Kayak Safety with Community Boating Center in Bellingham
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
3 hours
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness needed; be comfortable swimming and performing physically demanding kayak maneuvers
Overview
Gain critical kayak safety skills with Community Boating Center's hands-on Rescues & Recoveries class in Bellingham. Master wet exits, self-rescues, and emergency techniques on local waters over three engaging hours.
Rescues & Recoveries
3 hours | Ages 16 and up
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About This Adventure
Enhance your kayaking confidence with a hands-on safety skills class! Over three hours, you'll master essential techniques like wet exits, self-rescues, and bracing methods, all while on the water. Equip yourself to handle emergencies and ensure safety for you and your companions in this immersive learning experience.
Improve your kayak safety skills!
Duration: 3 hours
Do you want to be more confident and self-reliant on the water? Do you want to learn how to rescue another paddler? This class will teach the skills needed to help you and your companions stay safe if you capsize!
We’ll be on (and in) the water throughout this class, starting with a wet exit practice in the shallows to get comfortable. From there, we will cover the paddle float self-rescue, cowboy self-rescue, assisted T-Rescue, and cover multiple bracing and edging techniques. Understanding the limits of you and your boat is key to being safe on the water!
All needed equipment and gear will be provided; if you have your own wetsuit feel free to bring it!
If you would like to learn in your own kayak please email us first!
Prerequisites: Essentials of Sea Kayaking or equivalent experience
Next Steps: Try our virtual Introduction to Tides and Currents to plan your next trip or apply to volunteer for our paddling programs!
If the program date you are interested in is full please join our waitlist here.
We do not want cost to be a barrier from participation, our scholarship program can be found here.
Adventure Tips
Arrive Ready to Get Wet
The class includes wet exits and on-water rescues—wear quick-drying layers and bring a towel for after.
Prerequisite Experience Required
Completion of Essentials of Sea Kayaking or comparable skills is necessary to join this course safely.
Dress for Cold Water
Even summer temperatures in Puget Sound waters are chilly; a wetsuit or drysuit is recommended for comfort and safety.
Bring Your Own Kayak?
If you prefer to train in your personal kayak, contact Community Boating Center in advance for approval.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Harbor seals, often seen hauled out on nearby rocks
- Bald eagles that nest in coastal trees and circle overhead
History
Bellingham’s maritime culture dates back to Coast Salish peoples, who have navigated and respected these waters for centuries.
Conservation
Community Boating Center promotes sustainable water recreation, encouraging low-impact practices to protect sensitive marine habitats.
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Adventure Hotspots in Bellingham
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Wetsuit or Drysuit
Protects against cold water and extends comfort during wet exits and rescues.
spring|summer|fall|winter specific
Water Shoes
Provides grip and foot protection on slippery launch points and shorelines.
summer|spring|fall specific
Synthetic Base Layers
Keep warm and dry under wetsuits to maintain body heat during immersion.
fall|spring|winter specific
Personal Flotation Device (PFD)
Mandatory for safety, aiding buoyancy during all rescue techniques.