Dr. Marina AlcoverAcademic director focused on measurable results and operational excellence in maritime education. Integrates IMO/STCW regulations and ISO 21001/9001 f
Course · 300 h · 5 modules
Basic Kayak and Canoeing Course
Learn the essential techniques for safe paddling and enjoying nature from a unique perspective. This course will give you the tools you need to master paddling, balance, and steering, opening the door to exciting…
Duration300 h
FormatOnline
Starts21 December
Places20 / 20
Prior knowledge
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Programme overview
What is the Basic Kayak and Canoeing Course?
Discover the aquatic world with our Basic Kayaking and Canoeing course!
Learn the essential techniques for safe paddling and enjoying nature from a unique perspective. This course will give you the tools you need to master paddling, balance, and steering, opening the door to exciting adventures.
What will you learn?
- Fundamental paddling techniques: improve your efficiency and avoid injuries.
- Water safety: learn the protocols and preventative measures.
- Entering and exiting the kayak/canoe: master the techniques for different situations.
- Basic steering and maneuvers: navigate with control and precision.
- Reading the environment: learn to interpret weather and water conditions.
Programme type
Course
Study mode
Online
Duration
300 hours
Modules
5
Start date
08-12-2026
Programme highlights
- Fundamental Techniques: Master the essential maneuvers for safe and efficient kayaking or canoeing.
- Equipment and Safety: Learn to select the right equipment and essential safety measures.
- Reading Your Environment: Develop the ability to interpret water and weather conditions for safe navigation.
- Efficient Paddling: Optimize your paddling technique to minimize effort and maximize speed and control.
- Basic First Aid: Learn basic first aid procedures in aquatic environments.
- Get ready to enjoy kayaking and canoeing with confidence and safety!
Curriculum
Programme Structure
The programme is structured in 5 modules, listed below in order of study.
01
Basics of kayaking, recreational canoeing and initial safety in the aquatic environment
- Concept of kayaking and canoeing and differences between recreational kayak, canoeing, canoeing, crossing kayak, sea kayak and calm water kayak
- Types of boats, shovels, vests, bath covers, lifelines, watertight bags and basic accessories
- Aquatic environment conditions: wind, current, swell, temperature, visibility, depth and obstacles
- Main Hazards: Overturning, Fatigue, Hypothermia, Insolation, Disorientation, Collisions and Group Separation
- Basic rules of safety, mandatory use of the vest, companion system and criteria to cancel the exit
02
Equipment, personal preparation, boarding and basic control of the boat
- Selection of the kayak or canoe according to level, weight, stability, type of water, duration and objective of the activity
- Adjustment of vest, shovel, seat, footrest, hull where applicable and buoyancy elements
- Personal preparation: hydration, sun protection, suitable clothing, footwear, waterproof bag and basic communication
- Techniques for boarding and disembarking from beach, pier, shore, ramp or shallow water zone
- Body position, balance, initial stability, shovel grip and posture control during navigation
03
Basic techniques of paleo, steering, braking and manoeuvreing in calm waters
- Forward Paleo, Motion Efficiency, Body Coordination and Energy Saving
- Paleo backwards, braking, speed control and safe stop of the boat
- Basic turns, sweeps, timing, course corrections and path control
- Approach manoeuvres to shore, dock, buoy, partner or rest point
- Straight line navigation, wind drift control and safe distance maintenance
04
AUTHORIZATION, BASIC ASSISTANCE AND PERFORMANCE BEFORE TIPS OR INCIDENTS
- Reaction to overturning, preservation of calm, permanence next to the boat and recovery of shovel
- Basic kayak emptying, assisted re-entry, partner support and return to safe zone
- Simple towing techniques, helping participant tyred and communication during an advocacy
- Action against falling into the water, loss of material, change of climate, cramps, dizziness or fatigue
- Coordination with group, monitor, nearby boats or emergency services when necessary
05
Applied kayak and basic canoeing project
- Case Definition: Lake Departure, Quiet River, Reservoir, Protected Coast, Guided Activity or Recreational Day
- Diagnosis of the environment, group level, necessary equipment, risks, meteorology and navigation conditions
- Design of the route plan with departure points, return, stops, distances, times and cancellation criteria
- Preparation of the safety plan with equipment, communication, self-catering, basic assistance and incident management
- Proposal for good environmental practices, group organisation and recommendations for beginners
Workload
Study Time and Workload
300 hours of study, online and at your own pace. Move the slider to the hours a week you can really put in.
