 May
Personal Sea Skills I
Personal Sea Skills II
Saturday 24 May
Personal Sea Skills I
Personal Sea Skills II
Sea Kayaking Skill and Rescue Demonstration
Sunday 25 May
Personal Sea Skills I
Sea Kayak Rescues
Monday 26 May
Ride the Tide, Paddling Sea Kayaks in Tidal Stream Currents
Tuesday 27 May
“The Crossing”, Open Water Skills
Immersion Sea Kayaking Skills Symposium
May 23-27, 2008
Course Descriptions
Personal Sea Skills I - Develop safe and effective sea kayaking skills and habits for paddling in Alaska. Learn to dress for immersion and establish a foundation for long-term skill development for safe sea kayaking. Learn and practice safe capsize and re-entry – students and instructors all wear dry suits and warm clothing so that swimming in the ocean is fun! Skills that are taught in this course include: proper “fit” to a sea kayak, using a paddle safely, the importance of posture, knowledge of safety features of kayaking equipment, safe landing and launching. Other important skills included are: effective forward and back paddling, stopping, spinning, and turning the kayak, developing and maintaining balance, moving the kayak sideways, ruddering and effective rescues. This program is all part of this 1-day course in the fundamentals of sea kayaking, and is a perfect learning opportunity if you’ve never paddled sea kayaks before or have paddled before but have never had any instruction. Young paddlers ages 13-18 years old are welcome. What can you expect to get out of this course? You can expect to have a general understanding of the fundamentals of sea kayaking: knowledge of equipment for paddling safely in Alaska, basic strokes and maneuvers, simple assisted and solo rescues, and above all a safe capsize. Oh, yeah, perhaps most importantly, and have a ton of fun in the process. General areas of instruction include ACA Coastal Kayak levels 1 and 2, and BCU 1-2 star skills. All equipment provided (kayak, paddle, skirt., dry suit, booties, gloves, helmet, etc.); except personal clothing, extra clothing (in a dry bag) lunch (in a dry bag) and drinking water.
Dates: May 23, 24, or 25
Days: Friday, Saturday, or Sunday
Times: 9 AM – 5 PM, meet at 830 AM
Location: Homer Spit Marine Terminal on Homer Spit
Pre-requisites: can swim and follow verbal instructions
Cost: $125 + sales tax; youth $105 + tax; $5 discount if you take more than one course.
Registration: Alaska Kayak School (907) 235-2090,P.O. Box 3547, Homer, Alaska 99603. info@alaskakayakschool.com, (online
registration).
Personal Sea Skills II - Practice and develop specific strokes, maneuvers and rescues for safe and effective paddling in Alaska. Build on a foundation of your prior kayaking skills to develop a repertoire of fun and useful maneuvers that will increase your confidence and fun on the water. Specific strokes and maneuvers that we cover in this course include: efficient forward, back paddling and stopping, stern rudder, draw stroke, sculling-draw, edging and balance, low and high recoveries, low brace turn, bow rudder turn, draw on the move, hanging draw and more. Assisted and solo rescues covered include: the t-rescue, the “yank” rescue, efficient and safe use of a sea kayaking towline, inside and outside scoop rescue, paddle float rescue and the cowboy scramble. A detailed review of safety and emergency gear will round out this detailed course. Increase your awareness of sea kayak design, function, and safety features of sea kayaks. Develop skills that will help you control your kayak in windy and wavy conditions as well as improve your wet exit performance, re-entry procedures and rescuer capabilities. What can you expect to get out of this course? You can expect to: develop and improve your knowledge and performance of specific strokes and maneuvers, increase your comfort with a wet exit and re-entry procedures, have a ton of fun, and become much more confident paddling in cold water. General areas of instruction include ACA Coastal Kayak levels 1, 2 and 3, and BCU 1-3 star skills. All equipment provided (kayak, paddle, skirt., dry suit, booties, gloves, helmet, etc.) except personal clothing, extra clothing (in a dry bag) lunch (in a dry bag) and drinking water.
Dates: May 23, 24
Days: Friday or Saturday
Times: 9 AM – 5 PM, meet at 830 AM
Location: Homer Spit Marine Terminal on Homer Spit
Pre-requisites: fundamental skills and a confident wet exit, this is a sequel to the Personal Sea Skills I course.
Cost: $125 + sales tax; youth $105 + tax; $5 discount if you take more than one course.
Registration: Alaska Kayak School (907) 235-2090,P.O. Box 3547, Homer, Alaska 99603. info@alaskakayakschool.com, (online
registration).
Sea Kayaking Skill and Rescue Demonstration – a spectator event. Alaska Kayak School instructors and staff will provide a demonstration of safe and effective sea kayaking skill and rescue for members of the general public from 1-1:45 PM @ the Homer Spit Marine Terminal. Skills demonstrated will include: efficient forward, back paddling and stopping, steering, turning and maintaining balance, recovering balance, rolling and rescues. Specific strokes and maneuvers will include: stern rudder, low brace turn, bow rudder turn, draw stroke, sculling draw, sculling for support, draw on the move, hanging draw (aka side slip), low and high recoveries, and Eskimo roll. Specific rescues to be shown will include: Eskimo (bow) rescue, t-rescue, “yank’ speed rescue, inside and outside scoop rescue, cowboy scramble, sling rescue, paddle float rescue, and re-enter and roll. Come see the full repertoire of strokes, maneuvers and rescues used by skilled paddlers that paddle in advanced conditions.
Dates: May 24, 25
Days: Saturday & Sunday
Times 1200-1230 PM
Location: Homer Spit Marine Terminal on Homer Spit
Pre-requisites: Can see and watch
Cost: FREE
Registration: Alaska Kayak School (907) 235-2090,P.O. Box 3547, Homer, Alaska 99603. info@alaskakayakschool.com, (online
registration).
Sea Kayak Rescues This is an all-day course dedicated to the theory and practice of life saving and rescue for sea kayak paddlers. Develop an awareness of the safety features of sea kayaks, paddling gear, and sea kayaking safety equipment. Practice and learn a whole array of sea kayak rescues for many different applications, such as the t-rescue, t-x rescue, “yank” speed rescue, double kayak rescues, inside and outside scoop, Cleopatra’s Needle (save a sinking kayak), Eskimo “bow” rescue, capsize and swim your kayak to shore, paddle float rescue, cowboy scramble, transport a swimmer on your kayak, safe use and applications for towlines, sling-rescue for weakened paddlers, and more. This is an active and very fun (wet) course, but it’s extremely rewarding. Teams of participants will get to solve their own rescue scenario at the end of the course. This course is a citizen’s version of the British Canoe Union’s Canoeing Safety Test, and is full of practical and useful tips, techniques and skills. Course is very appropriate for any paddler, and is even useful as a tune up for experienced sea kayaking guides. All equipment provided (kayak, paddle, skirt., dry suit, booties, gloves, helmet, etc.) except personal clothing, extra clothing (in a dry bag) lunch (in a dry bag) and drinking water.
Dates: May 25
Days: Sunday
Times: 9 AM – 5 PM (meet at 830 AM)
Location: Homer Spit Marine Terminal on Homer Spit
Pre-requisites: Fundamental to intermediate sea kayaking skill, and a confident wet exit
Cost: $125 + tax; youth $105 + tax; $5 discount if you take more than one course.
Registration: Alaska Kayak School (907) 235-2090,P.O. Box 3547, Homer, Alaska 99603. info@alaskakayakschool.com, (online
registration).
Ride the Tide: Paddling Sea Kayaks in Tidal Stream Currents. Learn what causes tides and currents and how to predict them using tidal constants. Practice and learn to paddle sea kayaks in fast tidal stream current at the entrance to Halibut Cove lagoon. Learn fundamentals of kayak control in current and develop group awareness and safety skills: group awareness, communication, ferries, peel outs, eddy turns, etc. You will practice sea kayak control and safety; i.e., transfer beginner and intermediate sea skills from flat water to fast moving water, including rescues. We will tune up in flat water before moving the session into tidal stream current @ Halibut Cove Lagoon. Water taxi fee (approximately $70) is included. All equipment provided (kayak, paddle, skirt, dry suit, booties, gloves, helmet, etc.) except personal clothing, extra clothing (in a dry bag) lunch and drinking water.
Dates: May 26
Days: Monday
Times: 9 AM – 5 PM (meet at 830 AM)
Location: Homer Spit Marine Terminal on Homer Spit
Pre-requisites: Intermediate Sea kayaking Skills (BCU 3 star, ACA level 2-3)
Cost: $165 + tax; youth $155 + tax; $5 discount if you take more than one course.
Registration: Alaska Kayak School (907) 235-2090,P.O. Box 3547, Homer, Alaska 99603. info@alaskakayakschool.com, (online
registration).
“The Crossing”, Open Water Skills. Develop open water paddling skills while crossing Kachemak Bay twice on this day trip to the south side of the bay and back, launching from and returning to the Spit. Stamina, a confident wet exit, efficient forward paddling and sweep strokes are necessary to participate in this course in leadership, decision making, group dynamics, applied navigation, and open water paddling techniques. All kayaking equipment provided (kayak, paddle, skirt, dry suit, booties, gloves, helmet, etc.); you provide personal clothing, warm extra clothing (in a dry bag) lunch and drinking water, you will receive an equipment and clothing list once registered. You may have to provide your own dry bags and extra warm clothing.
Dates: May 27
Days: Tuesday
Times: 9 AM – 5 PM (meet at 830 AM)
Location: Lands End, tip of Homer Spit, parking lot next to marine Highway ferry dock
Pre-requisites: Intermediate Sea kayaking Skills (BCU 3 star, ACA CK level 2-3), confident wet exit, effective forward paddling and sweep strokes with edging -- no exceptions. We may be able to provide a pre-trip assessment, please ask.
Cost: $135 + tax, to Register: Alaska Kayak School (907) 235-2090; info@alaskakayakschool.com, (online registration). P.O. Box 3547, Homer, Alaska 99603.
Registration: Alaska Kayak School (907) 235-2090,P.O. Box 3547, Homer, Alaska 99603. info@alaskakayakschool.com, (online
registration).
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June 08
Kings Bay Expedition
Skill level: Beginner-Intermediate (BCU 2-3 star)
Alaska Kayak School, Homer
June 1-7, 2008
$2300/person
$2200/person if you reserve by 31 Jan 2008
To see online video of Kings Bay click here
For full length version of Kings Bay video check out Kayak Journal 5, available from KayakJournal.com
Goals: To paddle in scenic and remote glacial fjords, surprise bears on a quiet beach, and be in Alaska for the big bang of a northern spring. The Prince William Sound region is largely managed for its wilderness values and there are no towns or homes anywhere in the vicinity of Nellie Juan Fjord, and Kings Bay, our primary destinations. This region is virtual wilderness with seasonal populations of both Humpbacked Whales and Orca. High points of this journey include: exploring Derrickson Lagoon, Nellie Juan glacier. and the circumnavigation of Kings Bay.
These remote fjords have a feel of “wild” and huge, the sheer magnitude of the landscape dwarfs anyone’s imagination.
These quiet bays are surrounded by mountains and ice-fields, and early summer weather can be relatively mild when compared to the nearby outer coast. Prince William Sound is the northern limit of the Pacific Coast Temperate rain forests, and many species of trees, birds, mammals and other biota common in the Pacific “Northwet” reach the limit of their distribution here.
Skills Needed: To happily camp and paddle in the rain is key. It’s often necessary paddle in wind, and to maneuver the kayaks among ice bits and small bergs, so good kayak control skills are important, and its great practice also. Occasionally it’s necessary to paddle in light to moderate winds (10-15 knots) and seas 2-3 feet. Surf landings and paddling in fast current and bigger swells is not likely. Some of the longer paddling days will consist of 14-16 miles paddling over the course of the day, spending up 6 hours in the saddle, with leg breaks scattered in between. We often plan to use current and wind as much as possible to keep the help keep grunt factor down.
