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Paddle Canada Level 2
Skills

Leadership, incident management, open-water rescue, intro to rolling,  navigation, low and high brace turns

Local business since 1991

Safety equipment included

Experienced local instructors

Prerequisite
Paddle Canada L1 or Equivalent

Duration
5 Days

Various locations in and around the Comox Valley

Price
$595

Dates

About This Lesson

Level 2 Skills builds on the fundamentals from Level 1, helping kayakers develop the skills and confidence needed for sea kayaking in moderate conditions. It focuses on navigating semi-exposed shorelines with accessible landing spots and prepares paddlers for overnight trips. The course covers essential techniques such as refining the forward stroke, bracing for stability, maneuvering in waves and currents, performing rescues and towing, as well as understanding navigation and weather patterns.

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Prerequisites

Experience Required

Kayakers who have been on

 

1. At least 3, one-day-long kayaking trips in Level-1 conditions in different locations

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2. Completed their Paddle Canada Level 1 Skills which entails:

 

  • Launching and landing

  • Forward and reverse strokes

  • Stopping, sweep strokes, and draw strokes

  • Low brace, stern rudder, and edge control

  • Assisted and unassisted re-entry

  • Towing and on-water communication

  • Route planning and basic navigation

  • Weather interpretation and sea state assessment

  • Risk assessment and mitigation

  • Cold-water issues and sun safety

  • Environmental awareness and kayaking etiquette

  • Loading and tieing down kayak

  • Equipment care

  • Planning A Kayaking Journey

  • Community resources

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Other Certifications

  • Wilderness first aid (16 hours) with CPR strongly recommended.
  • ​VHF radio operator certificate recommended

What You’ll Learn

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Paddling Skills

  • Launching and landing

  • Forward stroke

  • Turning strokes

  • Sweep strokes

  • Low and high brace turns

  • Bow rudders

  • Low and high brace

  •  Draws

  • Draw stroke

  • Sculling draw

  • Hanging draw

  • Stern draw and stern pry

  • Paddling in rough water

Re-entry Skills

  • Unassisted re-entry

  • Assisted re-entry

  • All-in re-entry

  • Bow rescue

  • Re-entry exercises or scenarios

  • Introduction to rolling

  • Towing

Knowledge

  • Paddling equipment

  • Introduction to tides and currents

  • Wilderness navigation techniques

  • Chart/map work

  • Navigation techniques

  • Nautical charts and topographic maps

  • Other navigation tools or activities

  • Weather interpretation and basic forecasting

  • Heat/cold issues

  • Emergency overnight

  • Leadership and decision making

  • Risk assessment, incident management and evacuation options

  • Kayak knots and rope work

  • Transport Canada collision regulations

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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.

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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

  • Helmet

  • Nose plug

  • Any personal kayaking gear

  • Drysuit/wetsuit

Before You Arrive

  • Review your booking details

  • Arrive early for check-in

  • Complete the required waiver

  • 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.

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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 local waterways and instructors who understand Vancouver Island paddling conditions.

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

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Paddle Canada Level 2 Skills FAQs

Do I need previous kayaking experience?

Yes, the prerequisite is having taken the level 1 or equivalent experience and at least 3, one-day-long kayaking trips in Level-1 conditions in different locations

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 a variety of paddling skills, re-entry skills and theory.

Where does the lesson take place?

Paddle Canada Level 2 Skills takes place all around the Comox Valley and surrounding area, depending on weather.

Comox Valley Kayaks
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