Teaching your kids to kayak isn’t just about paddling skills — it’s an experience that will shape their future. While they master kayak techniques and water safety, they’ll also gain self-confidence, a vital life skill that will benefit them for years to come.
Kayaking is no longer reserved solely for adults. Today, kids are discovering the thrill of whitewater kayaking, and the Ottawa River provides the perfect environment for them to learn and thrive. Children absorb information differently than adults, and our expert instructors tailor the experience to meet the unique needs of younger paddlers. With a focus on fun, safety, and skill development, your child will enjoy every moment on the water.
Our kids kayak week runs from Sunday evening to Friday, offering an immersive experience that allows your child to fully embrace kayaking. They will learn on the safe, warm waters of the Ottawa River, known for its gentle currents and stunning landscapes, which provide an ideal setting for kids to explore the world of whitewater kayaking.
Throughout the week, your little kayaker will:
Our program is designed to ensure that your child has a balanced experience. Supervision is provided only during instruction times, allowing kids to focus on their learning. Outside of instruction hours, they’ll have plenty of free time to explore and enjoy the resort with their parents. This means that while your child is learning and growing, you can relax and enjoy the resort’s amenities, knowing they are in safe hands.
If you’re local to the Ottawa River Valley or prefer not to stay overnight, we offer a convenient day camp option. Drop off your child at 8:00–9:00 AM and pick them up by 4:30 PM. This flexible schedule ensures that your child can still benefit from our kayaking instruction without the need for overnight stays. To book your spot, use the Locals Booking link below.
Ready to give your child the gift of kayaking? This program is a life-changing opportunity to develop new skills, boost their self-esteem, and foster a love of adventure. Whether you’re enrolling for the full week or the day camp option, we’re excited to welcome your little kayaker to the Ottawa River for a summer they’ll never forget!
Embark on an unforgettable 5-day kayaking journey at the Ottawa Kayak School, where you’ll learn from the best in the industry while exploring one of the most iconic rivers in North America. Here’s what you can expect during your whitewater kayaking experience:
Throughout your 5-day adventure, the timing of your trip will vary depending on daily river conditions, ensuring an experience that’s both dynamic and exciting. Our professional instructors are dedicated to your safety and enjoyment, guiding you through every step of your journey as you gain the skills and confidence to tackle the mighty Ottawa River.
At Ottawa Kayak School, we pride ourselves on our team of expert instructors, who are recognized for their exceptional skills and enthusiastic personalities. Not only will you learn from the best, but you’ll also be supported in a fun and positive environment that fosters growth and learning.
Your adventure includes 14 tasty meals, starting with dinner on your arrival night and ending with a delicious lunch on your final day of kayaking. From nutritious breakfasts to energizing lunches, our meals are designed to fuel you throughout your exciting days on the water.
Every Ottawa Kayak School program includes 5 nights of camping. Stay in a comfortable campsite close to the river and enjoy the serenity of nature during your off-water time. While camping equipment is not included, we ensure that your accommodation is both comfortable and conveniently located for easy access to your daily kayaking lessons.
Each day, your adventure begins with a meeting at the Rafters Pavilion, where you’ll gather with your instructor and fellow paddlers. After a daily orientation and gear loading, the shuttle bus will take you directly to the river for your on-water experience. At the end of each day, the shuttle will return you to the Rafters Pavilion, which is within walking distance from your vehicle.
Our local rate includes on-water instruction and your lunches for a reduced rate of $949 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.
Participants must meet age range of 7-12, 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 7PM briefing followed directly by a meet and greet.
Day 1 | Gearing Up & Review of the Basics
To best prepare you for your time on water with us, our coaches begin all of our programs with the basics. From the way our boats and gear fit to our most basic techniques, our aim is to master the fundamentals.
Days 2 & 3 | Implementation of New Skills:
As the program continues, our instructors will encourage you, the participant, to take the skills you learned in Day 1 and implement them in more dynamic scenarios providing feedback along the way through verbal coaching and video review.
Day 4 | Continue Your Progression:
Our instructors will continue to help you progress during Day 4 to help prepare you for culmination day!
Day 5 | Culmination Day:
Challenge by choice will be the theme on culmination day. Our instructors will provide opportunities for you to use the new skills you’ve learned throughout the week and push yourself as far as you can!
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]
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