Conditions expected: The waters of these fjords are calm-ish unless there is a storm or moderate winds against a tidal flow. The Sound is known for its tidewater glaciers; and there’s a reason for it, precipitation is high. Rain is to be expected. Having said that, we’ve done many trips in the Sound where rain is not a factor. Having good tents, rain gear, and “dry” paddling gear and a small personal tarp can go a long way towards being able to paddle and camp in the rain. Camp tarps and favorable camp sites plus good “moisture management” behavior helps make trips to the Sound really enjoyable, in spite of the potential for wet weather. In case you’re worried, remember this, in 2001 we did a 14-day trip in the Sound in which the most important criteria for a campsite was “shade”. It was so sunny that we baked on the water while paddling, and in camp after paddling. Prepare for sun and rain and you’ll not be disappointed. Bonus : this is an early season trip, bugs are not expected !!
Weather: Prince William Sound can get a lot of rain, but it can just as easily be very sunny and hot (70’s). That’s not to say that it will rain. We’ve done many trips to the Sound in which rain was not a factor. But having said that, it’s often cloudy and sometimes foggy. Drizzle and rain are common. The high precipitation makes this geographic area unique and creates the glaciers. Daytime highs in the 50-60’s and nights in the 40s-50s Fahrenheit would be normal. Summer storms with high winds and rains are not frequent, but they do occur, and could severely restrict our activities. Luckily good weather forecasts are usually available on marine VHF bands, so planning for the coming storm is normal. Good rain gear, a quality tent, synthetic sleeping bag (down is risky, contact us to discuss it – thx), and a few tarps make camping in the rain a challenge, but quite fun; definitely clean.
Wildlife: An expected list of mammals that could be seen on this adventure includes: Sea and River otters, Harbor Seal, Humpbacked Whale and Orca, Dall Porpoise, Harbor Porpoise, and Black Bear. We’ve seen both mink and short-tailed weasels in the area before as well. Terrestrial and marine birds we expect on this trip include: Marbled Murrelets, North Western Crow, Bald Eagle, Black legged Kittiwake, Glaucous-winged Gull, Pigeon Guillemot, Common Raven, Winter Wren, Hermit Thrush, Harlequin Duck, Black Oystercatcher, Double crested Cormorants and more. Bugs are a factor after early June, but never intolerable (we have simple but effective bug jackets for your use and comfort). Its the breeding season, so we’ll hear lots of bird song,
Logistics: You fly to Anchorage International (unless you have driven to Alaska via the Alaska Highway), and we arrange ground transportation form there to the port of Whittier Alaska, gateway to Prince William Sound. It’s best you arrive the day before s you can get a good night’s rest before we pick you up at a central location in Anchorage to bring you to the B&B in Whittier by early afternoon on 31 May. After he help you finish packing your gear in preparation for the next’s day’s departure we’ll have an introduction and an evening meal at a local sea food eatery, so I hope you like fresh fish and shrimp. After a good night’s sleep we’ll have a mid morning departure on a water taxi with all our gear for the week. After a scenic boat ride in a comfortable cabin, we’ll land at our starting point in Nellie Juan Fjord. After paddling and camping for six nights and 7 days, we’ll get picked up for the return boat trip to Whittier on
Guides: Tom Pogson, a retired wildlife biologist, and a level 4 BCU sea kayak coach and ACA Coastal Kayak instructor trainer trainee, has spent 26 field seasons in Alaska, been teaching paddling since 1995 and leading sea kayak trips in Alaska since 1999; and Russell Farrow, level 3 BCU coach and experienced sea kayak leader and winner of the 2007 Vacation to Hell Expedition Grant to the high Canadian Arctic.
What’s included: Transportation to and from Whittier from Anchorage, water taxi trip into Prince William Sound, all meals in Whittier and on the trip (alcohol is not included), all leadership and instruction, kayaks and kayaking gear. Dry suits are available for rent ($150/trip for breathable suits in great condition – mostly new).
Equipment: Most of the Kayak School’s fleet is Nigel Dennis Explorers, but we have an assortment of Valley, Kajaksport, Necky, Nimbus and Wilderness Systems kayaks. Yes, we have a few LV Explorers for the smaller paddlers and even HV Explorers for the stronger set. We provide most kayaking gear in addition to cookware and rain tarps. Its best if you bring your own cup, bowl, utensils, and tents (4-season please), but we have a few tested tents we can rent you if needed; some dry bags are available, please ask.
Food: We provide simple but tasty and nutritious meals that will keep your furnace stoked and your energy up for the adventures at hand. We have been known to bake cakes for birthdays and special occasions. Special diets can be accommodated, just ask for details and let us know how we can help with your food needs.
Itinerary **
- Saturday Day 1 (May 31) - Arrive in Anchorage, travel overland to Whittier where we'll get acquainted over halibut, shrimp n' chips and spend the night in a local B & B.
- Sunday Day 2 (June 1) Sort gear in Whittier and board a water taxi to Nellie Juan Fjord, camp @ Derrickson Lagoon.
- Monday Day 3 (June 2) Explore Derrickson Lagoon and Nellie Juan Fiord as a day trip, camp in same location as June 1.
- Tuesday Day 4 (June 3) Paddle to Kings Bay and camp, exploring along the way.
- Wednesday Day 5 (June 4) – Paddle explore as we move camp deeper into Kings Bay, camp.
- Thursday Day 6 (June 5) – Paddle out of Kings Bay, camp in Kings Bay or Deep Water Bay.
- Friday Day 7 (June 6) – Paddle back to Nellie Juan Fjord, camp.
- Saturday Day 8 (June 7)- Water Taxi pick up, boat trip to Whittier and a “disorientation dinner” in out of the elements; stay in Whittier @ B&B.
- Sunday Day 9 (June): Sunday—Early departure from Whittier to catch flights from Anchorage, or continue your Alaska visit.
** Rough guide to the trip, details may change.
Reservations are held with a deposit of $300 and a completed registration form; 50% of the balance of your trip fees is due 75 days before departure, including the$300 deposit. The final 50% is due 30 days prior to departure. Deposit fully refundable up to 75 days before departure. See terms and conditions (in your registration packet) for details of the refund policy.
