Sea Kayaking Fundamentals with Community Boating Center in Bellingham
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
3 hours
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness needed; some upper body strength and endurance required to paddle effectively for the duration
Overview
Gain essential solo sea kayaking skills in Bellingham with the Community Boating Center’s focused 3-hour class, perfect for new paddlers ready to master safety and technique before hitting Puget Sound’s waters.
Essentials of Sea Kayaking
3 hours | Ages 16 and up
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About This Adventure
Dive into the essentials of solo sea kayaking in this engaging 3-hour class! Learn vital skills like paddle strokes, cold water safety, and the crucial 'Wet Exit' technique. Completing this course opens the door to kayak rentals and sets you up for further adventures in our Rescues & Recoveries class.
Learn how to safely ‘Wet Exit’ and 'Self-recover!’
Duration: 3 hours
This class is designed to introduce the basic skills required to safely sea kayak by yourself.
Students will learn about: -Necessary equipment -Paddle strokes -Basic kayak exit and entry maneuvers -Cold water safety -On-water safety communication
Completing this class gives you the skills needed to rent our sea kayaks! Getting wet is mandatory to pass the Wet Exit Quiz.
Prerequisites: none!
**Next Step:**This course is designed as a prerequisite to our Rescues & Recoveries class. These two are offered in succession for a full day of kayak skill growth!
If you don't want to get wet, rent a sit-on-top Kayak from us or take our Coastal Explorer Tour!
If you complete both classes or you are an experienced paddler looking for even more growth, inquire about volunteering to assist with our programs!
We do not want cost to be a barrier from participation, our scholarship program can be found here.
Adventure Tips
Master the Wet Exit
Practicing the Wet Exit technique is mandatory; be prepared to get wet to ensure your safety in unexpected capsizes.
Dress for Cold Water
Wear appropriate cold water gear or wetsuits, as Puget Sound temperatures are chilly even in summer.
Check the Tide and Weather
Always review tide charts and local weather conditions before heading out, as currents can be strong and weather change quickly.
Bring a Waterproof Communication Device
Pack a waterproof VHF radio or phone for emergency communication during your paddling sessions.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Harbor seals often surface near paddlers along the shoreline.
- Bald eagles are frequently spotted soaring above coastal forests.
History
Bellingham's waterfront has long been a hub for maritime activity and boating education, with Community Boating Center carrying forward decades of community-focused paddling traditions.
Conservation
The center promotes sustainable paddling practices to minimize impact on sensitive marine habitats and advocates for clean water initiatives on Puget Sound.
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Adventure Hotspots in Bellingham
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Wetsuit or Drysuit
Keeps you warm and protected in Puget Sound’s cold water conditions.
fall|winter|spring specific
Personal Flotation Device (PFD)
A mandatory safety item for buoyancy and personal safety on the water.
Waterproof Layered Clothing
Helps you stay dry and warm against wind and spray.
spring|fall|winter specific
Waterproof Communication Device
Essential for emergencies, providing communication when far from shore.