Coastal Explorer Days

These are premium big-water coaching days on the Saugeen Peninsula. Expect open-lake swell, real coastal navigation, and the kind of terrain normally found on the ocean. Coastal Explorer Days are designed for paddlers preparing for Level 2 or Level 3 courses, or want to get experience touring in coastal conditions, and for anyone who wants to build real confidence and judgement in dynamic water.

What to Expect

• Full-day coastal coaching in Class 2 conditions (weather-dependent)
• Locations include Lion’s Head, Dyer’s Bay, Cape Croker, and Tobermory
• Focus on level 2 and 3 skills in a controlled environment
• Real-world decision-making in dynamic, technical water
• Small group coaching for a more focused and safer experience

Skill Level

• Suitable for paddlers with solid Level 1 basics and comfort in moderate wind and waves
• Ideal for paddlers preparing for Level 2 or consolidating Level 2 skills
• Excellent progression and exposure for paddlers preparing for Level 3
• Supportive, calm environment focused on judgement, confidence, and technical development

Why These Days Matter

The Saugeen Peninsula is one of the only places in Ontario where paddlers can develop true coastal-water judgement without travelling to the ocean. These days offer the conditions, coaching, and exposure needed to build competence in bigger terrain and prepare for more advanced trips, courses, or leadership pathways.

• Sea kayak with two sealed bulkheads (rentals available)
• Drysuit depending on time of year and conditions - rentals are available.
• PFD, paddle, spray skirt, bilge pump, whistle, paddle float, tow line , water, snacks, sunscreen - rentals available.
• After registration you will receive a full gear and rental pack with details for kayak and drysuit rentals. This keeps the base price flexible for paddlers with their own gear while ensuring high-quality rentals are available.

Leadership Alignment

Coastal Explorer Days help develop the judgement, planning, and risk management expected of Day Trip Leaders. While not a certification course, these sessions are a strong stepping stone for paddlers preparing for future leadership training or ORCKA Trip Leader pathways.

Land Acknowledgement
We acknowledge that the Saugeen Peninsula, including Lion’s Head, Cabot Head, Dyer’s Bay, and Tobermory, lies within the traditional territory of the Saugeen Ojibway Nation, which includes the Chippewas of Saugeen First Nation and the Chippewas of Nawash Unceded First Nation at Neyaashiinigmiing.

We recognize their enduring relationship with these lands and waters, and we are grateful to paddle in a place cared for by the Saugeen Ojibway People since time immemorial.