The Alaska Kayak School operates in accordance with special use permit requirements of the U.S. Forest Service.
Registration: Alaska Kayak School (907) 235-2090,P.O. Box 3547, Homer, Alaska 99603. info@alaskakayakschool.com, (online
registration).
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Sea Kayak Tripping Course in Kachemak Bay
Skill Level Beginner – Intermediate
Alaska Kayak School
June 13 – 18
$795/person + tax
Develop your personal sea kayak tripping skills by spending 5 nights and 6 days in paddling in Kachemak Bay, Alaska. You will be planning the trip, organizing the gear, learning and practicing strokes and maneuvers, safety and rescues, tripping and navigation skills. Do all this by coming on a multi-day sea kayak trip from one end of Kachemak Bay to the other. This is instructional sea kayak trip is a “course” designed to help you practice and learn the skills needed to plan and enjoy sea kayaking trips in Alaska safely. Kachemak Bay is an ideal location to learn sea paddling because of easy access to a scenic and interesting coastline, and for ocean features useful in learning paddling skills: flat water, wind and waves, and tidal stream currents. The abundant sea otter population here is a significant bonus.
Learn how to use and interpret weather forecasts, tide and current tables, marine charts and maps, and efficient paddling in flat water, winds and waves, tidal currents and much more such as packing a kayak for an expedition, and how to choose sea kayaking equipment. Skills covered include the BCU 3 star sea kayak syllabus and ACA Coastal Kayak skill levels 1-3. We will use the Kachemak Bay yurt system 3-4 nights so that we can have a shelter for those that wish not to camp and to have a protected classroom for lectures on kayaking topics of interest.
Skills needed: Fundamental kayaking skills, some camping experience, and enthusiasm for learning.
We provide: All instruction, leadership and kayaking equipment (including Gore-tex drysuits), group camping gear, and transportation across Kachemak Bay and back.
You provide: Personal clothing, personal camping gear **, food and cookware, transportation to and from Homer, and enthusiasm for learning sea kayaking.
Itinerary and Provisional trip plan:
Saturday 14 June – 9 AM meeting to introduce the course, talk about equipment, select your gear, and get packed to leave to Kachemak Bay State Park, late afternoon water taxi departure to a yurt in Tutka Bay. Camp or yurt.
Sunday 15 June – Practice and develop strokes and maneuvers and an introduction to assisted and solo sea kayak rescues. Introduce trip planning, navigation and tides and currents. Will not move camp. develop trip plan for Monday 16 June.
Monday 16 June – Pack kayaks and paddle to Haystack Rock yurt in Kachemak Bay State Park, practice and develop navigation, group awareness, and leadership skills. Camp or Yurt, develop trip plan for Tuesday 17 June.
Tuesday 17 June – Pack Kayaks and move to China Poot Bay Yurt site. Unload kayaks and practice additional strokes, maneuvers and rescues in calm water. Camp or Yurt, Develop trip plan for Wednesday 18 June.
Wednesday 18 June – Pack kayaks and paddle from China Poot Bay to Glacier Spit, and open water trip. Camp, and have an evening session for more detailed navigation and trip planning. Develop trip plan for Thursday 19 June.
Thursday 19 June – Morning session on paddling kayaks in tidal stream currents; pack kayaks and paddle from Glacier Spit into Halibut Cove Lagoon to practice paddling sea kayaks in tidal stream currents. We will have a water taxi pickup in late afternoon for the return trip to Homer, around 5 PM.
To see video of paddling in Kachemak Bay check out Kayak Journal 5, available from KayakJournal.com
Trip Summary
When: 14-19 June 2008
Where: Homer, Kachemak Bay State Park, Alaska
Pre-requisites: Fundamental Kayaking Skills, including confident wet exit (contact us if you need to take instruction to get ready, we offer numerous fundamental skills courses).
Reservation: Deposit of 50% and registration form and other documents – use online form or contact us. Balance due 30 days from the start of the trip.
Fees: $795 + sales tax
Registration: Alaska Kayak School (907) 235-2090,P.O. Box 3547, Homer, Alaska 99603. info@alaskakayakschool.com, (online
registration).
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Personal Sea Kayaking Skills Course at Across the Bay Tent & Breakfast in Kasitsna Bay, Alaska.
Skill Level: Novice - Beginner – Intermediate
Alaska Kayak School
June 27-29, 2008
$535/person + tax
Enjoy the hospitality and natural setting of the Across the Bay Tent and Breakfast in Kasitsna Bay, Alaska, and spend 2 days learning and developing your personal sea kayaking skills. Learn and develop knowledge of sea kayaks and equipment, cold-water injury prevention, launching and landing, safe capsizing (wet exits), and effective strokes and maneuvers, rescues and recoveries, and some tripping skills, during 2 glorious days in late June.
Skills needed: This is an ideal course if you’ve never had instruction, but if you have had instruction before, this is an opportunity to refine your skills and learn some new tricks for your “paddler’s tool box”. Come with a friend or loved one, or come as a family. Teens can benefit, any younger may be too young. Please call if you have questions.
We provide: Water taxi transportation from Homer to Kasitsna Bay and back, all kayaking equipment (including breathable dry suits), all instruction, all meals, and 2 nights at the Tent and Breakfast.
You provide: personal clothing and personal effects for a weekend, enthusiasm for learning, and a sleeping bag to use for 2 nights.
Sample itinerary:
Friday 27 June – Late afternoon water taxi to Kasitsna Bay, dinner and an introduction to the course in an evening lecture. Spend the night and ABT&B.
Saturday 28 June – After breakfast, get fitted to kayaks and clothing, equipment show and tell, and practice wet exits and simple strokes and maneuvers. More instruction and practice after lunch in an afternoon skills session. Dinner at ABT&B. Plan a day trip for Sunday 29 June. Stay at tent and breakfast.
Sunday 29 June – Pack and leave on a day trip after the ABT&B breakfast, and learn we travel in the area of Kasitsna Bay. Take a sack lunch, and have lunch away from the lodge, and continue to develop strokes and maneuvers as well as rescues on the day trip. Return to the ABT&B in late afternoon, and return to Homer on the water taxi in late afternoon/early evening.
