Lessons
Whether you’re interested in trying out a sport for the first time or are looking to improve your skills in one you’re already involved in, Comox Valley Kayaks offers various classes for every level of experience. Join any of our courses to develop your skillset in a professional and positive environment, and start playing today.
*Courtenay Rec registration opens March 9th, 2026 for Spring programs and for courses starting in Late May, registration opens April 27, 2026.
Intro to Kayaking
$98
Introduction to Kayaking is the perfect starting point for your paddling journey. We begin with the fundamentals of boats and gear, then head onto the water to practice essential kayaking strokes. Throughout the session, we focus on building confidence, control, and enjoyment on the water. Whether we’re exploring calm stretches or venturing a bit farther from shore, you’ll gain the skills you need to paddle safely and have fun wherever your adventure takes you.​
Intro to Tandem Canoeing on the Sayward Route
$180
This course is for beginners looking to get started with tandem canoeing. You will learn basic paddling strokes, portaging skills, and water rescue techniques. You will also learn local knowledge about the Sayward Canoe Route, and paddle a section of the route. You will be paddling in a tandem canoe, but you do not need a partner to register.
Day 1 will cover basic strokes, wet exit, and re-entry techniques. Day 2 will involve paddling and portaging a section of the Sayward Canoe Route. A canoe and all Transport Canada required padding equipment is provided. You are required to arrange your own food and overnight accommodation.
Intro to SUP
$68 / 1 hr
Want to try a new adventure that gets you on the water with minimal gear? Our Intro to SUP lesson will teach you about the sport of Stand Up Paddleboarding. Typical skills covered include strokes, techniques to improve your balance, and how to get back on the board, however; topics can vary based on your experience level and preferences. This lesson is taught right from our location at Comox Valley Kayaks - we utilize the safety of the Courtenay Marina to build our confidence before heading out into the river.
Paddle Canada Sea Kayak Level-1 Skills
$340
Sea Kayak Level-1 Skills is a two-day course that moves participants beyond flatwater kayaking and into the sport of sea kayaking.
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The course is conducted in slightly rougher water than Basic Kayak, aiming to develop the paddler’s comfort. There is a strong focus on re-entry techniques as well as the skills required to safely plan and execute a day trip with friends (for example, navigation & route planning, weather interpretation, proper clothing/gear.)
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Upon successful completion of the course, the student will be able to confidently paddle in class-1 conditions in the company of one or more paddlers with similar skills or knowledge. The paddler should be self-reliant yet an asset to the group and an active participant, willing and able to assist others if they need assistance.
Kayak Rescue - At The Pool
$98
Our rescue class takes place in the comfort of the Courtenay & District Memorial Outdoor pool. In this lesson we learn how to fall out of our boat and help each other get back in. The skills taught are wet exits and tandem rescues, and if there's time we play with types of solo rescues.
Kayak Rescues + Edging & Bracing
$98
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.
Kayak Rolling Clinic
75 min session
$68
In this clinic, you’ll learn the basic mechanics of rolling a kayak, building the confidence to roll in calm, sheltered waters. By the end, you’ll either be able to cofidently roll your kayak or have learned knowledge and exercises to continue practising and working towards mastering the skill.
Paddle Canada Sea Kayak Level-2 Skills
$595
Building on the skills developed in Level-1, Level-2 provides paddlers with the intermediate skills they need to go sea kayaking in class-2 conditions along semi-exposed shoreline with a possible overnight bivvy.
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Leadership, incident management, open-water rescue, self-care and navigation are core parts of the curriculum.
Virtual Trip Planning Sessions
$17
Join canoe instructor Juliane Bell for a comprehensive virtual session on planning your canoe trip to Sayward or Qathet (formerly Powell River Forest)! Learn what to expect, essential equipment to pack, and key skills to prepare for the journey. The session wraps up with a Q&A, so bring your questions!
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Senior Tour Tuesday
$78
Discover the joy of paddling and explore the waterways of the Comox Valley with our Senior Tour Tuesday! Join a friendly group of seniors, aged 60+ as we embark on an adventure to learn the basics of paddling. Led by two certified instructors/kayak guides, you'll receive guidance and support every step of the way. Suitable for beginner paddlers.
Teen Camp - Paddle Canada
$295
This camp focuses on foundational skills and knowledge, preparing students for short paddling excursions in calm, sheltered waters. By the end, participants will have the confidence to paddle safely in calm conditions with peers of similar abilities. Teens will have the option to leave this camp with Paddle Canada Basic Sea Kayak Skills certification, the first step in the Paddle Canada Sea Kayak skills progression.
Ages 13-16.
Women on the Water Series
Our women’s paddling courses are designed to meet you where you’re at, whether you’re just getting started or ready to build on existing skills. Learn and refine essential strokes, rescue techniques, navigation, weather awareness, and trip-planning skills in a supportive, encouraging environment. Optional guided day trips offer a chance to practice what you’ve learned in real-world conditions while connecting with other paddlers and enjoying time on the water.
Confidence Building Session
$55
Have you taken a lesson but still feel unsure about paddling on your own or leading a group? These sessions are designed to boost your confidence! With no structured lesson, you'll have the opportunity to practice your paddling skills while receiving personalized feedback and guidance from a certified instructor.
Custom Lesson
Starting at $68 / 1 hr
Looking for personalized instruction that fits your goals, schedule, and experience level? Our custom kayaking lessons are tailored to you—whether you’re brand new to paddling, want to refine specific skills, or are building confidence for independent trips. Work one-on-one to focus on what matters most to you, at a pace that feels comfortable and supportive. Ideal for beginners, skill refreshers, or targeted coaching.
