Training & Technique

Coastguard Boating Education - Online Kayaking Safety Module

Coastguard Boating Education has an e-learning safety module on their website relating to kayaking.

» Click here to test your knowledge now.

Paddling Technique

Efficient paddling is discussed by Sandy Winterton in the PDF Courting Speed (100 KB).

Rescues are on the Safety page

For details on rescue techniques and the chapter from the KASK Handbook are all there.

Sea Kayak Training and Proficiency Information

This is information for recreational sea kayakers and gives a guide to the levels that they can aspire to. It is also a guide for clubs and networks when offering training and leadership to their members.

Click here download the KASK Training Proficiency Information PDF (114KB).

BCU 1-5 star tests.pdf (268 KB) The requirements of the British BCU system. Those aspiring to a high level of competency might want to read this. The first 3 Stars are "closed deck" kayaks and the 4 & 5 Star are specifically for Sea Kayaks.

Go to Resources for training providers.

Annual Free Training Weekend ~ Okains Bay

Each year, Canterbury Sea Kayak Network runs a free training weekend at Okains Bay.
See the Events page for dates or the Canterbury Sea Kayak Network's website.

Training includes rescues, surfing and efficient paddling plus other items.

Contact Sandy Ferguson for more information.

Towing

The following links have useful information about towing -

http://www.atlantickayaktours.com/pdf/No-Upload/Booklets/Towing.pdf

A very good PDF on towing with a short comment on tow ropes.

Kayarchy Equipment has a bit on tow ropes and

Kayarchy Towing has the information about towing.

For further information including making a towline and tow point -

http://www.ukseakayakguidebook.co.uk/towlines_files/art_towlines.htm

Note that a central tow point is shown. This works well on a kayak without a rudder or a sticking up stern but if the tow point is to one side it is much easier to release and to keep the towline clear of the rudder. You could put an attachment point on both sides making it easier when a dual tow is used and it would not matter which side the the other towing kayak was on.