American Canoe Association Level 1/2 Kayak Instructor Certification Workshop
2023-03-16 09:00 - 2023-03-19 17:00 (America/New_York) | Galveston, TX
Become a Certified Paddle Instructor
Register
March 16-19, 2023
Artist Boat will be hosting an American Canoe Association Kayak Instructor Certification Workshop in Galveston, TX. This is a great course for anyone who leads any type of group on kayaks. You can help them to be better paddlers or teach new paddlers, rescue stranded paddlers, and help them feel more comfortable so they can spend more time enjoying the water. Taught by a highly skilled American Canoe Instructor, Jeff D. Atkins.
Level 1 or Level 2 certifications may be acquired in this course based on skill level. To learn more about these levels, visit the American Canoe Association website at https://americancanoe.org/education/types-of-courses/.
Following successful completion of the course, participants will have professional kayak training and be certified instructors with the American Canoe Association. Yay you!
Learn to:
* Perform paddling skills consistently with demonstration quality
* Demonstrate effective teaching skills
* Demonstrate technical knowledge of paddlesport
* Demonstrate appropriate safety & rescue ability
* Demonstrate effective group/course management and positive interpersonal skills
Questions? Call Artist Boat at (409) 632-0388 or email Kelsey Malan
Held on Galveston Island at Artist Boat’s Kayak Pavilion at the Coastal Heritage Preserve.

Bay Area Rough Water Rodeo
2023-05-12 - 2023-05-15 | Fort Baker, CA, United States
We’re bringing back the Rough Water Rodeo in 2023 as an East Coast meets West Coast extravaganza!
The Cali Collective team is excited to welcome guest coaches Ashley Brown (Wavepaddler), Jeff Atkins (Wavepaddler), and Jeff Laxier (Liquid Fusion Kayaking) at this year’s Rough Water Rodeo in addition to the core Saltwater Crew.
We’ll spend four glorious days adventuring and honing skills in the best venues the Bay Area has to offer. Every day, students will have the opportunity to choose either a spicy intermediate/advanced environment or a more mild, yet complementary, advanced beginner environment based on their comfort, the conditions of the day, and individual goals.
Potential Schedule (Final Based on Conditions):

Day 1: Surf Zone and/or Performance Surfing
Day 2: Intro to Rock Gardening and/or Rock Gardening Skills & Safety
Day 3: Blending Strokes and/or Intermediate Tide Race Play, Rocks and/or Surf
Day 4: Open Coastal Journey or Grand Surf Safari (Can be adapted as a half day)

