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The Ottawa River provides the perfect venue for learning how to whitewater kayak. With its deep, warm waters and endless channels, there is a fun adventure for everyone.
During the 2 day beginner program, you will learn the necessary skills to paddle a whitewater kayak in Class I-III Whitewater! Whether you are moving from flat-water paddling or sea kayaking or have no experience in a boat at all, this class is the place to start your whitewater kayaking adventure!
Begin each day learning and practicing strokes, concepts and getting comfortable doing wet exits and beginning steps of the kayak roll with your Ottawa Kayak School professional instructor.
This program is designed for you to progress your skills at a comfortable pace from flat-water to the river and put your skills to work on beginner-level rapids under the coaching of your instructor.
Our beginner level programs are the perfect foundation for strong skill development and understanding.
Choose from 2 day, 3 day, and 5 day beginner programs.
For paddlers serious about progressing quickly, we highly recommend our 5-day beginner program. There’s no replacement for “seat time”, students are able to log more river time with our instructors and learn through repetition.
Skills You’ll Learn and Develop:
Teens are welcome for our 2, 3, and 5-day programs when accompanied by an adult 18+
Are you local to the Ottawa River Valley or don’t need the overnights and meals? Ask about the Locals Rate! Arrive at 8 am daily and we are typically done our days at 4:30 pm.
3 Days of Whitewater Kayak Instruction:
Trip timing can vary depending on daily river conditions. Our professional Instructors always prioritize safety and guest enjoyment!
Professional Instructors:
Ottawa Kayak School instructors are known for their industry-leading skills, as well as their friendly personalities and positive attitudes.
Equipment Included:
When you take a beginner course at OKS, the kayak, helmet, paddle, sprayskirt, personal flotation device, and wetsuit are included!
Ottawa Kayak School is the world’s first Jackson Kayak super school. Choose mild or wild (AntiX 2.0 or Rockstar V) as you begin your whitewater kayaking adventure!
8 Meals Included:
Starting with breakfast at the beginning of your first on-water day and ending with lunch on your final on-water day.
3 Nights of Camping Included:
All Ottawa Kayak School programs include a campsite, however, camping equipment is not included.
Daily Shuttle Included:
Each day begins by meeting your OKS instuctor at the Rafters Pavilion. After breakfast, a daily orientation and gear loading, you will board the bus which takes the class to the river. Each day ends at Rafters Pavilion within walking-distance from your vehicle.
Our local rate includes on-water instruction and your lunches for a reduced rate of $599 per person.
This discount is simple, when you book 4 friends to any Ottawa Kayak School program your trip is 50% off! To redeem this discount please send us an e-mail: [email protected]
Kayaking clubs are so important to the longevity of the whitewater kayaking community. In recognition of their importance Ottawa Kayak School has a special discount for kayak clubs and their organizers.
Choose any one of our preexisting beginner or intermediate 2, 3, or 5-day programs.
When you book 5 for one instructor and 10% off per person.
5+ for two instructors and 20% off per person.
10+ for three instructors and 25% off per person.
Want to add an additional instructors? It’s $175 per day.
The Ottawa Kayak School at Wilderness Tours provides the primary gear needed for all beginner kayak courses including kayaks, paddles, PFD’s, helmets, spray skirts, and wetsuits (top and bottoms) for colder days.
*Please ask your instructor about our coin operated lockers or you always have the option to leave your personal belongings in your car or accommodation, our instructors will have a lockable key box which you’re welcome to leave your keys in prior to each day of kayaking.*
*Please note: we do not offer drytops or paddle jackets*
All participants must be at least 18 years old OR weigh at least 90 lbs to be participate in this instruction program. No prior experience necessary.
All minors (17 and under) must be accompanied by a participating adult during the activity.
Participants must meet age, weight, and chest size minimums and maximums for the specific trip they are partaking.
Need some more information? Check out our FAQ’s section or send us an e-mail at [email protected]
Arrival & Check-in:
Your kayak program begins with a 7 pm briefing at Rafter’s Pavilion followed directly by a meet and greet with other kayak school participants.
Day 1 | Gearing up & on water:
To best prepare for your time on the water please do not wear any cotton clothing and choose either closed toe shoes or sandals with a heel strap as your footwear.
Day 2 | Time for Whitewater:
All Ottawa Kayak School programs are designed with progression in mind. Our instructors will help you implement your newly learned skills throughout the day.
Day 3 | Middle Channel of the Ottawa River:
The progression continues as our instructors continue to help you implement new skills during your first trip down the Middle Channel of the Ottawa River! This is the main reason to choose the 3 Day Beginner over the 2 Day Beginner.
Note: Prices are subject to 13% HST & $15/day/person Park Pass
*Holiday Rate, **Spring & September Discount – Opening Weekend – and After Labor Day Weekend.
Accommodation Upgrades:
Receive a 40% discount on all accommodation upgrades by booking a multi-day whitewater kayak program.
Stayover Package:
Stayover packages bundle your choice of activity with an additional dinner, breakfast, and a night of camping.
Storage Lockers:
Coin operated storage lockers can be found on-site to keep your valuables safe while you are on the river.
Airport Shuttles:
Can be arrange, please contact Ottawa Kayak School via e-mail at [email protected]
All Prices reflect nightly rate with 40% discount applied in Canadian Dollars:
Smaller Units:
Bayside Suites: – $119.40 Sun-Thurs & $143.40 Fri-Sat
Cedar Cabins: – $95.40 Sun-Thurs & $113.40 Fri-Sat
Eco Cedar Cabins: – $107.40 Sun-Thurs & $137.40 Fri-Sat
Super Deluxe Cedar Cabins: $149.40 Sun-Thurs & $173.40 Fri-Sat
Glamping Tent: – $77.40 per night
Hostel Cabin Mini: – $59.40 Sun-Thurs & $77.40 Fri-Sat
Hostel Cabin Plus: – $71.40 Sun-Thurs & $95.40 Fri-Sat
Hostel Motel: – $50.40 Sun-Thurs & $68.40 Fri-Sat
Hostel Motel Plus: – $59.40 Sun-Thurs & $77.40 Fri-Sat
Larger Units:
The Cottage Loft: – $101.40 Sun-Thurs & $137.40 Fri-Sat
The Cottage Main: – $179.40 Sun-Thurs & $239.40 Fri-Sat
London House Center: – $179.40 Sun-Thurs & $239.40 Fri-Sat
London House East: – $143.40 Sun-Thurs & $191.40 Fri-Sat
London House West: – $143.40 Sun-Thurs & $191.40 Fri-Sat
The Manor Main: – $299.40 Sun-Thurs & $401.40 Fri-Sat
The Manor Master: – $155.40 Sun-Thurs & $221.40 Fri-Sat
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