Buying this as a gift for someone else?  When you check out, under date write in "GIFT CERTIFICATE" this will purchase the class, but but allow you (or the recipient)  to select the date at a later time.

Introduction to Sea Kayaking: 
This class is a prerequisite to our club- About the CLUB
SPECIAL - sign up for both the class and membership at the same time and save $35 off your membership dues
Cost  of class: $80   Length 3-4 hours Cost of class/Membership w/ discount = $145-DEAL!!
 This class is for beginners or those who would like a refresher!   This is an easy, fun class and a great way to get acquainted with kayaking in a beautiful wildlife area 30 minutes north of Chicago. You will learn the basic skills to have fun and be safe!

What we cover:
Gear needed - full description of what you need, how to use it, and where to buy it!

Kayak Design - picking the boat that is best for you whether you are buying or rent them on vacation. Learn what to look for and how to not get a dud!

Stretching (on land and in your boat out on the water) a great way to warm up those muscles!

Safety Procedures - how to properly fit your PFD, what precautions should you take, determining what conditions are appropriate for your skill level.

How to chose a proper kayak paddle, where to position your hands

Strokes - tour (forward), reverse stroke, sweep, stroke, reverse sweep, and draw strokes

Hip Snap/J- lean -Learn how to control your kayak - using techniques that you might not think would work, but do!

Wet Exit- learn how to safely exit your kayak in the event of capsize.  This is learned on land and practiced on the water.

T-Rescue - learn how to reenter your kayak in the event of capsize or how to help someone else who capsized.  This is practiced with an instructor and other students while out on the water.

The class time posted is the time class Starts, please arrive early to change, use the restroom, or whatever you require.  Late arrivals may miss out on the class.  If you arrive 20 minutes after class has started, you will have to sign up again and pay again, so please plan accordingly. 

Check the weather, construction, etc.  Is Bluesfest going on? What about a Cubs or Sox game? Plan for traffic and arrive early. Bring a map and print out the directions the this web site. We cover a lot of important things right in the beginning of class, so if you are late - we would have to delay the whole class to get you up to speed, not fair to those who came on time, so PLEASE arrive on time and ready to go.

Contact us at chicagokayak@comcast.net
Cancellations for local classes must be made one full week in advance to reschedule or get a refund. FL classes and trips are NON REFUNDABLE - be sure before you register!