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Rescue Photo

Skill Level
Intermediate

Duration
2.5 hours

Location
Comox Lake / CVK

Price
$98

Intro

About This Lesson

This kayak rescue class builds confidence and essential safety skills for handling capsizes and challenging conditions. You’ll practice self-rescue and assisted rescues like wet exits, re-entries, T-rescues, and paddle float rescues, while also covering communication and risk management. We’ll reinforce key strokes from Intro to Kayaking and add some edging and bracing to improve manoeuvrability and control. This hands-on course is ideal for paddlers looking to feel more capable and prepared on the water.

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Who This Lesson Is For

Day Paddlers

People who kayak away from an easy exit to safety. If you paddle for a few hours at a time and can't see an easy path back to safety within swimming distance this is for you.

Nervous Folks

Often, people are a little apprehensive about this class, but this is the best and safest place to go into the water. Your PFD and gravity will do the trick to help you fall out of your boat and pop up on the surface. We will do our best to ease your fears and keep you smiling and laughing. It is a lot of fun.

Future Skill Builders

A good first step before progressing into longer day trips, Paddle Canada courses and multi-day trips.

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What You’ll Learn

This kayak rescue class builds skills and essential safety for handling capsizes and challenging conditions.

You will learn:

  • Edging for efficiency

  • Bracing in case of big waves

  • Buddy rescues

  • Self-rescues with or without a paddle float

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Learn With Experienced Local Instructors

Comox Valley Kayaks has been serving Vancouver Island paddlers since 1991. Lessons are led by instructors and guides who paddle, trip, teach, and support the local paddling community.

This local experience helps new paddlers understand not only how to move a kayak, but how to make better decisions around gear, weather, water conditions, and safe progression.

Doug

What’s Included

Included

  • Kayak

  • Paddle

  • PFD

  • Required safety equipment

  • Beginner kayaking instruction

What to Bring

  • Clothing suitable for the weather

  • Water bottle

  • Change of clothes

  • Snacks if needed

  • Any personal medication

Before You Arrive

  • Complete the waiver in your confirmation email

  • Review your booking details

  • Arrive early for check-in

  • Come ready to get on the water

Safety, Equipment & Instruction Standards

Safety is built into the lesson from the start, with appropriate paddling equipment, instructor guidance, and practical awareness of local water conditions.

Equipment Provided

Kayak, paddle, PFD, and required paddling safety equipment are included for the lesson.

Instructor Guidance

You’ll receive clear instruction and feedback while practising basic strokes, boat control, and comfort on the water.

Local Water Awareness

Instruction is shaped by real Comox Valley paddling conditions, including weather, water temperature, and safe decision-making.

​Your Paddling Progression

Start your paddling journey with a beginner-friendly kayaking lesson focused on boat control, essential strokes, confidence, and safety on the water.

Intro to Kayaking

Confidence Building

Kayak Rescue

Paddle Canada Level 1

Level 2 Skills

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Why Learn Kayaking in the Comox Valley?

The Comox Valley offers a practical learning environment for new paddlers, with access to calm local waterways and instructors who understand Vancouver Island paddling conditions.

Learning locally helps you build skills that apply beyond the lesson, including confidence with gear, basic safety, weather awareness, and choosing appropriate next steps.

Rescue Photo

Kayak Rescues + Edging and Bracing FAQs

Do I need previous self-rescue or buddy rescue experience?

No. This lesson is designed for beginners and people who are just starting their paddling journey.

Is kayaking equipment included?

Yes. Kayak, paddle, PFD, and required paddling safety equipment are included for the lesson.

What will I learn in this lesson?

You’ll learn edging for efficiency, bracing in case of big waves, buddy rescues and self-rescues.

Is this a good step before Paddle Canada courses?

Yes. This lesson is a helpful starting point before moving into Paddle Canada Sea Kayak Level 1.

Where does the lesson take place?

Edging and Bracing may take place at Comox Lake or elsewhere in the Comox Valley, depending on tide height.

Comox Valley Kayaks
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