Sea Kayak Award (Paddle UK)

The Paddle UK Sea Kayak Award recognises the skills required to paddle sit-inside sea kayaks independently on the sea.

This award focuses on planning and undertaking journeys in sheltered to moderate coastal environments, developing judgement, navigation, and the ability to deal with common mishaps. It is suitable for paddlers who are already comfortable paddling a sea kayak and want formal recognition of their skills.

At the end of the course, paddlers performing at the required standard will be offered the Paddle UK Sea Kayak Award.

How the award is delivered

This course is delivered over two to five days, depending on experience and learning pace. Training and assessment are integrated throughout the course, with decisions based on performance in real coastal conditions rather than artificial scenarios.

Location & paddling conditions

The course begins in our classroom. The exact paddling location is chosen on the day to suit weather, sea state, and the needs of the group.

We aim to begin in relatively calm water to refresh fundamentals before progressing into more complex coastal environments as conditions and confidence allow.

What the course covers

• Trip planning, including tides, weather, and environmental factors

• Efficient paddling techniques, including edging, bracing, and directional control

• Moving safely around coastal features such as headlands and rock gardens

• Simple peer rescues, towing, and self-rescues

• Map and chart reading, including basic deck-top navigation

• Decision-making and problem-solving on the sea

Before you book

All essential sea kayaking kit is included if you need it.

If a date shows as call to book, please email the Academy to enquire — we’ll get you booked in directly.

If you’re unsure whether this award is right for your experience, or would like to talk through course length, conditions, or readiness for assessment, feel free to get in touch before booking — we’re happy to advise.

Equipment provided

All required kayaking equipment is provided. If you have your own kit you’d prefer to use, this can be discussed on the day.

Plan your visit

All Sea Kayak Academy courses meet at our base in Pembrokeshire before heading to the coast.

We always meet at the Academy to check equipment, talk through plans, and choose the best paddling location for the conditions on the day.

Helpful information before you book or arrive:

• Where We Meet – meeting point and what to expect on arrival
• Getting Here – travel options and approximate journey times
• Accommodation – on-site camping and Holmus Cottage
• FAQs – common questions about courses and logistics

👉 Arrival details and directions are provided to booked participants.