Quickstart your Kayak

American Canoe Association (ACA) Level 1: QuickStart Your Kayak

This 3-4 hour course is designed to introduce/expose the participant to sufficient skill and knowledge so that they can enjoy the sport of kayaking on flatwater. This course is for those individuals who have already taken a SmartStart Paddling Orientation course or have some previous paddling experience. Topics covered will include: personal preparation (swimming ability, water comfort/confidence, fitness, safe paddling, safety/rescue considerations, and personal equipment), launching and landing (how to carry to/from water, entry/exit from shore and dock, and boat stability), rescues and emptying kayak (responsibility of group/individual/victim and instructor demonstrations of specific rescues), basic strokes/maneuvers, paddling in a straight line, stopping within reasonable distance, and spinning and turning the kayak.

This course will take place within a protected cove near the Camacho Center and Fiesta Gardens. Depending on participants’ skill and comfort levels, we can progress towards a less-protected area of Lady Bird Lake.

Recommended additions to this course include our Flatwater Kayak Safety & Rescue Course (4+ hours) or our more advanced Level 1: Introduction to Kayaking

Two or more individuals: $75 per person
Private lesson: $95
Included in cost: PFD, Kayak, Paddle, and Instruction

What to bring: weather appropriate clothing (no cotton clothing), closed toed shoes that you don’t mind getting wet, water/snacks, notepad and pen.

Instruction available by appointment or join a scheduled class.  Minimum of two participants required for the per person fee.  Classes offered every 3rd Saturday of the Month from 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM.