The Ottawa River is the ideal location for learning how to whitewater kayak, thanks to its deep, warm waters and endless channels that offer a range of exciting adventures for kayakers of all levels. Whether you’re new to kayaking or transitioning from flat-water paddling or sea kayaking, the Ottawa River offers a perfect setting to begin your whitewater kayaking journey.
Our 3-day beginner whitewater kayaking program is designed to teach you the essential skills needed to navigate Class I-III whitewater. Whether you have no prior kayaking experience or are looking to refine your existing skills, this program is the perfect starting point for your whitewater kayaking adventure.
Each day, you’ll focus on key kayaking techniques such as proper strokes, basic kayak maneuvers, and getting comfortable with critical safety skills like wet exits and the kayak roll. Our professional instructors at Ottawa Kayak School will guide you through each step, ensuring you gain both confidence and competence on the water.
This program is specifically designed to help you progress at your own pace, starting with flat-water practice before moving onto river conditions. By the end of the program, you’ll be able to apply your new skills to beginner-level rapids, all under the careful guidance of our experienced instructors.
Whether you’re brand new to kayaking or transitioning from other paddling sports, our beginner-level programs provide the perfect foundation for strong skill development and a deeper understanding of whitewater kayaking.
We offer flexibility with our beginner whitewater kayaking courses, including 2-day, 3-day, and 5-day programs. For those looking to make faster progress, we highly recommend the 5-day beginner program. With more seat time on the river, you’ll gain valuable hands-on experience and improve your skills through repetition.
Our 2-day, 3-day, and 5-day beginner programs are also available for teens (ages 13 and up), provided they are accompanied by an adult (18+). This is a great opportunity for families or groups to learn together and share the excitement of whitewater kayaking.
If you’re local to the Ottawa River Valley and don’t require overnight accommodations or meals, take advantage of our Locals Rate! Simply arrive at 8 AM each day, and we’ll be finished by 4:30 PM. This option allows residents to participate in the program while saving on accommodation and meals.
Our 3-day whitewater kayaking course offers the perfect opportunity to improve your paddling skills in a supportive, hands-on environment. Please note that trip timing can vary depending on daily river conditions, ensuring that you get the best experience based on current water levels. At Ottawa Kayak School, we prioritize safety and guest enjoyment, so you can focus on learning while having fun on the river.
At Ottawa Kayak School, our professional instructors are recognized for their industry-leading skills as well as their friendly personalities and positive attitudes. Whether you’re new to whitewater kayaking or looking to refine your skills, our instructors create a supportive and encouraging environment to help you succeed.
When you sign up for a beginner whitewater kayaking course at OKS, all essential kayaking gear is included. This includes a kayak, helmet, paddle, sprayskirt, personal flotation device (PFD), and wetsuit. By providing all the necessary equipment, we ensure that you are fully prepared to embark on your kayaking adventure without any hassle.
As the world’s first Jackson Kayak Super School, Ottawa Kayak School offers the chance to choose between two top-of-the-line kayaks: the AntiX 2.0 for a smoother ride or the Rockstar V for a more thrilling, wild experience. Choose the kayak that suits your style and get ready for an unforgettable adventure!
Our program includes 8 meals, starting with a delicious breakfast on your first day of paddling and ending with a satisfying lunch on your final day on the river. Enjoy healthy, energy-boosting meals designed to keep you fueled for your kayaking sessions.
As part of the Ottawa Kayak School program, you’ll enjoy 3 nights of camping. While camping equipment is not provided, the campsite offers a great opportunity to relax and bond with fellow kayakers after a day of learning and paddling. Enjoy the natural beauty of the area, making your kayaking experience even more memorable.
Each day of your program begins with meeting your instructor at Rafters Pavilion. After a daily orientation and gear loading, you’ll board our comfortable shuttle bus which will take you directly to the river. At the end of the day, the shuttle will return you to Rafters Pavilion, which is conveniently located within walking distance of your vehicle. This ensures a smooth and convenient experience, allowing you to focus on your kayaking skills.
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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