Kayaking for all levels
Explore classes, sessions, and paddling experiences for every level — from first-time paddlers to advanced.
Classes & experiences
Essential equipment provided: Kayak, Paddle, PFD. Most classes launch from Brooklyn Bridge Park, with select offerings at ACA Lake Sebago (Harriman State Park) and other locations.
Beginner
Intro to Kayaking - ACA L1
Develop confidence, efficiency, and new skills in strokes and maneuvers. Bracing techniques are introduced.
Develop confidence, efficiency, and new skills in strokes and maneuvers. Bracing techniques are introduced.
Duration: Full day
Criteria: L1
Price: $150
Tuesday Practice Sessions
Hone skills & learn new techniques in small group practice with an instructor. For paddlers at ACA L1 to L3, comfortable with wet exits
Time: 5:45–8pm
Duration: 90 min class
Price: $25
Trip to Red Hook
Paddle through Buttermilk Channel past historic warehouses to Valentino Pier beach. 1-hr break to explore Red Hook. Beginner-friendly, exciting for all levels.
Duration: 3-5 hours
Price: $XX.XX
ACA L1 Assessment
Demonstrate foundational kayaking skills and knowledge in protected waters. Receive ACA documentation of your Level 1 paddling ability.
Duration: 1 day
Criteria: ACA membership
Price: $75
Intermediate
Essentials of Kayak Touring -
ACA L2 Skills
Develop confidence, efficiency, and new skills in strokes and maneuvers. Bracing techniques are introduced.
Duration: Full day
Criteria: L1
Price: $150
Instructor Certification Workshop - ACA L2
Four-day workshop (ICW) to become an ACA-certified L2 Instructor. Includes development training and certification exam.
Duration: 4 days
Criteria: ACA L2
Elegant Blade
Master efficient, elegant paddle technique through demonstration, experimentation, and games. Develop skill that's quiet, cool, and maximizes your energy on the water.
Duration: 1.5 hours
Criteria: L2 skills
Price: $40
Wednesday Rolling sessions
Practice kayak rolling foundations. Includes bracing, hip snap, body and finishing position. Work with an instructor and group practice.
Time: 5:45–8pm
Duration: 90 min class
Criteria: L2 skills
Price: $25
Let's get wet! Tow & Rescue
Master self-rescue and group rescue techniques at Lake Sebago. Practice essential to advanced recovery skills and discover what works best in different scenarios.
Duration: Full day
Criteria: L2 skills
Location: Lake Sebago
Price: $125
ACA L2 Skills Assessment
Demonstrate touring skills including bracing, rescue techniques, and trip planning. Confirm your paddling ability in protected waters with mild conditions.
Duration: Full day
Criteria: ACA membership
Price: $100
Advanced
ACA L3 Coastal Kayaking
Develop proficiency for moderate coastal conditions with wind, waves, and current. Master advanced strokes, rescues, and open water techniques.
Duration: 2 full days
Criteria: L2 skills
Price: $300
L3 Strokes & Maneuvers
Refine stroke efficiency and blending while advancing edging and leaning techniques. Build comfort and control for more dynamic paddling conditions.
Duration: Full day
Criteria: L2 skills
Price: $150
Lumpy Waters - ACA L4
Master rough water skills including beach launches, surf zone techniques, and control in moving water. Learn edging, bracing, and safety in dynamic conditions.
Duration: Full day
Criteria: Solid L3 skills
Location: Democrat Point, LI
Price: $150
Bouncy Currents
Master paddling and rescue techniques in swift harbor currents. Play and experiment in dynamic water conditions.
Duration: Half day
Criteria: L3 skills
Price: $100