Exkursion Outfitters
2010 School of Paddlecraft

 

 
A GREAT OPPORTUNITY TO TEST-PADDLE A BOAT WHILE LEARNING
 
Exkursion offers a wide range of kayak classes for every ability of paddler. We specialize in kayak touring. What is kayak touring? Otherwise known as sea kayaking or flatwater kayaking, touring means different things to different people. To many it means a relaxing afternoon on a quiet lake or river close to home. To others it can be a multi-day adventure into the unknown. To others still it's an adrenaline filled day surfing waves and the challenge of paddling many miles in harsh conditions.
The beauty of kayaking is that you can make it whatever you want it to be!

We embrace all of the ways in which kayak touring gets people excited to go outside and experience water's wonders. Come join us for a day on the water. We'd love to teach you what we know about paddling and the awesome places you can experience in a kayak right in our own backyard.

Exkursion instructors are certified by the American Canoe Association. Come learn with us!

 
Classes include:
Level I Kayak Touring
Level II Kayak Touring
Rescues/Capsize Recoveries
Coastal Kayak Skills
Level III Kayak Touring
Rolling Skills Workshop
Forward Stroke Clinic
Kayak Navigation
To Register: Call (412) 372-7030

 

 

Level I Kayak Touring
 
3 HOUR SESSION.
 
Designed to teach the fundamentals,this course is perfect for those who have never been in a kayak before or who have never had formal training.
This course emphasizes safety, proper paddling technique, and enjoyment for entry level paddlers. We will spend part of the class applying the skills we've learned as we take a paddle tour to check out the scenery and wildlife. Whether you are interested in sea kayaking, day touring, mild river paddling, or simple recreational kayaking, this course will provide you with the necessary foundational skills.
 
LOCATIONS:
Millvale: Public carry-in boat launch at Three Rivers Rowing Association Millvale boathouse--Millvale Riverfront Park.
Keystone: Keystone State Park near New Alexandria, PA
 
DIRECTIONS TO EACH SITE WILL BE PROVIDED ALONG WITH WAIVERS, UPON REGISTERING FOR A CLASS
 
COST: $50 if we provide the equipment/$35 if you have your own equipment
 
Date Time Keystone Millvale
05/08 10 AM X 
05/19 5 PM  X
06/05 10 AM X 
06/23 6 PM  X
07/10 10 AM X 
07/14 6 PM  X
08/07 10 AM X 
08/18 6 PM  X
09/11 10 AM X 
09/15 4 PM  X

 
Level II Kayak Touring
 
Suggested Prerequisite: Level I Kayak Touring
 
Don't get stuck as a beginner! Learn to skillfully handle your boat and blade. This class is essential to learn how to safely exit a kayak after a capsize, brace to stay upright in rough water, and maneuver in any direction effectively. This is a perfect class for those who've taken Level I or who've been paddling for a while and want to learn more.
 
LOCATION: Keystone State Park
 
COST: $60 if we provide the equipment/$45 if you have your own equipment
 
Date Time
6/1210 AM
7/2410 AM
8/1410 AM
9/183 PM

 
Level III Kayak Touring
 
Suggested Prerequisite: Level II
 
Take your paddling to the next level!
In this 3 hour course you will refine your body and blade skills-gaining confidence putting your kayak on edge. We will cover more advanced strokes and techniques such as bow and stern rudders, sculling brace, sculling draw,and strokes with leans for ultimate maneuverability. This class is designed for sea kayakers and serious day touring paddlers.
 
LOCATION: Keystone State Park
 
COST: $60 if we provide the equipment/$45 if you have your own equipment
 
Date Time
7/3110 AM
8/283 PM
9/2510 AM
Rescues/Capsize Recoveries
 
Suggested Prerequisite: Level I
 
Will you know what to do when the unexpected happens? This 3-hour workshop will teach paddlers the skills necessary to get back in the boat after a capsize in deep water and help others to do the same. You will learn assisted and self-rescues: How to swim your boat to shore in all conditions, Side by Side Rescue, T-Rescue, Paddle Float Rescue, and The Scramble. And above all, safety issues are addressed! Be prepared for a workout!
 
LOCATION: Keystone State Park
 
COST: $60 if we provide the equipment/$45 if you have your own equipment
 
Date Time
6/1910 AM
7/24 3 PM
8/14 3 PM
9/1810 AM
Coastal Kayak Skills
 
Suggested Prerequisite: Talk to us...
 
Looking to take on the challenges of the ocean or the Great Lakes for your next paddling adventure? We can prepare you for this awesome kayaking environment. This course covers launching and landing in surf, paddling efficiently in wind and waves, rescue techniques for challenging scenarios, towing, communication, and seamanship for the sea kayaker. Half day workshop.
 
LOCATION: Presque Isle, Lake Erie
 
COST: $70 if we provide the equipment/$55 if you have your own equipment DATE/TIME: October 2nd 11AM
 
Rolling Skills Workshop
 
Suggested Prerequisite: Level II
 
This 3-hour session will be devoted to the kayak roll. We have developed an effective step by step method of learning the roll that has brought success to many happy students. You'll learn about proper kayak fit as well as body and blade mechanics essential to rolling skills.
 
LOCATION: Keystone State Park
 
COST: $60 if we provide the equipment/$45 if you have your own equipment
 
Date Time
6/193 PM
7/313 PM
8/2810 AM
9/253 PM
Forward Stroke Clinic
 
Suggested Prerequisite: Level I or equivalent
 
Whether you want to compete in kayak or adventure races, learn a great upper body workout, or simply perfect the skills you need for performance kayaking, you'll be interested in this workshop which is dedicated to mastering a powerful and efficient forward stroke technique. We'll also discuss a wide range of topics from equipment to stretching, training, and injury prevention.
 

LOCATION: Keystone State Park

COST: $60 if we provide the equipment/$45 if you have your own equipment

DATES and TIMES: June 13th and July 11th - 10AM

 

 
Kayak Navigation
 
Suggested Prerequisite: Level I
 
Navigation is all about being a safe and competent paddler. Always know where you are and where you're going with this course designed specifically for kayaking. Students will be educated on navigation tools and concepts, and then take to the water on a fun and challenging navigational practice route.
 

LOCATION:TBA

COST: $60 if we provide the equipment/$45 if you have your own equipment

DATES and TIMES: July 17th and August 15th - 10AM

 

 
THE MINIMUM AGE FOR OUR CLASSES IS 14. A PARENT OR GUARDIAN MUST ACCOMPANY ANYONE UNDER THE AGE OF 16.
 
    YOU MUST BE ABLE TO SWIM! PARTICIPANTS, AND PARENTS/LEGAL GUARDIANS OF MINOR PARTICIPANTS, MUST SIGN A LIABILITY WAIVER.

EXKURSION CAN ARRANGE FOR PRIVATE OR GROUP INSTRUCTION AND SPECIAL RATES FOR SCOUTS, SCHOOLS AND CHURCH GROUPS.

FOR REGISTRATION OR PAYMENT INFORMATION, CALL 412-372-7030 OR STOP BY THE STORE.
 

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