This 4-day long-weekend aims to meet your goals and needs at a variety of levels, taking advantage of a strong coaching team to challenge yourself and achieve new breakthroughs.
Whether you’re from out of town and have always wanted to paddle in the Bay Area or you’re a local excited to work with new coaches and fresh techniques, this clinic is designed for you.
Prerequisites: Previous surf zone and rough water experience strongly recommended (Intro to Surf Zone, Intro to Tides & Currents, Intro to Rock Gardening). Students should have good bracing skills and be comfortable with wet exits, as well as self and assisted rescues. A roll is encouraged but NOT required. Students who have successfully completed an ACA L3 skills assessment or higher will get the most out of this event (and probably have the most fun)
Location & Timing: Day 1 will likely take place in Bolinas, Half Moon Bay, or Dillon Beach, with Days 2 and 3 launching from Horseshoe Cove. Day 4, we will adjust location based on the needs of each group and the day’s conditions.
Pricing: $680 for all 4 days (max students 20) (There is no two- day option this year)
Please Note: Cost does not include lodging, meals, or kayak and gear rental. We offer boat and gear rentals for students and can recommend lodging options.
Please make sure you review our cancellation policy before registering.
Lodging: Lodging is not included. We’re happy to help recommend lodging options and also connect participants who are interested in sharing lodging.
Please Note: Cost does not include kayak and gear rental. We offer boat and gear rentals for students.
Questions? Email Laura at laura@cwwcollective.com.
Your Coaches
Jeff Atkins
Jeff is an ACA L5 Advanced Open Water Coastal Kayaking Instructor, L3 Instructor Trainer Educator, and an L2 Canoe Essentials Instructor Trainer. After a successful career as a Park Ranger, Jeff is now retired from public service, but continues to work as an outdoor industry professional. He loves coaching and leading trips. As an Instructor for the NC Outward Bound School, he leads expeditions around several parts of the USA. Jeff also holds several certifications including Wilderness First Responder, Leave No Trace Master Educator, and Coastal Master Naturalist for SC. Paddlesports is his passion and he loves to spread the “infectious” recreation activity to others. He believes in having fun and helping others to expand their confidence and skills by while learning. “There is nothing like the feeling of seeing a person smile because they just did something they didn’t think they could do.”
Ashley Brown
Ashley Brown is the recipient of the ACA 2019 Excellence in Instruction Award! She lives in Charleston SC, a beautiful place to paddle. She is passionate about teaching kayaking at all levels and challenging people to test their limits while learning and having a ton of fun. She holds the prestigious Level 5 American Canoe Association Advanced Open Water Coastal Kayaking Instructor Certification and is also an ACA L2 Kayak IT, and L4 Coastal Kayak Instructor Trainer, Canoe Instructor, SUP Instructor. She is an Instructor at many symposiums, mostly on the east coast. She loves to travel, learn from her students, and enjoys welcoming guests from all over the world to paddle in beautiful Charleston waterways, especially the “edge of America”, the Atlantic Ocean off Folly Beach. As much as she loves to paddle, Ashley loves to teach. Her dedication to teaching brought her to the College of Charleston, where she has been developing a university-level curriculum in Kayaking and SUP. Ashley serves as an Adjunct Professor of Coastal Kayaking, Instructor Development, and Stand Up Paddleboard in the Health Education and Human Performance Dept.
Amber Champion
Amber Champion has been adventuring since the day she was born, but has been heavily involved with Sea Kayaking since 2015 & Paddleboarding since 2016. She began her sea kayaking career working as a guide on the Great Barrier Reef in the Whitsundays, Australia. From there she decided the recreation was a great way to access remote locations away from big vessels and to find hidden gems that most people wouldn’t know existed. In 2016 she started working for Blue Dog Kayaking ltd. This is where her life of instruction began, she was drawn to the world of teaching when she realized that it gave individuals the potential to paddle away with the skills and abilities to go and explore without a guide. Facilitating learning environments that empowers and builds confidence in individuals became a new passion, and the desire to get more highly trained became a priority. In the past few years Amber has taught at numerous national and international symposiums, gained her Paddle Canada L4 Instructors & L2 Instructor Trainers certification and become the youngest and the only female to hold that certification.
