Master Kayak Strokes with Kayak Centre of Rhode Island
Difficulty
easy
Duration
3–4 hours
Fitness Level
Participants should be in decent physical shape, able to engage core muscles and handle moderate upper body activity.
Overview
Sharpen your paddling skills on Narragansett Bay with Kayak Centre of Rhode Island’s beginner session. This 3.5-hour course teaches precise strokes and techniques for confident kayaking in the heart of North Kingstown.
Just Strokes - Beginner
$68 per person | Learn the most essential kayak paddling strokes you'll need to paddle efficiently
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Adventure Photos
About This Adventure
Join this engaging 3.5-hour kayaking course designed for both beginners and seasoned paddlers looking to refine their skills. Learn essential strokes and techniques while focusing on core engagement for better performance. Bring your own kayak for a personalized experience, and enjoy a memorable day on the water!
Rates
$68.00 per person (Ages 16+)
Duration
3.5 hours
About
This course is perfect for new paddlers or anyone who has experience but wants to brush up or perfect their basic strokes. This class will cover forward strokes, reverse strokes, sweep strokes and then linking the sweep strokes into 360 turns, emergency stopping (a couple of different ways), a draw stroke, both stern rudders and stern pry's, and a low brace recovery stroke. Emphasis will be placed on engaging the core muscles to propel your boat and lessen the strain on your arm and shoulder muscles.
Kayaks can be provided, however we recommend using your own boat to get the best feel for how these strokes work.
Recommended Items to Bring
- Water Bottle - Please fill prior to your arrival.
- Dry Bag
- A PFD (We can provide one for you).
- A Paddle (We can provide one for you).
- Hat
- Sun Protection
Parking
Please park in the lot across from our main store at 70 Brown Street and walk to meet us at our waterfront location at 10 Phillips Street (At the end of the street by the bridge. Note: There is NO parking at the launch site.)
We ask that guests arrive approximately 15 minutes before the class starts so we can get geared up and spend more time on the water!
Adventure Tips
Arrive Early to Gear Up
Reach the waterfront location at least 15 minutes before class for a smooth check-in and equipment setup.
Bring Your Own Kayak
For the most effective training, use your personal kayak to receive tailored instruction and improve technique.
Hydrate Beforehand
Fill your water bottle before arrival to stay hydrated during the 3.5-hour paddle session.
Dress for Sun and Water
Wear sun protection and quick-drying clothing, and bring a hat to manage glare and temperature.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Great Blue Heron
- Osprey
History
North Kingstown’s shore played a role in colonial trade and fishing, offering historic maritime context to paddlers.
Conservation
The Kayak Centre promotes low-impact paddling practices to preserve coastal habitats and water quality in Narragansett Bay.
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Adventure Hotspots in Providence, RI
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Personal Kayak
Using your own kayak allows instructors to tailor technique adjustments specific to your boat's handling.
Water Bottle
Staying hydrated supports endurance and focus during the multi-hour paddle session.
Personal Flotation Device (PFD)
Safety first: a PFD is vital when on the water, and the Centre provides them if you don’t have one.
Sun Protection (Hat & Sunscreen)
Shield your skin and eyes from sun exposure common on open water days.
summer|spring|fall specific