QUESTIONS ABOUT KAYAKING?
We have prepared a few answers to questions we get asked a lot to help you prepare for your kayak tour, rental or course.
Kayak Safety
There are inherent dangers with water based activities but all steps are taken to ensure you have a safe and enjoyable kayak trip.
Trip Preparation
Dressing appropriately is important for kayak tours, rentals or courses. Our kayak tours include all paddling gear, a friendly guide and snack/water.
While Kayaking
There's nothing quite like being out on the water in a kayak, no matter if you take a kayak course to improve your skills or take a kayak tour for the first time.
Kayak Safety
I have never been kayaking before. Is that OK?
Absolutely. Your guide will give you lots of help and the kayak tour begins with a training component.
We have a brief but thorough mini kayak lesson at the beginning of each tour. We adjust your kayak to fit you comfortably and orient you how to use the rudders. We monitor the tides and weather patterns for optimizing your tour experience. Our kayaks are very stable and comfortable.
You also have the option to book an introductory kayak course before your first trip.
Are there any size restrictions?
The recommended maximum paddler weight for one of our Current Design Storm kayaks is 240 lbs (109 kg). If you are heavier than this you will find one of our double kayaks more stable. Feel free to check with us if you have questions about weight and height recommendations.
What kind of training do your kayak guides have?
Our guides are certified by Paddle Canada National Sea Kayak Program. They also have recent CPR and Wilderness First Aid training.
How many people on each kayak tour?
For kayak tours the maximum number of guests is 8. Often times, it will only be your group and the guide. Our kayak courses have a maximum number of 6 people, or even 2 for surfski lessons.
What's the minimum age to go kayaking?
It depends on when your child comfortable sitting by themselves in the front cockpit of a double kayak. Usually, that’s around 4-5 years old. For safety reasons, we do not allow kids sitting on the lap of their parents.
Preparation for Kayak Tours, Rentals & Courses
What do I need to bring?
Depending on the weather you should bring a hat, sunscreen, sunglasses. And always a camera! We provide small drybags for snacks and miscellaneous items and camera drybags for you.
If you are going out afterwards you may want to bring a change of clothes (or at least pants).
What should I wear?
You will get drops of water from paddling on you – fast drying athletic or merino wool shirts are best but not required.
If you have them watershoes are a good idea. Otherwise sandals or any shoes that can get wet (no hiking boots or heels!).
What if I need to cancel?
Please give us as much notice as possible, so that we can try and fill your spot. We will not issue refunds for cancellations of less than 48 hours notice.
While Kayaking
Can I take photos?
Absolutely. There will be plenty of time for snaps along the way. There is a small zip pocket in the front of the life jacket that can hold a phone or small camera and we provide small camera drybags.
Will I get wet?
Generally no, you will not get wet. If it is windy enough to produce small waves or if you are unfortunate enough to get a large boat wake, then a little water may drip through the kayak skirt. It is common to have the thighs or bottom get a bit wet due to these causes.
What do I need to know beforehand
Before we go on the water you’ll have a mini lesson at the beach. We’ll show you the equipment and depending on your experience introduce you to basic kayaking and safety techniques.