This past year, Amber ran the first ever all women’s L4 skills course for Paddle Canada in history, something she dreamt about since she joined the organization! She is driven to get to the top and offer more opportunities for learning for everyone. When Amber isn’t instructing she spends her time surfing her paddleboard or working as a multi-day sea kayak guide in the Abel Tasman National Park, in New Zealand.
Jeff Laxier
In 1996, Jeff started teaching kayaking. A lifelong waterman and nature lover – teaching kayaking has become a way for Jeff to share his passion for water and nature with others. In 2005, Jeff founded Liquid Fusion Kayaking. Liquid Fusion Kayaking is an instructional kayak company based on the North Coast of California. From dry and mild to wet and wild, Jeff and his partner Cate Hawthorne instruct and guide sea kayaking, whitewater river kayaking, surf kayaking, rock gardening/rock hopping, and nature history tours. With 20 plus years of experience teaching multiple disciplines of kayaking, Jeff has honed his instructional skills for all levels and is a master at skill refinement and application and fun. When not teaching, Jeff is likely to be messing about in kayaks on the sea, running down rivers, or carving waves in the surf.
Jeff is certified by the ACA in Advanced Whitewater Kayaking, Coastal Kayaking, and Surf Kayaking. He is certified with the British Canoe Union (BCU) as a Level 3 Sea Coach and holds a 4 Star award in both surf kayaking and sea kayaking, and a 3 Star award in Canoeing. He is certified in Wilderness First Aid, CPR, and Lifeguarding. A former member of the San Diego Mountain Rescue Team and the U.S. Marine Corps, Jeff has a dedication to exhilarating outdoor activities that know no boundaries.
Mary Ann King
Mary Ann exudes pure joy every time she’s on the water. She is a three-time US kayak polo national champion, and—before she fell in love with sea kayaking—represented the US on the Women’s National Kayak Polo Team at the World Games, Canoe Polo World Championships, and Pan American Kayak Polo Championships. Mary Ann is no stranger to hard work, performance kayaking, and disciplined coaching. She applies her keen sense of observation to provide students with feedback that leads to breakthroughs big and small – all while laughing so hard you forget you’re learning. Mary Ann is an ACA L4 Coastal Kayaking Instructor.
Suzy Matsubara
Suzy loves being on the water whether it’s a mindful paddle through Elkhorn Slough, surfing long and consistent waves in Bolinas, or navigating through rock gardens along Monterey Bay and Big Sur. She started her kayaking career guiding at Elkhorn Slough in Moss Landing about four years ago and tenaciously pursued instructor certification, and is currently certified as an L4 Coastal Kayaking Instructor.
She loves kayaking for fun around Monterey Bay and San Francisco Bay. Her heart is in guiding, coaching, and instructing in the outdoors. She views kayaking as a spiritual practice, finding great purpose and meaning on the water. During the school year she is an outdoor education teacher for a K-8 school in Monterey. In the summer you can find her guiding and instructing at Elkhorn Slough or on the river whitewater rafting or kayaking.
Laura Zulliger
With over 17 years of coaching experience, Laura is an ACA-certified Level 5 Advanced Open Water Coastal Kayaking Instructor – the youngest woman to earn this level of certification – and an L4 Whitewater Kayaking Instructor.
In addition to sea kayaking, she teaches whitewater kayaking, and surf kayaking. As a coach, Laura draws upon this multidisciplinary approach to give students the skills and confidence needed to experience the waves, rocks and swell of California’s energetic coastline as a playground rather than a battleground. To that end, she is grateful for the opportunity to work with paddlers at every stage of their development. She’s the Saltwater Program Director for California Watersport Collective. When she’s not on the water playing in waves and around rocks, she leads marketing and partnerships for an educational travel company. She’s honored to be on the P&H Kayaks Team and serve as a global ambassador for Kokatat in addition to being on the Mega Surf Kayaks team.

