Our course is tailored for sea paddlers keen to advance their skills and tackle more challenging environments. Led by experienced instructors, this course offers a structured approach to enhance your sea kayaking abilities in the beautiful setting of Castletown, Portland, Dorset.
Over two days, our level 3 intermediate sea kayak course provides a detailed exploration of essential skills and scenarios crucial for confident sea kayaking. Day one commences with an in-depth session on personal skill development, focusing on refining stroke techniques, manoeuvrability in varying sea conditions, and efficient paddling mechanics. Following a hearty lunch, participants delve into rescue and emergency procedures, mastering techniques such as assisted rescues, towing, and self-rescue manoeuvres under expert guidance.
Day two builds upon the foundation laid, starting with a comprehensive briefing on rough water handling strategies. Participants learn to read and respond to dynamic sea states, practising techniques for maintaining stability and control amidst challenging wave patterns. Later in the morning, focus shifts to tidal planning and navigation, essential for safe and effective journey planning along coastal routes.
Detailed discussions cover tidal theory, interpreting charts, and practical navigation exercises tailored to real-world scenarios. The day culminates with an equipment session, where participants gain insights into selecting, maintaining, and utilising kayaking gear optimally.
Our centre in Castletown, Portland, Dorset, is strategically positioned for optimal sea kayaking adventures, offering access to diverse coastal conditions ideal for skill progression.
To maximise your learning experience, participants should have a basic comfort level with kayaking in force 4 winds and be capable of launching and landing through small waves.
This course is suitable for paddlers who are eager to refine their skills and expand their coastal kayaking abilities.
Founded in 2022 by sea adventure expert Paul, our centre in Dorset promises a supportive learning environment where safety, skill enhancement, and enjoyment are prioritised.
Whether you're new to sea kayaking or looking to refine advanced techniques, our knowledgeable guides ensure a rewarding and memorable experience.
We provide all necessary kayaking equipment, but experienced paddlers are encouraged to bring their own gear.
Participants must be 17 years or older to join the Level 3 Intermediate Sea Kayak Course.
Our standard 2-day course is packed full of information and top coaching that will help you learn new skills and gain knowledge. You will get to enjoy the classic Sea Kayaking on offer around Dorset.
On our 5-day course, you will do a deep dive into the world of Sea Kayaking. You will get to plan trips and launch from a variety of remote locations. Every day is a unique experience that you will remember for years to come.
To book a different duration, please see our other courses at the bottom of this page.
A choice of Sea Kayak’s for your use. We also have a large range of Paddles, Buoyancy aids, Cags, Spray decks, Charts, VHF Radios and a range of personal safety equipment for you to try out.
Our waterfront location is right by the water and we have toilets and secure storage facilities here. For chart work on wild winter days, we have a comfortable classroom at the kayak base.
There are several accommodation options available:
Additionally, there are hotels on Portland including the Aqua Hotel, Admiralty Hotel, and Portland Heights Hotel.
Included with all of our courses is the internationally recognised Paddle UK (formerly British Canoeing) Paddle Start Certificate.
You can receive this, free of charge, as a digital PDF certificate direct from Paddle UK. Higher level, PUK Paddle Awards are available on all of our courses if you meet the required skill criteria.
L1 – Discover
This will be your first time in a kayak. You don’t need to be sporty or adventurous; you don’t even need to be particularly confident in the water for this level. Our team will show you all there is to know about sea kayaking and help you find what really makes it fun!
PUK Equivalent: Paddle Start/Discover
L2 – Introduction
If you’re an outdoors-y person who wants to go on adventures in a kayak, this course is perfect for you! You may have some experience with kayaking or water sports such as sailing, surfing, or river kayaking and are looking to increase your skill level.
PUK Equivalent: Paddle Explore
L3 – Intermediate
Your passion for kayaking has spurred you to learn all about sea kayaks, from logistics and safety to tips for efficient paddling. You’re comfortable paddling at upwind speeds of four knots, or 5 miles per hour.
PUK Equivalent: Sea Kayak Award
L4 – Advanced
You should be an active and experienced sea paddler; over the years you should have undertaken some longer and more challenging expeditions. You should already have the ability to be an active part of the group and know how to help others if they get into difficulty. You should already be able to roll or self-rescue. We will be looking for conditions where you can test your skills so you will get the most out of the course if you are keen to challenge yourself. You should be happy in Force 4+ conditions and launching/landing through surf.
PUK Equivalent: Coastal Sea Kayak Award
About the centre
Osprey Leisure Centre, Castletown, Portland, Dorset, DT5 1BD
We partner with Rewilding Britain to help protect our natural spaces for future adventures.
All centres are vetted for safety and quality. Your adventure is in good hands with adventuro.
Operated by Sea Kayak Dorset, a partner of adventuro.