Course Summary
When: 27-29 June 2008
Where: Across the Bay Tent & Breakfast, Kasitsna Bay, and Alaska
Pre-requisites: Enthusiasm for learning, and a willingness to learn how to capsize safely; good swimming skills important but not essential, and an ability to follow verbal instructions.
Reservation: Deposit of 50% and registration form and other documents – use online form or contact us. Balance due 30 days from the start of the course.
Ages: 13 and up ideal, please call if you have questions.
Fees: $450 + sales tax
Registration: Alaska Kayak School (907) 235-2090,P.O. Box 3547, Homer, Alaska 99603. info@alaskakayakschool.com, (online
registration).
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July 08
Sea Kayak Tripping Course in Kachemak Bay
Skill Level: Beginner – Intermediate
Alaska Kayak School
July 5-8 2008
$479/person + tax
To see video of paddling in Kachemak Bay check out Kayak Journal 5, available from KayakJournal.com
This is a sea kayaking camping course designed to help you become an independent sea kayaker in Alaskan conditions. Develop your personal sea kayak tripping skills by spending 3 nights and 4 days paddling in Kachemak Bay, Alaska. You will be planning the trip, organizing the gear, learning and practicing strokes and maneuvers, safety and rescues, tripping and navigation skills. Do all this by coming on a multi-day sea kayak trip in Kachemak Bay State Park. This is instructional sea kayak trip is a “course” designed to help you practice and learn the skills needed to plan and enjoy sea kayaking trips in Alaska safely. Kachemak Bay is an ideal location to learn sea paddling because of easy access to a scenic and interesting coastline, and for ocean features useful in learning paddling skills: flat water, wind and waves, and tidal stream currents. The abundant sea otter population here is a significant bonus.
Learn how to use and interpret weather forecasts, tide and current tables, marine charts and maps, efficient paddling in flat water, winds and waves, tidal currents and much more, such as packing a kayak for an expedition, and how to choose sea kayaking equipment. Skills covered include the BCU 3 star sea kayak syllabus and ACA Coastal Kayak skill levels 1-3.
Skills needed: Enthusiasm for learning, fundamental kayaking skills, a willingness to paddle and learn, some camping experience, and some swimming ability.
We provide: All instruction and leadership, kayaking equipment (including Gore-tex drysuits), group camping gear, and transportation across Kachemak Bay and back.
You provide: Personal clothing, personal camping gear **, food and cookware, transportation to and from Homer, and enthusiasm for learning sea kayaking. A willingness to capsize is essential.
Itinerary and Provisional trip plan:
Saturday 5 July – 9 AM meeting to introduce the course, talk about equipment, select your gear, introduce trip planning, navigation and tides and currents, and get packed to leave for Kachemak Bay State Park, late afternoon water taxi departure to a beach in Kachemak Bay State Park. Camp at drop off point, or pack boats and paddle before camping.
Sunday 6 July – Break camp early and develop strokes and maneuvers near camp and on the move while paddling up the bay, work on assisted and solo sea kayak rescues, develop trip plan for Monday 7 July. Camp.
Monday 7 July – Pack kayaks and paddle in Kachemak Bay State Park, practice and develop strokes and maneuvers, practice rescues, and learn group awareness and navigation skills. Camp or Yurt, develop trip plan for Tuesday 8 July.
Tuesday 8 July - Pack kayaks and paddle in Kachemak Bay State Park, practice and develop navigation, group awareness, and leadership skills. Return to spit by water taxi in late afternoon.
Trip/Course Summary:
When: 5-8 July 2008
Where: Homer, Kachemak Bay State Park, Alaska
Pre-requisites: Fundamental Sea Kayaking Skills, including confident wet exit (contact us if you need to take instruction to get ready, we offer numerous fundamental skills courses).
Reservation: Deposit of 50% and registration form and other documents – use online form or contact us. Balance due 30 days from the start of the trip.
Fees: $479 + sales tax
The Alaska Kayak School operates in accordance with special use permit requirements of the U.S. Forest Service.
Registration: Alaska Kayak School (907) 235-2090,P.O. Box 3547, Homer, Alaska 99603. info@alaskakayakschool.com, (online
registration).
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Southwestern Prince William Sound Deluxe Expedition - the southwestern Sound
12-19 July 2008
Skill level: Beginner – Intermediate
$2595/person
To see online video of Prince Willliam Sound click here
For full length version of Kings Bay video check out Kayak Journal 5, available from KayakJournal.com
Southwestern Prince William Sound is home to some of Alaska’s best glacier and whale viewing. Knight Island Passage and nearby Icy and Whale bays include some of the best Orca and Humpbacked Whale habitat in the sound, join us on one of our long-standing standard trips, an exploration of southern Prince William Sound by sea kayak.
Goals: To camp and paddle in a remote and scenic wilderness region of southern Prince William Sound, Alaska, in close proximity to a large glacial ice sheet and 2 large tidewater glaciers.
Skills needed: To happily camp and paddle in the rain is key. It’s often necessary to maneuver the kayaks among ice bits and small bergs, so good kayak control skills are important. It is occasionally necessary to paddle in light to moderate winds and seas 2-3 feet (on a really bad day). Surf landings and paddling in fast current and bigger swells not likely. Some of the longer days will consists of 14-16 miles paddling over the course of the day. BCU skills 1-2 star and ACA CK Levels 2-3 will help you enjoy this trip. If you have wilderness camping skills you’ll really enjoy this trip, without some good camping skills you might feel relatively challenged if we have a spell of rainy weather. To get an adequate perspective as to how rainy it can be, recognize that rainfall in the Sound exceeds 150” per year and most of it is rain. We’ve experienced 10” of rain in 24 hours, and 8” in 12 hours before, and probably will again some time. We were baked in the summer sun for 2 solid weeks in August 2001, so if you’re ready for the range and variety of conditions possible, you won’t be disappointed. Don’t forget your sunscreen or rain gear.
