Sea Kayak Foundation
A supportive two-day course for people who are new to sea kayaking, returning after time away or ready to replace uncertainty with strong foundations.
A calm, capable beginning on real coastline
The aim is not simply to complete a list of techniques. It is to help you feel settled in a sea kayak, understand what is happening around you and begin making sound decisions as you paddle.
Foundation is a good fit if you:
- Are new to sea kayaking or still feel new on the sea
- Have paddled on rivers or lakes but want coastal confidence
- Are returning after time away
- Prefer a supportive, unrushed introduction
- Want to understand wind, waves and shoreline features
Already comfortable on calm sea?
If you paddle regularly, feel settled in a sea kayak and want to extend your technique, range and decision-making in more varied conditions, Development may be the better starting point.
Compare DevelopmentConfidence that transfers beyond the course
Coaching is shaped around the group, coastline and conditions. Skills are introduced progressively and revisited as confidence grows.
Comfort & balance
Settle into the kayak, move with the water and paddle with less tension and effort.
Useful boat handling
Develop efficient strokes and greater control while travelling along the coast.
Coastal awareness
Begin reading wind, waves, shoreline features and the choices they create.
Simple journeys
Put skills together on short coastal journeys chosen for the group and the day.
Safety foundations
Explore introductory rescues, group awareness and sensible preparation.
Your next step
Leave with useful feedback and a clearer understanding of what to develop next.
A purposeful plan that can adapt
Each day begins at the Academy with equipment, conditions and the plan. The paddling location is chosen to make the best use of the weather and the group’s needs.
Meet at the Academy
Get comfortable with your equipment and talk through the day before travelling to the coast.
Learn on the coast
Usually begin in sheltered water, with more varied coastline or small waves when appropriate.
Practise and review
Ask questions, repeat skills and connect each experience to decisions you can use later.
What we provide
- Two days of small-group coaching
- Sea kayak, paddle and essential safety equipment
- Drysuit and other paddling kit if required
- Classroom, kit-wash and drying facilities
- Joining information before arrival
Before you book
- Normal meeting time is 9am unless arranged otherwise
- Courses begin at New Holmus Farm
- Participant camping is £15 per person per night
- Holmus Cottage may be available separately
- You are welcome to stay elsewhere and travel in each day
Choose your Foundation course
Book online for instant confirmation, or request a place by email and pay by bank transfer.
Ant handles bookings and coordination; your coach takes care of everything on the water.
May 2027
15–16 May 2027
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June 2027
12–13 June 2027
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July 2027
3–4 July 2027
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Everything you need before you arrive
Explore the Academy base, travel options and places to stay. Exact joining details and directions are sent to booked participants.