At 41 North, our classes emphasize whole paddler development through a progression of courses. Our 100 Level courses (Level 1) emphasize the acquisition of fundamental skills taught in safe, sheltered water. Level 200 (Level 2) courses provide students with experience with near shore coastal conditions on Lake Erie. At the 300 Level (Level 3), students participate in open water conditions (i.e., 1 mile off shore) and tackle more challenging coastal conditions (e.g., reflecting waves off of cliffs, etc.).
Every paddler is different. Where you enter our sequence of courses, how quickly you progress, and where you end will depend largely on your goals and your individual skills. Many of these courses are based on experiential learning (using the weather and sea conditions present that day) and can be taken more than once.
Level 1 Courses. This is the starting point for those who are new to paddling and are looking for an complete introduction to the sport. Our Level 1 classes are taught in sheltered conditions to allow participants to focus on the development of core skills and a safe and supportive environment.
Click here for more detailed descriptions, including course outlines and prerequisites.
START WITH ONE OF THE FOLLOWING:
Introduction to Paddling
Basic recreational paddling skills and safety education for those interested in paddling in flatwater (inland lakes, reservoirs, or Class I rivers) only.
OR
SK 101: Sea Kayak Essentials
Taught in sea kayaks, this class provides an comprehensive introduction to fundamental strokes and safety skills for kayakers who want to take advantage of paddling opportunities on the coast. Perfect for beginners or for those who have never had formal training.
THEN CHOOSE ADDITIONAL LEVEL 1 COURSES FOR FURTHER DEVELOPMENT...
SK 102: Advanced Strokes and Maneuvers
Learn how to use leaned and edged turns to improve your boat handling skills and improve your efficiency.
-- AND/OR --
SK 103: Sea Kayak Safety and Rescues
Additional practice and "beyond the basics" rescues and safety techniques for sea kayakers.
OR MOVE ON TO LEVEL 2...
Level 2 Courses. For paddlers ready to move beyond protected bays, slow rivers, and inland lakes, our Level 2 classes provide the training necessary for safe paddling in coastal enviroments.
Click here for more detailed descriptions, including course outlines and prerequisites.
START WITH THIS COURSE:
SK 201: Wind, Waves, and Weather
Take a day trip along the Lake Erie coast and learn how to handle your boat in wind, waves, and weather.
THEN CHOOSE FROM THE FOLLOWING LEVEL 2 COURSES FOR ADDITIONAL DEVELOPMENT...
SK 202: Surf Zone Skills
Learn to launch and land in breaking waves.
OR MOVE ON TO LEVEL 3...
Level 3 Courses. Level 3 classes focus on sound planning and practices for paddling in challenging open water conditions.
Click here for more detailed descriptions, including course outlines and prerequisites.
START WITH THIS COURSE:
SK 301: Erie Islands Adventure
During a day trip in the Erie Islands, participants learn how to deal with open water conditions, manage group dynamics, navigate on the water and deal with commercial boat traffic.
THEN CHOOSE FROM THE FOLLOWING LEVEL 3 COURSES FOR ADDITIONAL DEVELOPMENT...
SK 302: Adventure Paddling
Learn to plan and execute an overnight sea kayak trip, and to deal with issues that arise in the backcountry.
SK 303: Incident Management
Test your skills in dealing with on-water emergencies through participation in rescue scenarios.
SK 304: Rough Water Training
The name says it all. Get bounced around in 3-5 ft. seas and have fun doing it.
AT THIS POINT, YOU'RE A CONFIRMED KAYAK ADDICT. BETTER MOVE ON TO INSTRUCTOR TRAINING...THAT WAY YOU CAN AT LEAST MAKE MONEY TO SUPPORT YOUR HABIT!
Instructor Training and Certification Programs. If you're interested in obtaining an ACA certification or skills assessment, we offer ACA L1-L4 Instructor Development Workshops, Instructor Certification Evaluations, Skills Assessments and Trip Leader Assessments.
Click here for more information.