Who We Are
Kayak Ontario is more than a sea kayaking school; we are a community built around access, mentorship, and shared passion for the water. Our mission is to make sea kayaking safe, inclusive, and inspiring for everyone who wants to explore Ontario’s incredible coasts and inland waterways.
Founded by Aaron Gascoyne, a Paddle Canada Instructor Trainer and Certified Engineering Technologist, Kayak Ontario operates courses and guided expeditions across Georgian Bay, Lake Superior, the Maritimes and Brazil. We offer Paddle Canada-certified training from beginner to instructor levels, as well as specialized leadership and guiding programs.
Explore Courses
Our Commitment to Community
At Kayak Ontario, we believe that the heart of the outdoor industry is built through community. We invest in guides, educators, and community leaders who inspire through action, not attention. We proudly support the following organizations whose work makes the outdoors more inclusive and accessible:
Steel Town Athletic Club
A Hamilton-based collective creating outdoor adventure and sport opportunities for BIPOC youth and families.
Colour the Trails
Building safe spaces and outdoor opportunities for Black, Indigenous, and People of Colour across Canada.
Brown Girl Outdoor World
Creating outdoor experiences and mentorship for women of colour in paddling, hiking, fishing, and beyond.
Indian Residential School Survivors Society (IRSSS)
Supporting Survivors and their families through trauma-informed programs that contribute to healing and reconciliation.
Bruce Trail Conservancy
Protecting and preserving the Bruce Trail and Niagara Escarpment through conservation and community engagement.
BIPOC Outdoor Gear Library
Reducing barriers to outdoor participation by lending affordable gear and providing education for equitable access.
About the Founder
Aaron Gascoyne, B.Comm., C.E.T. is the founder of Kayak Ontario and a Instructor Trainer with Paddle Canada and ORCKA. With extensive experience designing courses and leading expeditions, Aaron is recognized as one of Canada’s most active sea-kayaking educators. He has created multiple programs that are now industry standards across Ontario and the Atlantic coast.
Before founding Kayak Ontario, Aaron coached competitive hockey and worked in renewable energy systems. His blend of analytical precision and empathetic leadership informs a coaching philosophy rooted in safety, growth, and connection.
Education & Certifications
- Ontario Tech University – B.Comm. (Honours, Operations Research) 2013
- Niagara College – Electrical Engineering Technology – Power Systems 2003
- Certified Engineering Technologist – O.A.C.E.T.T.
- Paddle Canada Level 4 Skills, Level 3 Instructor & Level 2 Instructor Trainer
- ORCKA - CK3 and KT 3 instructor and Instructor Trainer
- CanBoat Registered Examinier - VHF ROC-M Examiner
- Registered Coach – NCCP
- Level 2 Hockey Coach – Hockey Canada