Conditions expected: Prince William Sound is an inland sea so the swell from the Gulf of Alaska does not reach this scenic wilderness. Quiet waters and light winds are the norm, drizzle and fog are common, and storms occasional in the heart of summer. We’ll expect rain, winds 10-15 knots and some swell, but little surf and probably not many breaking waves. A few open water crossings are par for the courses, but none are over 4 nautical miles of calm-ish water.
Wildlife: Here is just a short list of wildlife we are likely to encounter: Orca and Humpbacked Whales, Dall Porpoise, Sitka Black-tailed Deer, Black Bear, Harbor Seal, Sea and River otter, Bald Eagle, Marbled Murrelet, Hermit Thrush, Glaucous-winged and Herring gulls have all been seen on trips in this area. Winter Wrens are common in the lush rainforest, the Northern most Temperate rainforest in North America.
Weather: Rainfall in Prince William Sound is among the highest in the region of the Kenai Peninsula, but weather on trips can be mild, sunny and warm. More often than not, drizzle and fog occur during some part of every trip and we plan accordingly. A series of rain tarps and shelters in the camp set up helps cut the edge off any dampness. Hey, without the rain, there wouldn’t be any glaciers to see! . Day temps range from 50's to rare 80's. Night temps 40's and 50's.
Leadership: The Alaska Kayak School is privileged to have the support of Bobbie Gilmore to work her wonders as a cook, consummate guide, and leader on a trip to the “Sound” in mid-summer. There is little that compares to camping in the peaceful comfort of Prince William Sound beaches. The surrounding wilderness landscape is subtle but wild until you come into the presence of one of the areas’ tidewater glaciers or we’re lucky enough to get a visit from one or more Orca or Humpbacked Whales. Tom is a level 4 BCU sea coach and ACA Open water Instructor, has lived, worked and played in the Alaskan bush for 26 years; lucky for you, he’s a recovering wildlife biologist with 20 years of field experience, mostly in Alaska.
Opportunity for skill building: Both Tom and Bobbie are both instructors so, if want to learn more about paddling and build your skills, this is a great chance to hone your performance. Apply and learn strokes and maneuvers, paddling in conditions, rescues, towing, seamanship, navigation and leadership. If you’re a BCU fan, Tom’s a level-4 sea coach, and it’s a nice opportunity to add some goodies to your “toolbox”.
What we provide: Mostly Nigel Dennis and Valley sea kayaks, travel from Whittier to Anchorage and return. Water taxi transport to and from southern Prince William Sound from Whittier, kayaking gear, wonderful meals, and transportation from Anchorage to Whittier and back. Gore-tex dry suit rentals available.
Logistics: Fly to Anchorage International airport and stay in a motel near the airport late on 11 July or come early on the 12th and take a van to Whittier for a night of rest and packing in a quaint B&B. Our trip starts with a water taxi ride to a remote beach in southern Prince William Sound on 12 July. We’ll spend the next several days paddling and camping while exploring complete wilderness in Knight Island Passage, Whale and Icy Bays, Nassau Fjord, Chenega and Tiger Glaciers. A long-ish day trip will take us back to our pick-up spot for the water taxi ride back to Whittier on the last day. Return to Whittier or Anchorage to spend the last night before flying home or continuing your travel in Alaska on Sunday July 20th. See itinerary below.
Itinerary ***
July 12 (day 1) Saturday - Arrive in Anchorage, travel overland to Whittier where we’ll get acquainted over halibut, shrimp n’ chips and spend the night in a local B & B, but get your gear sorted, packed in dry bags and ready to go in the hold of the water taxi the next morning.
July 13 (day 2) Sunday – Board a shuttle boat to southern Prince William Sound with all our gear.
July14 (day 3) Monday – Paddle and camp, or camp and do an evening familiarization paddle.
July 15 (day 4) Tuesday - Paddle and camp near glaciers.
July 16 (day 5) Wednesday – Paddle and camp near glaciers.
July 17 (day 6) Thursday – Paddle and camp near glaciers.
July 18 (day 7) Friday – All day paddle to our pick up spot and camp.
July 19 (day 8) – Saturday Water Taxi pick up, trip to Whittier and a “disorientation dinner” out of the elements, spend the night at the B&B in Whittier.
July 20 Sunday (day 9) — Ground transportation leaving for Anchorage mid-morning; catch flight out from Anchorage afternoon or evening to wherever you may be going, or continued travel in Alaska.
***Travel days are “hard” all else may change to adapt to weather and prevailing conditions.
Reservations are held with a deposit of 50% deposit, the balance is due at 30 days prior to departure, please email for our refund policy.
Registration: Alaska Kayak School (907) 235-2090,P.O. Box 3547, Homer, Alaska 99603. info@alaskakayakschool.com, (online
registration).
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Sea Kayak Tripping Course in Kachemak Bay
Skill Level: Beginner – Intermediate
Alaska Kayak School
25-29 2008, 4-night / 5-day
$625/person + tax
To see video of paddling in Kachemak Bay check out Kayak Journal 5, available from KayakJournal.com
This is a sea kayaking camping course designed to help you become an independent sea kayaker in Alaskan conditions. Develop your personal sea kayak tripping skills by spending 3 nights and 4 days paddling in Kachemak Bay, Alaska. You will be planning the trip, organizing the gear, learning and practicing strokes and maneuvers, safety and rescues, tripping and navigation skills. Do all this by coming on a multi-day sea kayak trip in Kachemak Bay State Park. This is instructional sea kayak trip is a “course” designed to help you practice and learn the skills needed to plan and enjoy sea kayaking trips in Alaska safely. Kachemak Bay is an ideal location to learn sea paddling because of easy access to a scenic and interesting coastline, and for ocean features useful in learning paddling skills: flat water, wind and waves, and tidal stream currents. The abundant sea otter population here is a significant bonus.
Learn how to use and interpret weather forecasts, tide and current tables, marine charts and maps, efficient paddling in flat water, winds and waves, tidal currents and much more such as packing a kayak for an expedition, and how to choose sea kayaking equipment. Skills covered include the BCU 3 star sea kayak syllabus and ACA Coastal Kayak skill levels 1-3 (4).
