Women On the Water
Intro Series
Our women’s intro series is designed to meet you where you’re at, whether you’re just getting started or ready to build on existing skills. Learn wet exits, assisted re-entries, forward and reverse strokes, stopping, Forward and reverse sweep strokes, pivots, the draw stroke, low brace, edging, navigation, injury prevention and more. This course follows the Paddle Canada Basic curriculum.
Local business since 1991
Skill Level
Beginner
Duration
6 Hours
(over three weeks)
Location
Comox Lake / CVK
Price
$160
About This Lesson
Build confidence on the water with Women On the Water: Intro. Although it is not a certification series, WOW: Intro follows the Paddle Canada Basic Sea Kayak Skills curriculum. Designed for new and developing paddlers, this hands-on course teaches essential paddling techniques, safety skills, and rescue methods in a fun, supportive environment.
Whether you're looking to feel more comfortable exploring the coastline or gearing up for the Next Step/Level 1, this is a great foundation.
Who This Lesson Is For
First-Time Kayakers
Perfect for people who are new to kayaking and want a safe, supportive introduction before paddling on their own.
Nervous Beginners
Ideal if you want to feel more comfortable with the boat, paddle, gear, edging and paddling strokes to move your boat on the water.
Future Skill Builders
A good first step before progressing on to Paddle Canada Level 1.
What You’ll Learn
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Efficient forward, reverse, and stopping strokes
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Turning and maneuvering techniques
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Edging and balance
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Launching and landing safely
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Wet exits
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Assisted rescues
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Basic self-rescue techniques
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Equipment selection and fitting
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Safety equipment
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.
Before You Arrive
Please complete the liability waiver in your confirmation email and arrive 10 to 15 minutes early so you have time to park and get organized.
Meeting locations may vary throughout the course depending on conditions. This allows the course to stay appropriate for the group while giving participants exposure to a variety of local paddling environments.
Check your course email before arriving at the confirmed meeting location for any final instructions.
What’s Included
Included
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Kayak
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Paddle
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PFD
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Required safety equipment
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Beginner kayaking instruction
What to Wear
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Quick-dry clothing
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No jeans or cotton
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Weather-appropriate layers
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Water shoes or secure sandals with traction
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A light jacket for cooler weather
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Wetsuits for the rescue portion (we have limited sizes to borrow or you can rent a farmer style from pacific pro dive)
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Nose plugs for the rescue portion (we may have some you can borrow)
What to Bring
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Hat
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Sunscreen
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Water bottle
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Change of clothes for after class
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Your own lifejacket, if you have one and prefer the fit
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.
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.
Learning locally helps you build skills that apply beyond the lesson, including confidence with gear, basic safety, weather awareness, and choosing appropriate next steps.
Women On the Water: Intro FAQs
Do I need previous kayaking experience?
Intro to kayaking can be a helpful starting place, but this course is designed for women with little to no experience.
Is kayaking equipment included?
Yes. Kayak, paddle, PFD, and required paddling safety equipment are included for the series.
What will I learn in this lesson?
You’ll learn essential kayaking strokes, edging for maneuverability and rescues.
Is this a good first step before Paddle Canada courses?
Yes. This series is designed to be the starting point before moving into Women On the Water: The Next Step which follows the Paddle Canada sea kayak level 1 curriculum.
Where does the lesson take place?
Women On the Water may launch from various places around the Comox Valley, depending on the scheduled session.
