Essential Ocean Theory
& Safety Sessions
Join CVK kayaking instructor Sarah Rosen for our ocean paddling theory sessions. If you've ever wondered what steps to take before any paddling trip to ensure you and your fellow paddlers stay safe, this course is the perfect place to start. Welcome!
Local business since 1991
Skill Level
Beginner-Intermediate
Duration
2.5 hours
Location
Comox Valley Kayaks
Price
$52 per session
Who This Lesson Is For
Beginner Paddlers
Perfect for people who are new to kayaking and want a supportive and comprehensive introduction to marine safety before paddling on their own.
Spooked Paddlers
If you've ever got caught in bad weather or big seas unexpectedly and didn't understand why, this course is for you!
Future Trip Leaders
This course covers essential safety concepts that are prerequisites for any on-ocean travel.
What to Bring:
Required:
-
Pen/pencil
-
Notebook
-
Camp chair (to sit in for the duration of class)
Want to purchase a chart, chart case, or sighting compass to use for this course? Check out our online store to reserve yours today!
Optional/suggested:
-
Cell phone with internet connection capability (if you have one)
-
Handheld Marine VHF radio (if you have one, and a license to use it)
-
Baynes Sound Chart (#3527), if you have one, and chart case
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Handheld Sighting compass
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Calculator (if phone doesn’t have one)
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Snacks/water
Prepare:
Your ideal/regular paddling trip info! E.g., charts, maps, tide/current tables, etc. (For example, if you always launch from Union Bay and paddle over to Denman and back, write down everything you regularly do to prepare for that trip. OR, if you’re planning a trip in future, bring the information you’re gathering to plan for it)
What You’ll Learn
Taken together, these sessions will cover
Weather:
● Where to find weather information
● How to interpret that information
● How to read weather in the sky
● Decision-making based on weather observations
Charts:
● Maps vs charts
● Interpreting chart symbols
● Position determination ("where am I?")
● Chart interpretation and decision-making
● Chart folding techniques
Tides:
● Where to get & how to interpret tide information
● Tide calculations and decision-making
● Wind and tide interactions
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.
Sarah Rosen comes from a family of kayak guides and
has worked with over 700 clients on day trips and expeditions on the BC coast. She spent 5 years working oceanographic research contracts for DFO alongside her guiding work, and is excited to share her ocean nerdiness and marine safety consciousness with you!
FAQ: Essential Ocean Theory & Safety Sessions
Where will the sessions take place?
Both session will be held at Comox Valley Kayaks & Canoes (2020 Cliffe Ave.). Prepare to be partially outdoors, depending on the weather. Bring your own chairs please.
How do I know which session is right for me?
We reccomend both. If you have a question about the content, please email lessonstours@comoxvalleykayaks.com
Will these sessions help me on day trips and multi-day expeditions?
Yes, these topics are vital for ocean paddling safety and enjoyability.
Are these sessions a good idea if I paddle with the Paddler's Club?
These sessions are well-suited for any beginner to intermediate paddler. If you're looking to grow towards being a trip leader/planner, weather, chart, and tide knowledge is essential!