Oceans '23
2023-05-19 08:00 - 2023-05-21 17:00 | FL
Oceans ’23 will take place from Fort Caswell, Southport, NC. We will be staying at Fort Caswell in climate-controlled Sandpiper Cottage. Whatever your current comfort level, a regular ocean sea kayak surfer, or if you are simply aspiring to become a more competent sea kayaker able to handle a wider range of conditions, this event is for you. We will have the ability to keep you in protected flatwater to match your development level, introduce folks to smaller waves inside the mouth of the Cape Fear River, or venture out onto the Atlantic Ocean. As always, the weather controls the ocean’s moods, so we don’t know exactly what that will look like until we’re standing on the beach. Groups will be divided, and go out with instructors based upon their skill levels and interests.

ACA Level 2 Essentials of SUP Instructor Certification Workshop
2023-07-20 08:00 - 17:00 | St Augustine
Based in St Augustine Florida in conjunction with St Johns County Recreation Department

Surf Camps!
2023-09-20 08:00 - 2023-09-21 17:00 | Cape Charles, VA, United States
Surf Camps!
Weds – Thurs, (Sept. 20-21)
Instructors: Dale Williams, Tom Noffsinger, Jeff Atkins, Ashley Brown
Location: Cape Charles, VA
Cost: $295 (+ housing)
​
These two-day, pre-symposium surf camps are geared to paddlers who want some intensive instruction to improve their surfing skills. There will be two tracks: advanced and intermediate. The venues will include Metompkin Inlet and/or Smith Inlet. There is an additional fee of $295 for this training and registration is separate from the symposium registration. Group housing will be available. If you are interested, please contact Rick Wiebush (rwiebush@gmail.com; 410.788.1241).
Advanced Surfing Track
This course will be run by Dale Williams (ACA L5 ITE) and Tom Noffsinger (ACA L5). It is for people who have a lot of surf experience, a reliable roll in conditions, strong self-rescue skills, a strong forward stroke and plenty of stamina. You need a helmet. In addition to refining several aspects of surfing technique, both days will include an extensive (e.g., 1.5 hour) debrief session to reflect on what you’ve accomplished, where you want to go next, and any “incidents” that may have occurred. These debriefs will take place at one of the group houses after people have had a chance to shower and change. This course is limited to eight participants.
​
Intermediate Surfing Track
This course will be led by Jeff Atkins (ACA L4 IT). It is geared toward people who have paddled in surf multiple times, have taken at least one formal surf class, but have surfed primarily in a shore break. You should feel comfortable in 2 – 3 ft surf. A roll is a definite plus but not required. However, you should be adept at one or more self – rescues and totally competent with assisted rescues. The skills will include understanding the surf zone, identifying safe areas, the set-up and take-off, timing, power strokes, holding position on the wave, surf zone etiquette, and launching and landing, among others. There will be lots of drills to increase your confidence in a dynamic environment. You need a helmet. This course is limited to eight participants.

Kiptopeke Sea Kayaking Symposium
2023-09-22 08:00 - 2023-09-24 17:00 | Cape Charles, VA, United States
11th Annual Kiptopeke Sea Kayaking Symposium
Cost: $375 (includes three days of classes + Sat. dinner; lodging is separate)

The Kiptopeke Symposium routinely is a fabulous event – people love it! There are several reasons for all the positive reviews including:

the range of courses, with everything from novice to advanced level courses; and the number of courses, with about 10 to choose from each day

the quality of the coaches, who are the best in the mid-Atlantic area and include some who are considered to be the best in the country

the mix of participants, who come from 10 -12 different states, some as far away as Tennessee, Texas, California, Florida and Canada!

the fact that the vast majority of participants stay together in the beautiful state park lodges, which helps create a wonderful sense of community

the venue itself, next to the Virginia barrier islands, and with immediate access to the calmer waters of the Chesapeake Bay and the rougher conditions that can be had in the Atlantic Ocean.

The 2022 courses will be finalized by about May 15 and registration will start that date as well. We will email everyone when registration opens.
We plan to offer the most popular courses from past years, plus some new ones. Typical courses include:

Beginning and Advanced Rolling

Greenland Skills

Intermediate skills

Life on the Edge and Open Water Skills

Intro to Surf; Advanced Surfing

Intro to Rougher Water

Basic and Advanced Rescues

Towing

Paddling with Grace and Style

Edging and Bracing

Wreckage in the Wave Train

Advanced Navigation

Barrier Island touring trips

Also, don’t forget to check out the video here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PA6ls-AsWl0
Housing
Most people will be staying in one of the five Kiptopeke State Park lodges that we’ve rented for this year. The lodges all have six bedrooms and three baths with a full kitchen and plenty of room to spread out and relax.

There are several other housing options available for those who don’t want to be with a group. Kiptopeke State Park has a really nice campground and there are several motels in the area.

