Do I need to bring my own kayak?

While kayaks can be provided, it’s recommended you bring your own for personalized instruction and better familiarity during the session.

How physically demanding is the course?

The class is designed for beginner skill levels and moderate fitness, emphasizing technique over brute strength.

What happens if the weather is bad?

Classes canceled due to weather receive a full refund or credit. You will be notified by the day before.

Can I rent a PFD and paddle at the Centre?

Yes, the Kayak Centre provides PFDs and paddles if you do not have your own.

Is prior kayaking experience required?

No prior experience is needed; this course supports total beginners and those refining their stroke technique.

Where do I park for the class?

Parking is at 70 Brown Street, with a short walk to the waterfront launch site at 10 Phillips Street.

Master Kayak Strokes with Kayak Centre of Rhode Island

Situated on the Rhode Island coast, North Kingstown offers an ideal launching point into the rich waterways of Narragansett Bay. At 10 Phillips Street, the Kayak Centre of Rhode Island anchors itself as a local hub for paddling enthusiasts seeking grounded, skill-focused instruction amid a vibrant maritime landscape. This area, defined by gentle tides and scenic coves framed by rocky shores and salt marshes, provides both beginners and experienced paddlers a controlled yet dynamic environment. The "Just Strokes - Beginner" course stands out as a carefully structured 3.5-hour session tailored to individuals eager to master the essential kayak paddle techniques necessary for confident water travel.

Unlike a casual outing, this course drills into foundational strokes—forward, reverse, sweep, and draw—integrating them into practical maneuvers like 360-degree turns and emergency stops. Students learn to harness core muscle engagement, a technique that reduces fatigue and improves boat control, fostering a more efficient and safe paddling experience. Bringing your own kayak is recommended, allowing personalized feedback that sharpens your proficiency with your own equipment.

North Kingstown’s setting enhances this learning with its steady winds and variable currents, reflecting typical coastal New England conditions. The nearby salt marsh habitats invite sightings of local wildlife including herons and osprey, adding natural interest without distracting from focused skill development. The Kayak Centre’s mission stretches beyond teaching technique; it connects paddlers to the unique geographic and ecological character of Rhode Island's shoreline.

This hands-on curriculum paired with the region’s maritime culture and scenery forms a compelling destination for anyone wanting to deepen paddle skills in a practical, no-nonsense environment. Whether you’re a novice looking for solid introduction or a seasoned paddler refining your stroke efficiency, the Kayak Centre of Rhode Island offers a valuable gateway to mastering paddling in one of New England’s most accessible coastal towns.

About Kayak Centre of Rhode Island

Kayak Centre of Rhode Island is a family-owned water sports outfitter based in North Kingstown, Rhode Island. The business operates guided tours, rentals, and specialty experiences from Wickford Harbor and nearby launch points. Offerings include guided kayak tours of Wickford Harbor, Narragansett Bay, Jamestown coastal paddles, fall foliage trips, and ecological tours led by an on-site naturalist. For rental options, the outfitter provides timed kayak and paddleboard rentals, 15-foot Hobie Fiesta inflatable rentals for up to four adults, Hobie Eclipse pedalboards for hands-free sunset tours, and longer specialty sessions such as a full-day long boat surfing clinic.

Safety and local knowledge are emphasized through small group sizes (for select slots), required accompaniment for minors on family rentals, and clear equipment guidance. Tours range from two-hour introductory paddles and paddleboard yoga sessions to three-hour coastal and eco excursions and a seven-hour advanced long-boat surfing course. The business supplies life jackets and basic safety briefings, and advanced reservations are recommended for Hobie rentals and specialty events.

Kayak Centre of Rhode Island builds credibility through consistent local operation, partnerships with Wickford on the Water for post-tour dining events like the Taco Tuesday pedalboard dinner, and a focus on accessible, educational experiences. Guests benefit from scenic views of Newport Harbor, Fort Adams, Fox Island, and southern Rhode Island shorelines, making each tour both recreational and informative.

Experienced staff provide route recommendations, weather guidance, and local history commentary to enhance each outing. Advanced bookings and group rates are available for private events and corporate outings.