Sea Kayaking Fundamentals

This module is a practical workshop to help prepare expedition members / leaders who are intending to explore Arctic regions where serious ice conditions will be encountered. (which is why you wanted to go there in the first place).

Geographical areas: Understanding and choosing your expedition area, how to find information. Transferable skills / knowledge. Getting yourself and equipment on site. Types of extended expedition kayak – pros and cons. Insurance and permits.

Detailed Map / chart Work: Anticipating and understanding local tidal streams, eddies, wind, swell and sea bed topography to predict ice movement and build up. Coastal drift and its effect on your local area.

The effect of tides and tidal range: Roll over’s, constrictions, pressure points, explosions’ – Glacier fronts and what makes calving ice.

Types of ice / conditions:

The effect of winter sea ice, ice bergs, pan ice, pack ice. Moving ice, its consolidation and associated hazards.

Leads, shore breaks, ice edge, wind, tide, eddies and swell. Safety on water vs on the Ice in extreme circumstances .

Optimum Ice conditions vs Hazards from not enough ice

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Optimum Ice conditions vs Hazards from not enough ice

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Group / individual roles / responsibilities

Seat of your pants navigation in moving ice, satellite navigation, ice observation. Escape routes.

Not getting lost and plan B and C

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Ice landings and seal launches

Why, when, where, how – techniques.

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Choosing a camp site

Minimal trace camping, finding water, camp fire, Fox and Bear hazards.

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Specialist Equipment

Based on your initial research. Availability of, and the selection of suitable Guns for Polar Bear defence etc

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My Top Tips

Learning from others and my mistakes.

The ISKGA Sea Kayaking Fundamentals – Level One is an entry-level course intended for participants who might be classed as beginner sea kayakers. This course is aimed at building-up a novice paddler’s understanding of, and proficiency in, the basics of core Technical; Rescue; Expedition; and Navigational Skills. It is intended that all participants will take time to practice and perfect skills introduced before moving on to the next level.

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Course Outcomes:

The planned outcome is to develop an efficient paddler who is environmentally aware; who is able to be safe; and is efficient in basic rescues when required.

Trainer Qualifications: ISKGA Coastal Guide / Advanced Guide.

Environmental Conditions: Up to Beaufort F2. Protected / Sheltered Waters.

Duration: 4 days. Either delivered as a block or over two 2-day periods.

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Technical Skills:

Efficient Forward Paddling

The aim is to develop effective forward paddling technique over a distance. Participants will be instructed on the benefits of good posture; core body rotation; and efficient power transfer. A participant will be encouraged to experiment with high; mid; and low paddle angles to experience the power difference and their various practical uses.

Static Turning

The outcome of instruction will be that a participant is able to show positive core body rotation and paddle positioning, with a foundation application of edge control, to enable an effective turn whilst using forward and reverse sweeping strokes.

Turning on the Move

The outcome of instruction will be that a participant is able to apply simple, effective strokes to turn a sea kayak on the move. A participant will be able to demonstrate the foundations of edge control; rudders strokes; and forward / reverse sweep strokes.

Moving Sideways

The outcome of instruction will be that a participant is able to demonstrate the beginnings of maneuvering their kayak sideways by showing an understanding of trunk rotation; blade awareness; and inside/outside edge control.

Support Strokes

The outcome of instruction will be that a participant is able to demonstrate the foundation technique of high and low recovery stokes.

Rescues and Recovery:

The outcome of instruction will be that a participant is able to effectively rescue a fellow paddler using a variety of techniques and applying the principles of STOP.

Rescues:

Deep Water Rescue – Unconscious Capsize Recovery – Self Rescue.

Towing Systems:

Demonstrate that they can move a paddler a distance of 20 meters using a Bow Carry and a Toggle Tow.

Expedition Skills:

The outcome of instruction will be that a participant is able to demonstrate an understanding of how to effectively load and prepare a sea kayak for a multi-day voyage. They will be able to show an understanding of the various food options available for expedition paddling. Participant will be introduced to simple camp craft skills such as safe water management; fire preparation; emergency shelter building; and how to manage personal hygiene and waste.

Navigation, Meteorology and Seamanship:

The outcome of instruction will be that a participant understands the importance of completing a Float Plan; having an effective shore support party; and what is required from them. A participant will be given information on the relationship between the HM Coastguard, the RNLI (or other rescue agencies) and sea kayakers. Participants will be shown basic hand and paddle signals.

The participant will be introduced to basic navigation, meteorology and oceanography information. This will include topics such as: differences between an on-shore and off shore wind; the effects of tide and wind; the differences between wind waves and pressure driven waves; the effects of compression on tidal flow, such as headlands, shallow waters etc. Participants will be shown how to take a compass bearing; measuring distance; and determine position. Participants will be informed how to obtain a weather forecast; how to apply these forecasts; and be shown resources for obtaining weather information.

