Lil Ripper

Kayaking is no longer just an adult sport. Because kids learn at different rates and in different ways than adults our instructors tailor your little kayakers’ experience with this in mind.

The Lil Ripper program, at the Ottawa Kayak School, is designed for promising up-and-coming children aged 8-12 who want to take their whitewater abilities to the next level. 

This week-long program (arrival Sunday evening) will take children with a roll and a basic understanding of whitewater and help them step up their game on the Ottawa River which provides the perfect venue for learning new skills in your whitewater kayak. With its deep, warm waters and endless channels, there is a challenge by choice at every rapid for every skill level.

Freestyle coaching on some of the Ottawa river’s world-class whitewater, opportunities to learn essential whitewater rescue skills, river reading and line selection, injury prevention, goal setting, and competition preparation. 

Lil Rippers also have to engage in daily diary writing reviews to help improve writing and self-reflection skills, all while having a ton of good old fashioned fun. 

Lil Ripper participants must be supervised by a parent or guardian in the evenings.

Are you local to the Ottawa River Valley or don’t need the overnights and meals? Ask about the day camp option! Arrive at 8 am daily and we are typically done our days at 4:30 pm. 

Note: booking day is either Friday or Sunday, but your arrival time everyday is still 8 am.

Don’t forget about the Ottawa Kayak School #1 Club! Book 4 friends to the Ottawa Kayak School and your trip is 50% off! Just like our rafting programs we also have a #1 Club for kayakers, bring 5 or more kayakers and receive a discount for the next season!

Need some more information? Check out our FAQ’s section or send us an e-mail at [email protected] 

ARRIVAL & CHECK-IN
Your Lil Ripper’s kayak program begins with a 7PM briefing followed directly by a meet and greet.

DAY 1 | GEARING UP & A REVIEW OF THE BASICS
To best prepare your Lil Ripper for their time on water with us, our coaches begin all of our intermediate and advanced programs with a review of the basics. From the way our boats and gear fit to our most basic techniques, our aim is to master the fundamentals.

  • Gearing Up
    Each program begins the same way: an orientation and personalized sizing of the equipment you will be using.
  • Safety Briefing
    Ottawa Kayak Instructors have your safety in mind. Before getting on the water, your instructor will explain the safety procedures for the day.
  • Let’s Kayak!
    Starting with a basics review and focusing on technique, your instructor will help you achieve your goals!
  • Lunch
    Rehydrate and refuel because your day is only half over!
  • More Kayaking!
    Continue challenging yourself! The second half of the day will build upon the first half of your instructor’s lesson plan.
  • Your arrival back to Park Village
    It’s been a full day of whitewater kayaking but don’t run off just yet! Your instructor will provide you with an itinerary for Day 2 and the evening’s entertainment options.

DAYS 2 – 5 | IMPLEMENTATION OF NEW SKILLS
As the program continues, our instructors will encourage your Lil Ripper, to take the skills they have learned in Day 1 and implement them in more dynamic scenarios providing feedback along the way through verbal coaching and video review.

 

5 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 sign up for a Kids Kayak Week or Lil Ripper course at OKS, the kayak, helmet, paddle, sprayskirt, personal flotation device, and wetsuit are included!

14 MEALS INCLUDED
Starting with breakfast at the beginning of your first on-water day and ending with lunch on your final on-water day.

5 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.

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 dinner, breakfast, and a campsite.

STORAGE LOCKERS
We have coin operated storage lockers to keep your valuables safe while you are on the river.

  • Monday - Friday

    Sunday Arrival

    $1179
  • Day Camp Rate

    Lunches only no stay over

    $949

Note: Prices are subject to 13% HST & $15/day/person Park Pass

*Holiday Rate,  **Spring & September Discount – Opening Weekend – and After Labor Day Weekend.

Choose Arrival Day to Begin Booking or Quote
OKS #1 CLUB

Book 4 friends to the Ottawa Kayak School and your trip is 50% off!

Just like our rafting programs we also have a #1 Club for kayakers, bring 5 or more kayakers and receive a discount for the next season!