Coastals

Hey Everyone,

Sorry if this is a repeat post, but after searching the internet and a few forums I thought it might be easier to just start a new post.

I am interested in taking white water kayaking lessons in the future (I realize it won't be until spring), and was thinking about asking for lessons for x-mas to help out with the cost, and also save money for gear. While I will most likely kayak locally (James and maybe the Potomac) after I get started, I am willing to take lesson anywhere within a reasonable distance from Williamsburg, VA (aka a half day drive or less). I have looked at a few places in WV (Class VI and NARR seem to be the better ones), NC/TN (NOC and Endless River seem to be the self-proclaimed best) and then more locally at Chesterfield County, which has got a lot of good local reviews.

I am looking for a 2-3 day camp (maybe more) that has a good atmosphere, does a good job teaching rolling, river reading, a little safety, and actually runs class 2-3 rapids by the end of lessons. Ohh by the way I have been rafting a half dozen times and have spent a good amount of time kayaking and paddling in flat water, but wanted to get a good broad intro before jumping into rapids.

So I am interested in hearing your opinions, previous experiences, recommendations and any other information that you think I should know.

Thanks in advance for the help!

Sam

Hi Sam, I am pretty new to whitewater kayaking as well. I took the Chesterfield County intro to whitewater class this summer and had a lot of fun. One day is spent on flat water going over paddling technique, T-rescues and proper wet exits. The next day is a river trip paddling down the Upper James. As you may already know, Chesterfield also has rolling clinics as well. I just attended their most recent clinic and that was a good time too. There are swift water rescue classes held on the Upper James also. I am going to be looking to get in on one of these when they become available again.. maybe early spring? Combining these classes seems to be the cheapest route to go. I will say that you want to sign up early, because the classes fill up pretty fast.

I was also looking into some of the camp style paddling schools in NC/TN/WV areas. This route is pricey, but they seem to be good "boot camp" style courses which cover a broad range of subjects in one visit. From what I have found through trolling the web, it seems that both the NOC and ACE paddling schools would be a good choice. I liked the look of the ACE school in WV partially because they have a lake that has a lot of fun stuff for the non-kayaking part of the family to enjoy while you are off at class. This could be semi-easily be disguised as a family camping vacation.. Best of luck.

-Mike

Sam:
My son and I took lessons from Virginia Outdoor Center in Fredricksburg. We live in West Point and it only took us a little over an hour to get there. They are reasonbly priced and ore very friendly there as well. Give me a call to paddle as well since we are so near each other. I have a couple of friends that I work with that paddle also.
Robbie

U.Va. Outdoor Recreation also offers Beginning Kayak, Roll, Advanced Beginner Kayak, and Swift Water Rescue classes.

If interested, contact Mark Voorhees at (434) nine two four 62O2 (and tell him I need a raise ).

I learned how to roll from the Virginia Outdoor Center and the class was great. Their website is www.playva.com

Hey Guys,

Thanks for all the advice! Its nice to hear that there are a lot of good programs around. Right now, it looks like VOC would work out great since I have in-laws in that area, good excuse to drive up there with the wife to see them for the weekend. Dave, if I end up going towards U Va. I see what I can do about that raise. Robbie, I will definitely look you up when it gets warmer this spring.

Thanks again for the help!

Sam