This 5-day course is perfect for anyone looking to develop their sea kayaking skills. Whether you're working towards the Paddle UK Sea Kayak Leader award or simply wish to improve your techniques, the programme provides a great opportunity for learning and practice. Based in the scenic South Hams area, you'll enjoy some of the best locations for sea kayaking while building confidence in your paddling abilities.
Throughout the week, you'll focus on developing a range of sea kayaking skills. The course covers key topics such as tidal planning, rescue techniques, and leadership development, all with practical, hands-on instruction. If you’re aiming for the Paddle UK Sea Kayak Leader award, this week will prepare you for the assessments with expert guidance in real-world sea conditions. You’ll also have the chance to explore some of the best sea kayaking locations in Devon, learning essential skills and techniques along the way.
The programme also includes opportunities to practice your skills in areas such as surfing, as the course is held near some of the best surfing beaches in South Devon. The course offers a mixture of structured lessons and independent paddling, allowing you to gain valuable experience in a variety of conditions. Whether you're after the qualification or just want to improve your kayaking abilities, this course offers a supportive and engaging environment for skill development.
The course is based in the South Hams area, a beautiful coastal region in Devon, South West England. With its varied coastline, sheltered coves, and open sea conditions, the location provides a perfect setting for sea kayaking.
Not only will you paddle in amazing surroundings, but you'll also benefit from the knowledge of experienced instructors who know the area well. The location is easily accessible, situated near Buckfastleigh, Devon, and offers the perfect base for a week of learning.
To take part in the course, you’ll need your own sea kayak and paddling kit. It’s also recommended that you have already completed sea kayak tidal planning, as the course assumes some prior knowledge. If you haven’t completed the tidal planning, we can go through it with you during the week.
While the course can be completed without the intention of gaining the Sea Kayak Leader qualification, a solid foundation in basic sea kayaking is needed to make the most of the lessons.
This course is ideal for those seeking to develop a wide range of sea kayaking skills in a supportive environment. The course is designed to be hands-on, with a focus on real-life sea kayaking experiences that will prepare you for leadership roles in paddling.
The instructors are experienced and offer personalised coaching, ensuring that each participant gets the attention and support they need. With the South Devon coastline as the backdrop, you’ll enjoy excellent paddling conditions, alongside opportunities to refine your techniques. Whether you aim to gain a qualification or simply want to improve your skills, the course offers an excellent mix of learning, adventure, and fun.
The course lasts 5 days, providing you with plenty of time to develop your sea kayaking skills. Each day will include a mixture of practical sessions on the water and theory-based learning. Specific schedules will be provided ahead of the course, but expect to spend a good portion of each day on the water, working through rescue techniques, tidal planning, and leadership skills.
Yes, you’ll need your own sea kayak and paddling kit for this course. It’s important that your equipment is suitable for sea kayaking in open water conditions.
If you're unsure about what equipment you’ll need, the course organisers will be happy to provide a list of recommended items.
It’s recommended that you have already completed sea kayak tidal planning before attending the course, as it will be a key part of the training.
However, if you haven’t done this yet, don't worry – we can go over the basics of tidal planning during the course to ensure you're fully prepared.
While the course is designed to help you work towards the Paddle UK Sea Kayak Leader qualification, it’s also suitable for those who simply want to develop their sea kayaking skills in a structured way.
Whether you're looking to improve your paddling, work on rescues, or explore the coast with other kayakers, you’ll still gain valuable experience from the course.
This course is designed for those who already have a basic understanding of sea kayaking, including some experience in handling a kayak on open water. If you are new to sea kayaking or have limited experience, it’s best to get some introductory lessons beforehand.
The focus is on developing advanced skills such as rescue techniques, tidal planning, and leadership, so a solid foundation in kayaking is important.
Meals and accommodation are not included in the course price. You will need to arrange your own accommodation and meals during the week.
The course location is close to a variety of accommodation options, from campsites to local hotels, so there are plenty of choices depending on your preferences and budget.
About the centre
Buckfastleigh, Devon
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