“If there is magic on this planet, it is contained in water.”
Classes
Price includes instruction and use of equipment including kayaks and all paddling gear.
Most classes take place at Boulevard Park in Bellingham and begin at 9 am.
K1: Intro to Kayaking
Do you want to try kayaking, but aren’t sure where to start? Do you need a refresher after a long break? This is the class for you!
We’ll start with a review of basic kayaking gear and safety, followed by an on-land introduction to paddle strokes. After that, we get on the water, practicing launching, landing, turning and moving the kayak, and preventing capsizes. At the end of the course the instructor will demonstrate a self-rescue, and students can practice a wet exit if desired (not required).
Wetsuits provided. No experience necessary
4 hours | $125 per person, plus tax
2025 Dates: 5/4; 5/11; 5/18; 6/15 (FULL); 6/29; 7/13; 7/27; 8/17; 8/24; 8/31
K2: Rescues
What do you do if your kayak flips over? This class will give you the skills and confidence to rescue yourself and others in case of a capsize.
After a short warm up activity, we’ll learn how to help each other back into our kayaks using different techniques. Once students feel comfortable with assisted rescues, we will practice self-rescues. We will take breaks as needed, but plan to spend a couple of hours in the water.
Wetsuits provided.
Prerequisite: K1 or some experience paddling a sea kayak
4 hours | $125 per person, plus tax
2025 Dates: 5/18; 6/29; 7/27; 8/24; 8/31
K3: Edging, Bracing, Intermediate strokes
Once you feel comfortable with basic strokes and rescues, it’s time to improve your stability and take your boat control to the next level. In this class you’ll learn to use your lower body more effectively in combination with your paddle strokes to take the kayak exactly where you want it to go. We’ll also review and practice bracing techniques to help prevent capsizes.
Wetsuits provided
4 hours | $125 per person, plus tax
2025 Dates: Classes scheduled based on student interest
K4: Intermediate Rescues and Towing
You’ve practiced your basic assisted rescues and self-rescues, and you’re ready for more. In this class we’ll go over more “technical” rescue techniques, including how to rescue an incapacitated paddler. After that, we’ll review and practice towing another paddler. Plan to spend some time in the water.
Wetsuits provided.
Prerequisite: K1/K2 or equivalent skills/experience. K3 is helpful but not required.
4 hours | $125 per person, plus tax
2025 Dates: Classes scheduled based on student interest
The Weekender
For those who want to learn it all in a weekend. Offered once a month over the summer, this two-day course combines K1-K4 into two full days of instruction. Students should be prepared for two long, active days. Bring a lunch!
Wetsuits provided
2 days | 7-8 hours/day | $350 per person, plus tax
2025 Dates:
5/31-6/1; 7/5-7/6; 8/9-8/10; 9/13-9/14;
Full Day Introduction to Kayaking
This full day course combines the “Intro” (K1) and “Rescues” (K2) classes into one fun-filled class. Plan to spend lots of time on and in the water. We will take breaks throughout the day. Bring a lunch.
Wetsuits provided. No experience necessary
7-8 hours | $195 per person, plus tax
2025 Dates: 6/15 (2 ; 6/29; 7/13; 7/27; 8/17; 8/24; 8/31
Full Day Intermediate Kayaking
This full day course combines “Edging, Bracing, Intermediate Strokes” (K3) with “Intermediate Rescues & Towing” (K4) into one fun-filled class. Plan to spend lots of time on and in the water, with breaks taken throughout the day. Bring a lunch.
Wetsuits provided
7-8 hours | $195 per person
2025 Dates: Scheduled based on student interest. Contact to find a date that works if interested.
KF - Kayak Fun!
Practice your skills, meet other developing paddlers, and have fun. Although taking K1-K4 will provide you with a foundation in the sport of sea kayaking, like any skill it takes practice and repetition to master. The Saturday “Fun Paddle” was created as a low-pressure opportunity to get on the water with others who want to practice their skills under the guidance of a qualified instructor. This is not a formal class and has no curriculum, though pointers and informal instruction may be offered. These sessions are open to anyone who has taken a class with Wandering Waves. Advanced registration required.
2-3 hours | $50 per person, or $20 with your own equipment
Offered intermittently throughout the summer by request.