Skills needed: Fundamental kayaking skills, a willingness to paddle and learn, some camping experience, and enthusiasm.
We provide: All instruction, leadership and kayaking equipment (including Gore-tex drysuits), group camping gear, and transportation across Kachemak Bay and back.
You provide: Personal clothing, personal camping gear **, food and cookware, transportation to and from Homer, and enthusiasm for learning sea kayaking.
Itinerary and Provisional trip plan:
Saturday 25 July – 9 AM meeting to introduce the course, talk about equipment, select your gear, Introduce trip planning, navigation and tides and currents, and get packed to leave to Kachemak Bay State Park, late afternoon water taxi departure to a beach in Kachemak Bay State Park. Camp or pack boats and paddle before camping.
Sunday 26 July – Break camp early and develop strokes and maneuvers near camp and on the move while paddling up the bay, work on assisted and solo sea kayak rescues, develop trip plan for Monday 27 July.
Monday 27 July – Pack kayaks and paddle in Kachemak Bay State Park, practice and develop navigation, group awareness, and leadership skills. Camp or Yurt, develop trip plan for Tuesday 28 July.
Tuesday 28 July – Pack kayaks and paddle in Kachemak Bay State Park, practice and develop navigation, group awareness, and leadership skills. Camp or Yurt, develop trip plan for Tuesday 29 July.
Tuesday 29 July – Pack kayaks and paddle in Kachemak Bay State Park, practice and develop navigation, group awareness, and leadership skills. Pick up in Halibut Cove Lagoon
Trip Summary
When: 25-29 July 2008
Where: Homer, Kachemak Bay State Park, Alaska
Pre-requisites: Fundamental Kayaking Skills, including confident wet exit (contact us if you need to take instruction to get ready, we offer numerous fundamental skills courses).
Reservation: Deposit of 50% and registration form and other documents – use online form or contact us. Balance due 30 days from the start of the trip.
Fees: $625 + sales tax
Registration: Alaska Kayak School (907) 235-2090,P.O. Box 3547, Homer, Alaska 99603. info@alaskakayakschool.com, (online
registration).
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August 08
Shuyak Island 4 star plus Invitational Expedition
4-14 August 2008
Alaska Kayak School, Homer
Cost: $2040 including all taxes
Exposure, remoteness, tidal streams, tidal races, rock gardens, wildlife and stunning scenery punctuate this unique trip for BCU/ACA four star/level 4/open water paddlers that can paddle in swell, wind and current. Great trip for experienced and skilled paddlers to enjoy and explore remote exposed coastlines in a wilderness setting. The stunning scenery of Shuyak Island State Park, adjacent Afognak Island, and the Aleutian Mountains’ back drop across Shelikof Strait is a little more grandeur than most humans can handle – throw in the Brown Bear factor and you’ve got a genuine adventure on your hands.
The goals: The main goals of the journey include: to circumnavigate Shuyak Island, a distance of roughly 50 nautical miles (as the crow flies), and a side trip to Devil’s Inlet on adjacent Afognak Island. We will explore tidal races, search for and hopefully view and photograph Brown Bears, paddle in rock gardens, and view whales and scenery. In addition we’ll camp on remote scenic beaches, and hope to stay in homey state park cabins a few nights. If you’re a serious student of open water paddling skills and love paddling sea kayaks in waves, open water, fast tidal streams, and have good wilderness camping skills, you are the perfect paddler for this fun Alaskan adventure.
Conditions expected: We will probably be paddling in the rain during windy conditions (winds exceeding force 4), in rough water with swell 6-8’ or more with chop, and in tidal streams with current speeds exceeding 5 knots. We will paddle and play in big rock gardens and investigate the dynamics of a prominent tidal race system.
Skills Needed: If you are comfortable paddling in advanced conditions and camping in remote scenic wilderness areas this is a trip you should consider. BCU 4 star assessment, ACA CK level 4, or advanced open water paddling skills and wilderness camping skills will be put to good use on this fun adventure. This is the trip you’ve been training for all these years.
If you don't have skills and experience for paddling in rough water on multi-day trips, or have good navigation and rescue skills, or don't have a reliable Eskimo roll, consider one of our other trips instead, such as Kenai Fiords 14-21 June 2008, or the Prince William Sound trip12-19 July 2008, or Kings Bay trip in early June 2008, we also do custom programs, please tell us what you have in mind and we’ll try to be helpful. Check our calendar for more offerings.
Please feel free to contact us so we can suggest training opportunities. We have connections to talented and highly qualified instructors World wide, and can help you find the training and assessment opportunities you need to consider this trip as an option in the future. Yes, we will offer it again. Every 2 years seems to be the pattern.
Weather: Daytime temperatures of 50º-70ºF, and night temps 40º-50ºF would be expected. Rain would be in the forecast, but sunny warm weather also possible. Prepare for a wide range of conditions and you’ll not be disappointed. Bugs may be a factor at some campsites, so bug jackets or head nets are a good plan.
Expedition support included: Water taxi to and from Shyuak Island, an 85 mile open water trip across the Gulf of Alaska, lodging and transportation in Homer, kayak rental, bus transport to and from Homer (or credit towards your flights from Anch-Homer), expedition leadership, a bit of group gear, plus paddling gear as needed (paddles, pfds, etc.).
What is not included? Personal paddling gear, camping gear, dry bags, tents, sleeping bags, personal clothing, cooking equipment, etc. If there is something you “need”, we probably have it and could provide it, either free or for a fee, so please ask. We have tents, dry suits, dry bags, etc.
Food is not included. The trip’s fees do not include meals in Homer, or meals on the trip. See below.
Logistics and Kayaks: This is a trip where you will do your own food and bring as much of your own gear as possible, we’ll provide the kayaks, flares, bear spray and other items you can’t easily fly with as well as some group items. Please contact us for gear lists if you’re serious about coming along on this adventure. We’ll consider a “shared dinners” arrangement in which food groups of 2-3 people take turns making groups dinners, but we’d all do our own breakfasts and lunches. We’ll decide as the group forms up.
