Kayaking for all levels
Explore classes for every level, from first-time paddlers to advanced.
Classes & Experiences
Essential equipment provided includes: kayak, paddle, and PFD. Assessments and Certifications require an ACA Membership. Most classes launch from Brooklyn Bridge Park, with select offerings at ACA Lake Sebago, Harriman State Park and other locations.
Beginner
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Intro to Kayaking - ACA L1
Learn basic kayaking paddle strokes and maneuver techniques to give you a strong foundation. No previous paddling experience or training needed.
Full day
$150 -
Kayak Skill Sessions (Tue, Sat)
If you’ve taken a TKF kayak class previously, get some practice on the water in informal sessions with a certified instructor.
Prerequisite: Instructor approval
5:45–8pm Tues
90 min practice
$25
Intermediate
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Essentials of Kayaking - ACA L2
Become a more efficient and confident paddler. Learn new safety and recovery skills, refine essential strokes and maneuvers. Prerequisite: L1 skills.
Pier 4 Brooklyn Bridge Park and Lake Sebago
Full day
$150 -
ACA L2 Skills Assessment
This skills assessment course will evaluate whether your paddling skills, experience, and knowledge meet the criteria for ACA Level 2 and an ACA membership
Full day
$150 -
Elegant Blade
Focus on the details to help fine-tune your strokes and maneuvers. Prerequisite: L2 kayaking skills or permission of instructor.
1.5 hours
$40 -
Bracing & Rolling
Practice kayak rolling foundations. L2 kayaking skills required. Includes bracing, hip snap, body and finishing position. Work with an instructor and group practice.
5:45–8pm / 90 min class
$35 -
Let's Get Wet! Flat Water Fun
Sharpen your rescue reflexes (and have a lot of fun doing it!) in this class held at Lake Sebago in Harriman State Park. Prerequisite: L2 skills or permission of instructor.
6 hours
$100 -
Swim Support Workshop
Learn effective techniques for paddling as kayak support for open-water swimmers. Prerequisite: L2 skills or permission of instructor.
3 hours
$25 -
Instructor Certification - ACA L2
Four-day certification (IDW & ICE) to become an ACA-certified Level 2 Instructor. Prerequisite: ACA L2 Assessment
4 days - 2027
$TBD -
Rescues & Towing
Practice self-rescue, assisted rescue, and towing, including T rescue, bow rescue, scoop, and hand-of-god. Plenty of in-water repetition to build confidence and response skills.
Full day
$150
Advanced
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Strokes & Maneuvers - ACA L3 Skills
Refine core strokes and maneuvers to build control, efficiency, and confidence on the water. Strengthen the fundamentals needed to progress into more advanced paddling.
Prerequisite: L2 skills
Full day
$150 -
ACA L3 Coastal Kayaking - 2 day Workshop
Develop proficiency for moderate coastal conditions with wind, waves, and current. Master advanced strokes, rescues, and open water techniques.
Prerequisite: L2 skills
2 full days
$300 -
ACA L3 Skills Assessment
This course evaluates whether your paddling skills, experience, and knowledge meet the criteria for ACA Level 3: Coastal Kayaking.
Prerequisite: ACA member
Full day
$150 -
Bouncy Currents
Master paddling and rescue techniques in swift harbor currents. Play and experiment in dynamic water conditions.
Prerequisite: L3 skills
Half day
$100 -
Lumpy Waters - ACA L4
Master rough water skills and beach launches, surf zone techniques, and control in moving water. Learn edging, bracing, and safety in dynamic conditions of Democrat Point, LI.
Prerequisite: L3 skills
Full day
$150 -
Instructor Certification - ACA L3
Five-day certification (IDW & ICE) to become an ACA-certified Level 3 Instructor.
Prerequisite: ACA L3 Assessment
5 days - 2027
$TBD
Explore the season calendar for upcoming class dates and availability.
What to bring and wear.
Being prepared helps you stay comfortable, safe, and focused on learning. Whether you’re joining a summer class, a family paddle, or a more advanced cold-weather session, the right clothing and preparation make a meaningful difference on the water.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Our programs take place rain or shine, but strong winds or lightning will cause cancellation. We reserve the right to cancel or limit classes or trips due to weather or water conditions.
Events may be cancelled for water quality caution if it has rained 1 inch or more in the previous 24 hours.
Full refunds are made if The Kayak Foundation cancels a program for any reason.
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All paddlers are required to wear a life vest when on the water — no exceptions—and will need to follow the directions of our Instructor and staff.
Paddlers must be able to hear and understand instructions and communicate with the program instructor and staff, enter, exit and sit in a kayak without assistance, hold and move a kayak paddle, hold their breath under water and keep their head above water while wearing a life vest.
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We reserve the right to cancel or limit classes or trips due to weather or water conditions. Events may be cancelled for water quality caution if it has rained 1 inch or more in the previous 24 hours. Programs may be cancelled if a minimum number of participants (typically 2 or more) are not registered at least 48 hours in advance. The Kayak Foundation will make a full refund if it cancels a program for any reason.
If you cancel a reservation more than a week before a class, trip or session, The Kayak Foundation will refund 100% of the fee. If you cancel less than a week but more than 24 hours in advance of a class, trip or session, The Kayak Foundation will refund 50% of the fee. There is no refund if you cancel a reservation within 24 hours of a class, trip or session. Private or special classes and trips may have different cancellation provisions.
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We provide your kayak or standup paddleboard, paddle, and life vest—everything you need for a safe and fun experience.
For details on what you should bring and wear, go to What to know before you go for details and helpful recommendations.
Where to find us
Centrally located in Brooklyn Bridge Park
The Kayak Foundation
Pier 4 Visitor Center, Brooklyn Bridge Park
Email us: info@kayakfoundation.org
Allow up to 48 hrs for a reply.
Other TKF venues:
ACA Camp, Sebago Lake, Harriman State Park, NY