Bahamas Exploration 2024
2024-01-22 08:00 - 2024-01-28 08:00 | Eleuthera, Bahamas
Where: Eleuthera, Bahamas 2024
Dates: Arrive January 22, 2024 – Depart: January 28, 2024
Capacity 8 minimum – 10 Maximum
Costs: = $2250 per person + flights + meals and drinks not eaten at our accomodations site
50% Deposit due ASAP to lock in place. Final Balance due by December 1, 2023
Cost covers: Airport shuttle to and from The Island School. Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner eaten on Campus. Kayaking and snorkeling gear. Boat ride to snorkeling location(s). Shuttle around Eleuthera for a tour.
Not covered: Flights, shuttles outside of the below mentioned, any meals not eaten on Campus. DAN Insurance for snorkeling/diving trips.
Cancellation Policy (Events and Classes)
Our event holds limited seating, and many of our [Events/Classes] sell out. For this reason, we request that you cancel by November 1, 2023. There will be a $200 cancellation fee prior to November 1, 2023. After November 1, there are no refunds This will allow us to offer your spot to another [Student/Customer]. You may call us at 843-441-0328 or email between the hours of 8a.m. to 5 p.m. Eastern Time to cancel.
Location: The Island School of the Bahamas – Eleuthera, Bahamas
Accommodations: The Hallig House
The rooms have 2 twin beds and restroom. They are facing the water. There is internet access, but no TVs.
Itinerary:
Day 1: Arrive at Rock Sound, Eleuthera (RSD) Airport by 4:30 p.m.
Travel to (NAS) Lynden Pindling International Airport and catch a flight from there to (RSD) Rock Sound International using Bahamas Air or Pineapple Air to arrive at 4:15 p.m. I have found it cheaper to book directly through Bahamas Air.
Shuttle to The Island School will pick us up at the Airport between 4:30 p.m. and 5:00 p.m.
Day 2: Kayaking trip from the Island School exploring the local waterways. Plenty of swimming and beautiful water.
Day 3: Island Tour – Tour around the Island to see local beaches, caves, restaurants, bakery’s etc
Day 4: Kayaking tour
Day 5: Island Tour or kayaking tour
Day6: Snorkeling
Day 7: Depart campus early AM (Estimated departure time of 6:30 a.m.) to catch flights from RSD to NAS.
*** Itinerary is subject to change due to weather and logistics needs.
Reservations are on a first come first serve basis

American Canoe Association Level 1 & 2 Kayak Instructor Certification Workshop
2024-03-12 08:00 - 2024-03-14 17:00 | Galveston, TX
Artist Boat will be hosting an American Canoe Association Level 1 & 2 Kayak Instructor Certification Workshop in Galveston, Texas!
Designed to teach participants proper paddling techniques and how to perform rescues on the water.
For more information, visit Their website and register by clicking on their Events Calendar on the main page!
https://www.artistboat.org
3-Day Course:
March 12 – 14th, 8am – 5pm
Cost: $650 per person for the 3-day course

Ten Thousand Islands Mini-Expedition
2024-03-18 - 2024-03-22 | Everglades City, FL, FL, United States
10,000 Islands Mini-Expedition
March 18-22, 2024 (Mon – Fri)
Location: Everglades City, FL (meeting place)
Instructors/Guides: Jeff Atkins, Rick Wiebush
Cost: $550 Note: Save 15% if you do this and the Sun Coast trip the following week
​
The 10,000 Islands section of Everglades National Park is a virtually untouched wilderness that seems to have been designed for exploration by sea kayak. So that’s what we are going to do for five days and four nights, moving from camp site to camp site, expedition-style. We’ll be carrying all our own food, water, tents and camping supplies with us in our boats. Expect to paddle about 10-12 nm each day, using the tides to give us a boost. We’ll be keeping our eyes out for Brown (and maybe White) Pelicans, Roseate Spoonbills, dolphins, sea turtles and possibly a manatee or alligator. We’ll also be paying close attention to our nautical charts since that many islands so close together can seem like a maze!
Our camp sites are wide, sandy, pristine beaches that we want to keep that way, so Leave No Trace principles will apply.
​
Note: This trip is full but has a standby list

