Our programs take place rain or shine, but strong winds, lightning, unsafe water conditions, or water quality concerns may result in cancellation or limited activity.

Programs may also be cancelled if rainfall reaches 1 inch or more within the previous 24 hours, which can affect water quality.

If a program is affected, we will keep participants updated as far in advance as possible. If The Kayak Foundation cancels a program for any reason, participants will receive a full refund.

We provide your kayak or stand-up paddleboard, paddle, and life vest — everything you need for a safe and enjoyable on-water experience. Any additional gear requirements will be noted in the class or trip details.

Participants are responsible for bringing their own food, water, gear, and other essential supplies.

All paddlers are required to wear a life vest while on the water — no exceptions — and must follow the directions of instructors and staff at all times.

Participants must be able to hear and understand instructions, communicate with instructors and staff, enter, exit, and sit in a kayak without assistance, hold and use a paddle, hold their breath underwater, and keep their head above water while wearing a life vest.

For general questions, you can reach us anytime at info@kayakfoundation.org.

We try to respond quickly, but please allow up to one to two business days.

After you register for a specific class, your instructor will share the best way to reach them, usually by email and often by phone. In most cases, you can expect a response the same day or by the next day.

All participants must sign a waiver before going out in a kayak or on a stand-up paddleboard. The waiver can be completed online through the Universal Waiver.

Assessments are for paddlers who already have the required experience and want a formal evaluation.

• Skills course: Learn and practice new paddling skills.

• Skills assessment: Have your current skills evaluated against an ACA standard. This is not the same as a class.

• Instructor certification: Training and evaluation for paddlers who want to teach ACA courses.

• Endorsement: Endorsement: Additional specialty training for instructors who are already ACA certified. Examples may include teaching rolling, trip leading, adaptive paddling, or other specialized skills not covered in standard instructor certification.

Not sure which one is right for you?
Please contact us before registering.

You — and anything you bring on the water — should be expected to get wet.

Please dress accordingly and avoid bringing items that cannot get wet, including unprotected phones, hearing aids, other electronics, loose jewelry, or anything you would not want exposed or lost to the water.

If you need to bring essential items, protect them in a secure dry bag or waterproof case.