By getting you on the water two days in a row, you will learn more and absorb a higher number of concepts. Optimum retention of knowledge can be achieved when you create more opportunity for reinforcement. A clear progression of classes translates to greater paddling skills and increased enthusiasm for the sport! Take the leap and jump in with both feet. Become immersed! Become a sea kayaker!
Saturday at Alder Creek 9am
- Basic Seamanship including chart reading and practical navigation
- Boat Control and maneuvering
- Trip planning and group awareness
- Basic Rescues
Sunday Tour 9-4pm
- Practical application of skills while underway
- Practice rescue and maneuvering
- Basic navigation exercises
Saturday Morning 9:00 am - Alder Creek Kayak & Canoe: 200 NE Tomahawk Island Drive, Portland, OR 97217 (503)285-0464. Take the Jantzen Beach exit off I-5 (exit 308) and go east. The store is on the east end of the island past the fire house, condominiums, and yacht clubs on the south side of the road about ½ mile from I-5
Sunday Morning 9:00 am - Ridgefield Kayak Directions: Take exit 14 off I-5, go west for 3 miles on Pioneer St/hwy 501 into Ridgefield. Follow Pioneer St through three roundabouts and two stop signs to cross the railroad tracks. Take your first left onto Mill St and park along the fence. Walk through the fence gate, down the ramp, and turn left to meet us at the floating office!
Parking: If you can park against the chain link fence, outside of marina parking, you should. There is no fee to park along the fence.
PLEASE do not park in McCuddy's private marina parking. If you are having trouble finding a space, please check with us inside the shop and we can direct you to overflow parking. OR you can simply pay the parking fee to use the paved lot. The pay machine is by the restrooms.
What you will need for this course: (be sure to read to the bottom)
Saturday and Sunday on the water -
If you are un-able to bring the items listed below please let us know as we can provide them if needed. We typiaclly provide immersion wear in the form of either a neoprene wetsuit or nylon drysuit with latex gasket seals and neoprene boots.
Only in the hottest summer months do we run courses without some form of immersion wear. The water is cold year round so you will need to bring layers to wear under the suits provided.
- Sunglasses with retention device (i.e. Croakies, Chums, etc)
- NO COTTON Synthetic top and bottom layers (thermal underwear, heavier wt. for cooler weather)
- Nylon shorts and/or swimsuit for warmer days
- Hiking style wool or synthetic socks
- Water bottle
- LUNCH small enough to pack into the boats
- Towel and change of clothes for ride home
Optional Gear:
- Water proof camera
- Hat
- Sunscreen
- River shoes or booties
We provide all paddling gear needed!
Gratuity: It's NEVER expected but always appreciated. If you feel your coaches / guides have done an exceptional job and made your experience a memorable one, then you can certainly show your appreciation by giving a tip.
If your coach / guide was so exceptional that you want him or her to be your guide on all future trips, simply request them at the time you make your reservation. While we cannot promise he/she will be available, we will do everything in our power to accommodate your request.
-We do not cover parking/day-use fees or provide food/drink.
This class is appropriate for new paddlers, but some basic skills are recommended to get the most value for your time. Check out the Basic Skills Kayak class if this is your first formal instruction.
Our Full Immersion programs require at least 2 weeks notice for any cancellations. Cancellations within 2 weeks of the program are NOT refundable unless we are able to fill your spot.
The Pacific Northwest is a dynamic and often unpredictable environment. All activities are run/fun rain or shine. All programs are conditions dependent and may change at any time at our discretion. In order to keep our programs affordable a minimum number of participants may be required. If we are unable to fill a program to a minimum requirement level we reserve the right to cancel the program. A full refund will be provided in the event of a cancelled or re-scheduled activity upon request. Thank you for signing up! Please let us know if you have questions about this or any other policy here at Alder Creek. You can call us at 503-285-0464.