The Florida Sun Coast
2024-03-22 - 2024-03-29 | Dunedin, FL, FL, 34697, United States
The Florida Sun Coast
March 22 – 29, 2024
Location: Dunedin, FL
Instructors/Guides: Rick Wiebush, Jeff Atkins
Cost: $895 + housing Note; Save 15% when doing both Florida trips
​
There is nothing like being in southwest Florida in 80-degree weather and endless sunshine, while everyone up north is freezing their bunderundes off. Add a six-bedroom, three and a half bath estate as a base and endless paddling opportunities and you’ll be set for a week.
The paddling will include some places we’ve been on previous trips, as well as some new places. Figure an average of 10 nm/day. We’ll do a different paddle each day including Anclote Key with it’s classic lighthouse, Honeymoon and Caladisi Islands, Ft DeSoto and Shell Key, and a new, challenging crossing to Egmont Key. So most of it will be coastal stuff, with generally calm conditions, blue skies, white sandy beaches and warm weather – in March!
​
Note: This trip is full but has a standby list

Wave Paddler Spring Gathering
2024-04-02 16:00 - 2024-04-07 17:00 | Camp St Christopher, 2810 Seabrook Island Road, Seabrook Island, SC, 29455
We are excited to announce the first
WAVEPADDLER SPRING SEA KAYAK GATHERING

Dates: April 2-7, 2024
Location: Seabrook Island, SC

Join us for a Spring Paddle Session to get back on the water and improve your skills for the upcoming paddling season! We will be playing in the ocean and tidal rivers along the coast of one of South Carolina’s beautiful barrier islands!
This immersive experience will include lodging, meals, coaching, and touring. Come and join us whether you want to play in the calmer waters, or test your skills in the surf and bumpy Atlantic! There will be a variety of opportunities to make the most of your adventure. The evenings will provide an opportunity to unwind, share your stories with fellow paddlers, or just relax and walk along the beach.
Accommodations and meals are provided at Camp St. Christopher on Seabrook Island. This includes a double occupancy room, breakfast, dinner, guiding, and instruction for 5 days for $945. Check is 3 pm on April 2nd, on the water April 3-7. Check out is by 2 pm on April 7, unless you choose to stay an additional night.
More options: Solo room is an additional $175, Sunday night is an additional $75 per person shared/$110 solo.
Packed lunch option – $15 day = $75 total.
We would love to paddle with you this spring! Please let us know! Space is limited, so sign up soon!
Contact Jeff at wavepaddlerjeff@gmail.com

ACA Level 3 Coastal Kayaking Instructor Development Workshop (IDW)
2024-05-03 08:00 - 2024-05-05 17:00 | Charleston, SC
ACA Level 3 IDW – May 3-5, 2024.
Join Ashley Brown in Charleston, South Carolina for this 3-day instructor training course.
Please see the ACA Level 3 Instructor Criteria for the content we will be working on. This class is focused on making you become a better instructor, leader, and paddler. This is an interactive course where the instructor candidates will be teaching and performing at a high level of competence.
Participants must have completed an ACA Level 3 Coastal Kayaking Skills Assessment before attending as a candidate.
The price covers your course fee only. $450
Accommodations are on your own. I have kayaks and equipment you can rent. I will be glad to assist with advice on rental locations as much as possible. Feel free to send me an email with any questions. wavepaddlerashley@gmail.comn Charleston, South Carolina for this 3-day instructor training course.
Please see the ACA Level 3 Instructor Criteria for the content we will be working on. This class is focused on making you become a better instructor, leader, and paddler. This is an interactive course where the instructor candidates will be teaching and performing at a high level of competence.
Participants must have completed an ACA Level 3 Coastal Kayaking Skills Assessment before attending as a candidate.
The price covers your course fee only. $450
Accommodations are on your own. I have kayaks and equipment you can rent. I will be glad to assist with advice on rental locations as much as possible. Feel free to send me an email with any questions. wavepaddlerashley@gmail.com

