This 24 hour + course includes the latest ACA course requirements for Level 3 with some additional tools that only 30 plus years of paddling history can provide. We combine “Coastal Kayak Basic Strokes and Rescues” along with a “Strokes and Maneuver’s refinement” and group leadership on water. On land we’ll cover practical navigation, radio use, rules of the navigable road and emergency equipment. In the water, we’ll cover a variety of group and solo rescues, bracing, boat handling and towing scenarios.
This workshop is held in our Northwest Michigan base, giving us access to multiple venues to provide a variety of conditions including moving water. Since food is provided and we’re all based out of the same location with a instructor/student ratio of 1:3, you are assured of a great inclusive experience tailored to your learning style.
Learn more about ACA Instructor Training Course and Levels.
You will also have access to a wide variety of kayaks, paddling gear and rescue gear to supplement what you bring to the table. Expect to have rec boats and possibly even SUPs thrown into the mix, so you learn how to rescue in a wide variety of scenarios. You’ll work hard, eat hearty and have more fun than anyone should be allowed during an “instructional” program!
Prerequisites
Basic forward strokes, wet exits and ACA membership.
Itinerary
Day 1
Arrival between 1-3 pm. Land school portion begins at 4 pm. Dinner at base.
Day 2
Inland water strokes and rescues work (after breakfast). All day on-water. Dinner at base with evening navigation work.
Day 3
Lake Michigan trip (7 miles away) for practice in “conditions”.
Day 4
Stroke Tune-up & assessment. We should have you on the road between 4 and 5 pm.
Dates for 2025
May 15 – 18
What’s Included
The course fee includes ACA L-4, BCU Coach Instructor, rustic river home accommodations, two breakfasts and two dinners*.
If you would like to do meals and lodging on your own, you may opt for just the ACA course. Another option is camping onsite (with access to bathrooms), meals* included.
*We provide two hearty breakfasts and two delicious dinners. Lunches and additional meals are “on your own”. Did you know Michael is a great cook? He can adapt to special dietary requirements if you let him know in advance.
What’s Not Included and What You Should Bring
- Transportation to the site
- 15′ + sea kayak with floatation fore and aft, paddle, pump, sprayskirt, towbelt, compass (orienteering style), basic repair supplies. Let us know if you need to borrow an appropriate kayak and gear, we have lots of different loaners available.
- Farmer John/Jane style wetsuit: for May/June/September/October, can be rented from us for a flat rate of $20. Drysuit if you have one.
- Synthetic or wool long underwear: polypropylene, polyester, coolmax, etc….anything but cotton, both tops and bottoms, can be worn under shorts too for a very comfortable if not very stylish ensemble.
- Fleece jacket
- Paddling jacket or rain parka.
- Neoprene boots: We try to discourage sandals because they can get tangled in footrests….and that’s bad if you’re upside down.
- Sunscreen
- Sunhat
- Reusable water bottle — please DO NOT bring single use plastic water bottles.
- Lunch supplies (refrigerator available)
- Snacks
- Alcohol or preferred adult beverages
- One dinner at a local establishment
- Guide Gratuity (Suggested 5-10% of trip cost)
NOTE: If a booking date shows on the calendar below, there is space available but always feel free to call or email with specific questions. If the trip is full and you’d like to be waitlisted, give us a call.
Reservations are held with a $300 deposit. The price below reflects the full amount, including service fees; However, your initial payment will be a $300 deposit (assuming you book 30+ days prior to the course).
The remaining amount due will be automatically charged to your credit card 30 days before the trip.
NOTE: You must choose the date of the trip you want before clicking on BOOK NOW. Be sure you are on the right month!
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