Rope work:

At Level One rope work should be introduced to participants and the following outcomes should be achieved – joining two ropes together; creating a knot that can bind and constrict; a ‘Stopper’ knot; and a ‘Hold Fast’ knot.

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Version 2.1.o

Review Date: 01 May 2016

The ISKGA Sea Kayaking Fundamentals – Level Two is aimed at sea kayakers wishing to build upon and improve their foundation knowledge in core Technical; Rescue; First Aid; Expedition; and Navigational Skills. It is intended that all participants will take time to practice and perfect skills introduced before moving on to the next level.

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Course Outcomes:

The planned outcome is to further a participant’s understanding of technical strokes to assist in being able to control a sea kayak in more dynamic conditions. At this level participants are developing into more proficient members of a sea kayaking group. Level Two sea kayakers are able to assist in a variety of rescues; apply a greater variety of strokes; and demonstrate an understanding of how the effects of wind, wave and tide can be negotiated through effective paddle use and kayak control.

Trainer Qualifications: ISKGA Coastal Guide / Advanced Guide.

Environmental Conditions: Up to Beaufort F3. Sheltered / Moderate Waters.

Duration: 5 days. This can be completed as part of a multi-day expedition.

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Technical Skills:

Where possible environmental features will be used to add context to the application of strokes. For example, viewing the inside of a cave by paddling backwards; negotiating gaps between rocks by using stern rudders and draw strokes, etc.

Efficient Forward Paddling

The outcome of instruction will be that a participant is able to display effective core body rotation and blade control in producing the correct power for the conditions and task. When paddling down wind/wave, the participant shall be introduced to the trailing paddle for both support and direction.

Efficient Backward Paddling

The outcome of instruction will be that a participant is able to display effective backwards paddling using the back of the blade and awareness of observation required as well as maintaining bow transits to assist in directional control.

Static Turning

The outcome of instruction will be that a participant is able to show positive core body rotation and paddle position by utilising correct blade angle, with a confident application of edge control, to enable an efficient turn whilst using sweep strokes. An application of ‘climbing blade’ angle to support the edging of the kayak and correct blade entry and exit should be re-enforced at this level

Turning on the Move

The outcome of instruction will be that a participant is able to apply effective strokes to turn a sea kayak on the move. Developing the ability to show autonomy of the bow/stern rudders; forward and reverse sweeps; application of inside and outside edging; and leaning the kayak to assist the turning action

Moving Sideways

The outcome of instruction will be that a participant is able to show effective core body rotation and paddle positioning to progressively move the kayak sideways. This may include draws on the move, as well as hanging and prying strokes.

Support and Recovery Strokes

The outcome of instruction will be that a participant is able to show a confident technique of high and low recovery strokes; and bracing strokes in appropriate conditions.

Kayak Roll

The outcome of instruction will be that a participant is able to apply the fundamentals of a kayak roll and demonstrate effective paddle positioning along with coordinated body motion to achieve a roll in a flat-water environment.

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Rescues and Recovery:

The outcome of instruction will be that a participant is able to effectively rescue a fellow paddler using a variety of techniques and applying the principles of STOP and SAFER in more dynamic conditions

Rescues:

Deep Water Rescue; Bow & Back Deck Carry; Unconscious Capsize Recovery; Scoop (Face Up & Down)

Towing Systems:

The outcome of instruction will be that a participant is able to show an understanding of various towing methods with and without a tow-line including ‘V’ Push/Pull; Contact tows; Short tows; Long tows; In-line towing; Rafted tows).

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Expedition Skills:

The outcome of instruction will be that a participant is able to demonstrate an understanding of how to prepare effectively for a multi-day voyage.

Participants will build upon expedition skills learnt at Level One and become familiar with fire lighting; camp craft; shelter building; water hygiene; and basic foraging identification and techniques.

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Navigation, Oceanography and Meteorology:

The outcome of instruction will be that a participant is able to further apply learning in the planning of a journey in moderate conditions through their understanding of charts usage and tidal information along with relating weather forecasts and swell reports to form a realistic overview of a proposed trip.

Participants will explore wave formation by looking at different wave types and the way in which seabed morphology can affect wave shape, rip currents as well as look at the effect of wind on the surf zone.

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First Aid:

The outcome of instruction will be that a participant is able to show ways in which they used to assist a qualified first aider in performing certain tasks to enable effective casualty care. This will be covered through scenario based exercises as well as using training aids such as Resuscitation Dummies.

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Version 2.1.0

Review Date: 01 May 2016‍

The ISKGA Sea Kayaking Fundamentals – Level Three is the level whereby the individual paddler will be able to utilise their Technical; Rescue; First Aid; Expedition; and Navigation Skills within a dynamic environment. It is intended that all participants will take time to practice and perfect skills introduced before moving on to assessment at this level. The Level three award is the prerequisite award to attend the ISKGA Coastal guide training.

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A competent ISKGA Level 3 sea kayaker should be deemed to be an asset to a group on a single-day voyage or a multi-day expedition.