Hours a week8
Weeks to finish—
You finish around—
Who it is for
Nature and sports enthusiasts looking to get started in kayaking and canoeing safely and enjoyably.People with no prior experience interested in learning the basic techniques of paddling, balance, and navigation.Families and groups of friends who want to enjoy a different and exciting outdoor activity.Active tourism enthusiasts who want to explore new aquatic environments and discover unique
Faculty
Academic direction and faculty
The teaching team at Navalis: working professionals who deliver and oversee the institute's programmes.
Eng. Diego Cifuentes
Cap. Javier Abaroa (MCA)
Dr. Pau Ferrer
Dr. Nuria Llobregat
Eng. Javier Bañuls
Eng. Sofía Marquina
Eng. Tomás Riera
Verified reviews
Student Reviews
Reviews collected and verified by Opynio, not written by us.
Outcomes
Learning Outcomes
- 01Master the fundamental paddling and boat control techniques
- 02Understand and apply essential water safety measures
- 03Interpreting environmental conditions and assessing the risks associated with navigation
- 04Perform basic rescue maneuvers and assist colleagues in emergency situations
- 05Know and use basic kayaking/canoeing equipment, including life jackets and communication devices
- 06Adapting the paddling technique to different types of water and weather conditions
Careers
Career Opportunities
01Kayaking and Canoeing Instructor: teaching basic techniques, water safety, and group leading.
02Kayaking Tour Guide: designing and leading tours in aquatic environments, interpreting the natural environment.
03Kayak and Canoe Rental: equipment management, customer service, and advising on routes and conditions.
04Lifeguard at Beaches or Reservoirs: surveillance and rescue in aquatic environments, first aid.
05Sports and Recreational Activities Coordinator: organizing recreational and sports activities at campsites, hotels, or leisure centers.
06Active Tourism Company Worker: supporting the organization and development of aquatic activities.
07Support Staff at Aquatic Sports Events: assisting at competitions in Kayaking and canoeing.
08Volunteer in environmental organizations: participation in conservation and cleanup projects in aquatic environments.
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Questions
Entry Requirements
A double-bladed paddle is used in kayaking and a single-bladed paddle in canoeing.
Yes. The itinerary includes ECDIS/Radar-ARPA/BRM with harbor, ocean, fog, storm, and SAR scenarios.
Online with live sessions; hybrid option for simulator/practical placements through agreements.
The main difference lies in the paddler's position and the type of paddle: in a kayak, a double-bladed paddle is used while sitting with legs extended, while in a canoe, a single-bladed paddle is used, either sitting on a bench or kneeling.
Recommended functional SMCP. We offer support materials for standard phraseology.
Yes, with a relevant degree or experience in maritime/port operations. The admissions interview will confirm suitability.
Optional (3–6 months) through Companies & Collaborations and the Alumni Network.
Simulator practice (rubrics), defeat plans, SOPs, checklists, micro-tests and applied TFM.
A degree from Navalis Magna Institute + operational portfolio (tracks, SOPs, reports and KPIs) useful for audits and employment.
Online admissions
Admissions Process
No waiting for a phone call. If your documents are complete, you can pay in the same session.
Entry requirements
Physical Aptitude:Good general health and ability to swim.Prior Knowledge:No prior knowledge is required, but familiarity with the aquatic environment is recommended.Personal Equipment:Appropriate clothing for water activities (quick-drying), water shoes, sun protection (sunscreen, sunglasses, hat).Documentation:ID/Passport (for identification).```
Questions?
Frequently Asked Questions
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