This class will take place in Washington's San Juan Islands. This will be a customized trip.

Not the usual "float and bloat".  This is a different adventure - 5 days of traveling by kayak using tidal currents and navigating open crossings.  You will not be "catered to” you will be challenged, and rise to a new level of understanding and expertise.  Navigation, efficient boat packing, group management, boat control, and maybe an intentional swim or two to practice rescues are all part of the itinerary.  If you want sea kayaking to become an exciting adventure then 5 days of coaching in a beautiful environment will open new doors.

The San Juan 5 Day Kayak School will be scheduled periodically throughout the summer. Call to reserve your spot in the next class.

888.571.4545

Outline: San Juan 5 Day School

• Explore many islands traveling by kayak while taking advantage of tidal currents
• Distance touring of 8- 25 miles between camps
• Start to develop the tools needed to complete a multi-day tour on your own
• Experience boat packing, menu planning, navigation, group safety, paddling in wind and waves and practicing boat handling skills

FOR THE WATER:

-Tennis shoes or wetsuit booties
-Kayak, pfd, skirt, paddle, helmet
-wet suit with paddle jacket or drysuit
-water bottle ( 1 quart )
-Sun cream (spf 15), chapstick
-Sun hat or visor
-1 pair nylon shorts or swim suit
-Security strap for eye glasses
-windbreaker and synthetic pile sweater

FOR CAMP:

-Sleeping bag and pad
-Tent  (Alder Creek provides tarps for group areas)
-Swimsuit
-1 pair walking shorts
-2 cotton T shirts
-Synthetic pile pants and jacket
-Rain coat and pants
-2 pair underwear
-Towel (small)
-Toilet kit
-Long sleeve shirt
-Sunglasses w/strap (chums or croakies)
-Insect repellent
-Flashlight w/spare bulb and batteries
-Spare eye glasses or contacts
-Shoes and socks
-small drybags to store personal gear

OPTIONAL GEAR:

-Camera w/film, batteries, and dry storage
-Book
-Writing tablet and pen
-Fishing gear and license
-Folding chair (small)
-Musical instruments (check w/us to make sure it is appropriate)
-Binoculars

Alder Creek  provides dry bags for your personal gear and group gear for camp. We can also provide all boats, paddles, PFD’s.  If you have any questions about what to bring please contact us. Alder Creek has a full line of paddling equipment and accessories. We would be happy to assist you in getting outfitted for your trip. Please remember to keep your personal gear to a minimum, but keep your comfort in mind.

SPECIAL NOTE: We have chosen not to provide alcohol on our trips. If you would like to bring your own please feel free to do so, we will help with the storage and transportation. Aluminum, plastic and foil bags are easier to store than glass. We do not have alcohol on youth only trips.

Meeting Place/Directions:

The San Juan 5 Day Schools meet in a variety of places. You will receive detailed instructions and a map with your confirmation packet.

 If you have any questions about what to bring please contact us. Alder Creek has a full line of paddling equipment and accessories. We would be happy to assist you in getting outfitted for your trip. Please remember to keep your personal gear to a minimum, but keep your comfort in mind. Remember the goal is to travel light and efficiently.

Call for more information.

888.571.4545