Travel to and from Homer: Fly to Anchorage International Airport early on 3 August or late on 2 August. Van trip or fly to Homer on 3 August to arrive in mid afternoon, you will stay at a cozy B&B with a view of Kachemak Bay. We will return to Homer on 14 August, and spend the night in the B&B before you can return home, or so you can continue travel in Alaska. We can help with local travel arrangements as needed.
Kayaks available: NDK Explorer, Explorer HV and Explorer LV, Valley Aquanaut, HV Aquanaut, Nordkapp, and Kajaksport Viviane Expedition.
Leadership: Level 4 BCU sea coach (A1*) with 26 summers’ experience in Alaska, and other Alaskan guide types with BCU coach and ACA instructor training and assessments.
Itinerary for Shuyak Island Expedition 2008**
3 August (Sunday) – travel to Homer and arrive in mid-late afternoon, cozy B&B for the night.
4 August (Monday) – day in Homer sorting gear and packing dry bags, last minute food shopping and load kayaks on water taxi in the evening, another night at the B&B.
5 August (Tuesday) – early morning departure on ocean going water taxi 85 miles across the Gulf of Alaska to Shuyak Island, camp of stay in state park cabin.
6-13 August (Wednesday-Wednesday) Paddle and camp (or state park cabin) circumnavigate Shuyak, visit Afognak, and return to our pick up spot, hope for a state park cabin on our last night.
14 August (Thursday) water taxi back to Homer from Shuyak, back to B&B. and goodbye dinner.
15 August (Friday) – travel back to Anchorage to make connecting flights.
** - This is the big picture, travel dates are “hard dates” all else is flexible and may change slightly.
Trip Summary:
When: 4-14 August 2008
Where: Anchorage, Homer, Shuyak Island State Park.
Pre-requisites: BCU 4 star assessment or ACA level 4 CK assessment, or equivalent skills (contact us for details).
Reservation: deposit of 50% and registration form and other documents – use online form or contact us. Balance due 30 days from the start of the trip.
Fees: $1897 + 7.5% sales tax = $2040
Registration: Alaska Kayak School (907) 235-2090,P.O. Box 3547, Homer, Alaska 99603. info@alaskakayakschool.com, (online
registration).
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Sea Kayak Tripping Course in Kachemak Bay
Skill Level: Beginner – Intermediate
Alaska Kayak School
22-26 August 2008, 4-night / 5-day
$625/person + tax
To see video of paddling in Kachemak Bay check out Kayak Journal 5, available from KayakJournal.com
This is a sea kayaking camping course designed to help you become an independent sea kayaker in Alaskan conditions. Develop your personal sea kayak tripping skills by spending 3 nights and 4 days paddling in Kachemak Bay, Alaska. You will be planning the trip, organizing the gear, learning and practicing strokes and maneuvers, safety and rescues, tripping and navigation skills. Do all this by coming on a multi-day sea kayak trip in Kachemak Bay State Park. This is instructional sea kayak trip is a “course” designed to help you practice and learn the skills needed to plan and enjoy sea kayaking trips in Alaska safely. Kachemak Bay is an ideal location to learn sea paddling because of easy access to a scenic and interesting coastline, and for ocean features useful in learning paddling skills: flat water, wind and waves, and tidal stream currents. The abundant sea otter population here is a significant bonus.
Learn how to use and interpret weather forecasts, tide and current tables, marine charts and maps, and efficient paddling in flat water, winds and waves, tidal currents and much more such as packing a kayak for an expedition, and how to choose sea kayaking equipment. Skills covered include the BCU 3 star sea kayak syllabus and ACA Coastal Kayak skill levels 1-3 (4).
Skills needed: Fundamental sea kayaking skills, a willingness to paddle and learn, some camping experience, and enthusiasm.
We provide: All instruction, leadership and kayaking equipment (including Gore-tex drysuits), group camping gear, and transportation across Kachemak Bay and back.
You provide: Personal clothing, personal camping gear **, food and cookware, transportation to and from Homer, and enthusiasm for learning sea kayaking.
Itinerary and Provisional trip plan:
Friday 22 August – 9 AM meeting to introduce the course, talk about equipment, select your gear, Introduce trip planning, navigation and tides and currents, and get packed to leave to Kachemak Bay State Park, late afternoon water taxi departure to a beach in Kachemak Bay State Park. Camp or pack boats and paddle before camping.
Saturday 23 August – Break camp early and develop strokes and maneuvers near camp and on the move while paddling up the bay, work on assisted and solo sea kayak rescues, develop trip plan for Monday 27 July.
Sunday 24 August – Pack kayaks and paddle in Kachemak Bay State Park, practice and develop navigation, group awareness, and leadership skills. Camp or Yurt, develop trip plan for Tuesday 28 July.
Monday 25 August – Pack kayaks and paddle in Kachemak Bay State Park, practice and develop navigation, group awareness, and leadership skills. Camp or Yurt, develop trip plan for Tuesday 29 July.
Tuesday 26 August – Pack kayaks and paddle in Kachemak Bay State Park, practice and develop navigation, group awareness, and leadership skills. Pick up in Halibut Cove Lagoon
Trip Summary
When: 22-26 August 2008
Where: Homer, Kachemak Bay State Park, Alaska
Pre-requisites: Fundamental Kayaking Skills, including confident wet exit (contact us if you need to take instruction to get ready, we offer numerous fundamental skills courses).
Reservation: Deposit of 50% and registration form and other documents – use online form or contact us. Balance due 30 days from the start of the trip/course.
Fees: $625 + sales tax
Registration: Alaska Kayak School (907) 235-2090,P.O. Box 3547, Homer, Alaska 99603. info@alaskakayakschool.com, (online
registration).
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* Reservations policy: We consider a reservation with payment and a completed registration form to be final. If you must cancel, and you can find a replacement student, you can receive a full refund; otherwise we will transfer your fees to a program on a different date. Any cancellations after the Friday before a program can receive no refund, your best bet is to sell your spot to a friend. Feel free to contact us for more details , (907) 235-2090.
