From Voss: Whitewater Kayaking Introduction Course Level 1

Our two-day course aims to provide beginner Whitewater Kayakers with a comprehensive foundation in basic whitewater kayaking skills. Participants will:

• Develop personal paddling skills

• Learn to read the river

• Understand safe river running strategies

• Gain knowledge of basic whitewater safety and rescue techniques.

With guidance from our expert coaches, you'll establish a strong foundation, setting the stage for a lifetime of Whitewater River adventures.

Guest Requirements:

• Minimum Age: 10

• Recommended: Participants should be physically active

• Must be a good swimmer and confident in the water

• Inform us of any medical conditions (e.g., asthma, epilepsy)

• Weight Limit: 130kg (contact us if you exceed this)

• Participants will typically be grouped in fours under one instructor. The first morning will involve a meet-and-greet with the instructor to discuss experiences and goals. This, combined with weather forecasts and water levels, will shape the day's activities.

  • Day 1: We commence on flat water or within a pool setting. This transitions to a Grade 1 river section where essential skills are taught and confidence is nurtured in a controlled environment.

  • Day 2: The group will paddle a river best suited for their skill level, including some sections of Grade 2. Time on the river will be utilized to coach and enhance individual paddling skills. The course also delves into river safety and potential rescue scenarios.

Skills Acquired:

• Basic strokes, leaning, and turning techniques

• Simple rescues, both for self and for others

• Understanding river etiquette

• Navigating Grade 1-2 whitewater

• Identifying and assessing river hazards

• Reading water dynamics

• Breaking in and out of currents

• Perfecting ferry glides.

Itinerary:

Show up 10 minutes before your scheduled time at our operational base

• Check-in at our outdoor base

• Meeting and greeting with your instructor

• Theoretical instruction

• Gear outfitting

• Drive to the river

• Safety instructions

• Warm-up

• Practical river exercises

• Lunch break

• Practical river exercises

• Going down a few rapids

• Loading equipment in the car

• Transport

• Back to our outdoor base

• Unpacking the gear

• Changing clothes

• Day evaluation

• Warm meal