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Course Outcomes:

The planned outcome is that a participant will know how to load their sea kayak for a multi-day expedition and be supportive of the group leader in the duties of expedition leadership. This is in areas of rescue and camp craft.

An accomplished Level Three sea kayaker will know how to conduct repairs; how to rescue a casualty; how to assemble a variety of tows; and have a sound understanding of navigation and planning, both on land and at sea. A successful participant will be able to control a sea kayak effectively in winds of up to Beaufort Force 4; a running sea of up to three feet; launching and landing effectively in dynamic surf; rolling a sea kayak upright after an inadvertent capsize; and, if it has been necessary to exit the craft, practically demonstrate an understanding of the steps required to re-enter.

Trainer Qualifications: ISKGA Coastal Guide / Advanced Guide.

Environmental Conditions: Up to Beaufort F4. Moderate Sea State.

Duration: 5 days. This can be completed as part of a multi-day expedition.

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Technical Skills

Where possible dynamic environmental features will be used to add context to the application of strokes, rescues and towing techniques. Also included will be launching and landing through surf; entering and exiting tidal flow; eddy line navigation; and effective paddling in wind.

Efficient Forward and Backwards Paddling

The outcome of instruction will be that a participant is able to show effective forward and backwards paddling in a variety of environments which include the surf zone; clapotic wave action; head/ following/ side winds; across eddy lines and tidal flow.

Static Turning

The outcome of instruction will be that a participant is able to show positive core body rotation and paddle position along with a confident application of edge control, to enable an effective turn in variety of conditions. A participant will be able to demonstate efficiency while turning in wind, wave and tidal flow, utilising good body and blade position with minimal use of strokes.

Turning on the Move

The outcome of instruction will be that a participant is able to apply various strokes effectively to turn a sea kayak on the move. A participant will develop the ability to show autonomy in the usage of appropriate ruddering and sweeping strokes.

Moving Side ways

The outcome of instruction will be that a participant is able to show effective core body rotation and paddle positioning to progressively move the kayak sideways. This will include draws on the move, as well as hanging and prying strokes. A participant will have applied tactics to negotiate obstacle, having learnt how to position a sea kayak in dynamic conditions.

Support and Bracing Strokes

The outcome of instruction will be that a participant is able to show confident application of high and low recovery strokes in dynamic swell and surf conditions, as well as safe execution of bracing on a surf wave.

Sculling for support

The outcome of instruction will be that a participant is able to demonstrate their understanding of the sculling support stroke for use in katabatic winds or strong down drafts. A participant will be able to show good commitment lying over the water with the sea kayak inclined towards the stroke.

Kayak Roll

The outcome of instruction will be that a participant is able to demonstrate effective paddle positioning along with coordinated body motion to achieve a roll on both sides in dynamic conditions.

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Rescues and Recovery:

The outcome of instruction will be that a participant is able to confidently rescue a fellow paddler using a variety of techniques and applying the principles of conducting a personal rescue risk assessment following the STOP process, in more dynamic conditions.

Rescues:

Deep Water Rescue – Bow & Back Deck Carry – Unconscious Capsize Recovery – Scoop (Face Up & Down)

Towing Systems:

The outcome of instruction will be that a participant is able to show an understanding of various towing methods with and without a tow-line including ‘V’ Push/Pull; Contact tows; Short tows; Long tows; In-line towing; Rafted tows;).

Surf Zone Rescues:

The outcome of instruction will be that a participant is able to show an understanding of towing techniques of a raft, and capsize rescues, in the surf environment. A participant will be able to demonstrate the ability to land and launch in surf using appropriate techniques.

Rock Garden:

The outcome of instruction will be that a participant is able to negotiate rock garden obstacles and show an understanding of the need for adhering to good group control within this environment, while undertaking various rescues in gullies and caves.

Repairs:

The outcome of instruction will be that a participant is able to perform a variety of realistic repairs on a sea kayak and related equipment.

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Expedition Skills:

The outcome of instruction will be that a participant is able to demonstrate an understanding of how to effectively prepare for a multi-day voyage.

Participants will build upon expedition skills learnt at Level Two and show confidence in constructing a temporary shelter; making and lighting a fire; show how to source and collect water; as well as prepare a warm and nutritious meal.

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Navigation, Oceanography and Meteorology:

The outcome of instruction will be that a participant is able to further apply learning in the planning of a journey in moderate conditions through their understanding of charts usage and tidal information along with relating weather forecasts and swell reports to form a realistic overview of a proposed trip.

Participants will explore wave formation by looking at different wave types and the way in which seabed morphology can affect wave shape and rip currents as well as looking at the effect of wind on the surf zone.

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First Aid:

The outcome of instruction will be that a participant is able to show how to effectively deal with a number of injury related scenarios and apply appropriate first aid.

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Version 2.1.1

Review Date: 01 May 2016