Level 1 Sea Kayak Courses
Every paddler starts somewhere. Whether it’s your first wet exit or guiding the next generation, we welcome you to this journey and to the sea. Sea kayaking is unique in that it becomes what you want it to be — a quiet connection with nature, a path of exploration across open water, or an exhilarating dance with surf and sea. Whatever your goal, your journey starts here.
1. Course Overview Confidence, safety, and foundational strokes in calm water
Click above to see the course offerings!
The Paddle Canada Level 1 Sea Kayak Course is where your paddling journey begins. Over two days, you’ll learn the core strokes, rescues, and seamanship skills that form the foundation for safe, confident paddling. We focus on comfort, good habits, and practical decision-making in real conditions.
- Forward, reverse, and sweep strokes
- Edging and bracing for stability
- Wet exits and assisted rescues
- Navigation and trip planning basics
- Weather and sea-state awareness
- Group communication and safety systems
Confidence is built one calm crossing at a time.
2. Locations Calm, scenic sites across Ontario
Level 1 courses are hosted at Ontario’s most accessible and beautiful paddling environments:
- Hamilton — calm bays and beginner-friendly water
- Guelph Lake — controlled environment with easy access
- Lion’s Head — clear Georgian Bay water and cliffs
- Rondeau — Lake Erie's beaches
3. Prerequisites No previous experience required
You don’t need any kayaking experience to join — just comfort in the water, enthusiasm to learn, and a sense of adventure. Minimum age 16 (younger paddlers welcome with guardian consent).
4. What You’ll Receive Certification, mentorship, and progression
- Paddle Canada Level 1 certification (upon successful completion)
- Access to our Online Learning Portal for pre-course prep
- Course materials and post-course resources
- Progression path to Level 2, Instructor Training, and Instructional Tours
5. Gear and Rentals Everything you need is provided or available for rent
We provide high-quality kayaks (Valley and Rockpool), paddles (Werner), and all safety equipment. Drysuits are included free of charge for Level 1 courses. You’re also welcome to bring your own kayak and gear — just let us know when registering.
See our rental options for more details.
6. Next Steps Continue your development
After completing Level 1, you can continue to Paddle Canada Level 2, or join one of our Instructional Tours for real-world mileage and mentorship.
“You don’t have to be an expert to feel at home on the sea — just curious enough to begin.”
7. Why We’re the Best in Class in Canada Excellence, inclusivity, and leadership from coast to coast
Kayak Ontario has become Canada’s benchmark for high-quality sea kayaking education — recognized for both teaching excellence and a culture of mentorship. We combine nationally certified Paddle Canada and ORCKA instruction with a community-driven approach that makes learning accessible, safe, and fun.
- Certified across both major systems: Paddle Canada & ORCKA Instructor Trainers on staff. The only company who can say that!
- Premium gear and locations: we provide top-tier kayaks, drysuits, and training sites chosen for safety and scenery.
- Inclusive, trauma-informed teaching: designed so every paddler feels welcome and supported.
- Small group coaching: personalized feedback and direct mentorship from Canada’s most experienced coaches.
- Industry leadership: our curriculum influences national paddling standards and best practices.
The premier brands trust us — and so do Canada’s most dedicated paddlers.
From Ontario’s Great Lakes to the Atlantic Maritimes, Kayak Ontario stands for integrity, safety, and connection to water. That’s why we’re proud to be known as the best in class in Canadian sea kayak instruction.
Reserve Your Spot
Choose your preferred location and date — spaces fill quickly each season.
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