Course Description:
This 7 day Level 4 Skills program provides skills and knowledge for multi-day touring on Class 4 waters, which includes surf, currents, winds, limited landing options, and limited access and communication. In order to ensure all challenges are addressed, the course is divide between the fast moving currents of Quadra Island and the surf swept beaches of the West Coast. This best allows us to take advantage of the diversity of paddling on Vancouver Island as well as challenge our participants to the fullest. Level 4 Skills pushes you to integrate all your paddling skills in dynamic and challenging waters. There are specific lessons, yet we also take advantage of conditions as they arise.
The first 3 days are based out of the beautiful and convenient Discovery Island Lodge. Surge Narrows, where we tackle the currents component of the program, is a 15 minute paddle from the lodge. Each day will be divided between skills development and playing in the currents.
The second half of the course is spent camping out on the beautiful surf swept beaches of the West Coast. We drive North and West from Quadra Island to Fair Harbour where we spend 5 days paddling out and around Rugged Point and down to Zeballos. The A to B format provides logistical and route planning challenges, while open coast of Vancouver Island provides a higher level of exposure to challenging weather, sea state, and terrain. With these two locations together, we have a fantastic Level 4 playground
This course is designed for:
- Intermediate recreational kayakers wishing to increase their knowledge, skills and understanding of kayak touring to include open water touring; and,
- Kayakers continuing on to challenge the Paddle Canada Level 3 Instructor Award and other higher level awards including Instructor Trainer.
The course requires your full attention and commitment. You will challenge your boat handling skills and knowledge in a peer-to-peer instructional setting. The instructors assume you have extensive previous experience including overnight trips in Class 2 and 3 waters, rolling training, assisted and self-rescue practice, experience towing, piloting skills, and weather interpretation practice. If you are unsure of your ability to take this course, please call us to discuss your concerns.
Cost:
- 7 days - $1150 (does not include kayak or any gear)
- 7 days - $1399 (includes kayak)
Prerequisites:
- Paddle Canada Level 3 Sea Kayaking Skills
- Considerable touring experience and an ability to role consistently is essential
- Current wilderness first aid (36 hours or greater) with CPR Level C
- Marine VHF Radio Operators License is recommended.
Certification:
- Paddle Canada Level Four Sea Kayaking Skills
Next Step:
2012 Locations and Dates
- Quadra Island and the West Coast {7days} - April 21 - 27
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