The RA Canoe Camping Club offers canoeing and paddling instruction for beginners through advanced paddlers. For participants under 18, eligible programs include introductory and intermediate flatwater and whitewater courses.
Depending on the course, participants can learn:
. Basic canoe handling and paddling techniques
. Getting safely into and out of a canoe
. Forward, backward, turning and stopping techniques
. Solo canoeing skills
. Canoe rescue techniques
. Water and weather safety
. Whitewater paddling and river-reading skills
. More advanced paddling manoeuvres
. Safe paddling practices and outdoor skills
The courses are taught by certified Paddle Canada instructors, and successful participants in certification courses receive Paddle Canada certification.
Programs Relevant to Ages Under 18
Introduction Whitewater Tandem – Ages 13+
Introduces paddlers with some flatwater experience to moving-water and whitewater skills.
Introduction Whitewater Solo – Ages 13+
Designed for paddlers new to solo whitewater canoeing, with an emphasis on safety, canoe skills and river reading.
Intermediate Solo – Ages 13+
Develops more advanced solo whitewater manoeuvres.
Intermediate & Advanced Tandem – Ages 13+
Builds intermediate and advanced tandem whitewater skills, including manoeuvring in currents and around river features.
Intermediate & Advanced Solo – Ages 13+
Develops more complex solo whitewater paddling skills.
Introduction Solo – Ages 14+
Introduces participants to solo canoeing in calm water and includes solo paddling and rescue techniques.
Introduction Tandem – Ages 16+
Beginner tandem canoe course covering basic paddling, canoe handling, rescues and water safety.
Introduction / Intermediate Tandem – Ages 16+
Combines introductory and intermediate tandem canoe instruction and assesses participants according to their existing ability.
Important Age & Parent Requirement
The RA Centre specifies that minors must have a parent or guardian present throughout the applicable courses. Age requirements vary by course, with eligible programs beginning at age 13.
The Introduction to Canoe Tripping & Camping course is listed as 18+, so it should not be included in the KidsPact under-18 offering.
What Participants May Learn
. Canoe and paddle handling
. Flatwater paddling
. Solo canoeing
. Tandem canoeing
. Whitewater paddling
. River reading
. Canoe rescues
. Water safety
. Outdoor and wilderness skills
. Paddle Canada skills and certification