Greece - 2024
2024-05-21 08:00 - 2024-06-01 17:00 | FL
Day schedule and logistics:
Day 1 Tuesday 21 – Arrive in Athens airport – transfer to Athens center – Accommodation in hotel – welcome Greek dinner in tavern in Monastiraki square
Day 2 Wednesday 22 – guided visit of the Old town and Parthenon – free lunch – dinner in greek tavern
Day 3 Thursday 23 – transfer back to the airport and flight to the island of Kefalonia – meet with me at the airport – lodgment in hotel – intro of the kayaking trip and first warming paddling – dinner – accommodation in Kefalonia
Day 4 Friday 24 – first day trip in the island of Kefalonia – Paddling Sami – Poros (25 km) – accommodation in Kefalonia
Day 5 Saturday 25 – second day trip in the island of Kefalonia – Paddling Assos – Atheras (25 km) – accommodation in Kefalonia
Day 6 Sunday 26 – third day trip in the island of Kefalonia – Fiskardo Agia Efimia (25 km) – accommodation in Kefalonia
Day 7 Monday 27 – Paddling to Itaka – Fiskardo Kioni ( 25 km ) – accommodation in Itaka
Day 8 Tuesday 28 – day exploring Itaka island – Odyssey museum – walk on the little town of Vathy – accommodation in Itaka
Day 9 Wednesday 29 – Paddling back to Kefalonia – Kioni Fiskardo
(25 km) – Celebrating dinner in Kefalonia – Accommodation in Kefalonia
Day 10 Thursday 30 – Flight back home
Accommodation plan:
Day 21 and 22 May – Athens center town (2 nights)
Day 23, 24, 25, 26 May – Kefalonia island (4 nights)
Day 27 and 28 May – Itaka island (2 nights)
Day 29 May – Kefalonia island (1 night)
Price include:
all the accommodations in category 3 stars hotel with breakfast, packed lunch, dinners in selected local restaurants, all logistics in the islands, museum entrance fee, guided visit in Athens, guided visit of Itaka island, rent of kayaking equipment of first quality, guided kayaking trips. Price doesn’t include drinks and alcohol.
Price:
– 3900 euro in double accommodation
– 4500 euro in single accommodation
$1000 Deposit due immediately. Balance will be collected March 1 2024

Great Lakes Sea Kayak Symposium
2024-07-17 - 2024-07-21 | Grand Marais, MI, United States
The Great Lakes Sea Kayak Symposium gives you the opportunity to have an exceptional learning experience in one of the premier sea kayaking destinations in the country.
Situated in the beautiful coastal town of Grand Marais, which is the eastern gateway to the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, we can explore this national treasure. Nearby Grand Island National Recreation Area provides additional shoreline for exploring the cliffs and waterfalls of Lake Superior.
For those who are not comfortable with paddling on the Great Lakes, we have a variety of courses designed to empower you with the skills to take your paddling to the next level. These classes are held in the protected harbor of Grand Marais, which provides a safe and protected learning environment while still providing amazing scenery.
GLSKS gives you the opportunity to connect with other paddlers from around the country and share your experiences and adventures. Each evening we will have a relaxed social event with music, conversation and community. We will additionally connect with the community of Grand Marais through a pasty dinner hosted by the high school on Saturday night. The proceeds help the senior class of Grand Marais take a senior trip to an exciting outdoor location.
We look forward to seeing you in Grand Marais – this place will change your life!

Surf Camps with Ginni Callahan and Ashley Brown!
2024-07-25 08:00 - 2024-07-28 17:00 | Cape Charles, VA, United States
Surf Camps with Ginni Callahan!
July 25 – 26, 2024 (Surf Camp I); July 27 – 28, 2024 (Surf Camp II)
Instructors: Ginni Callahan, Ashley Brown
Location: Cape Charles, VA
Cost: $295 per session + housing ($250 per session if doing both)
​
Ginni runs Sea Kayak Baja Mexico and her surf camps are legendary, both for their duration (six days), the level of personalized attention (about a 1:4 ratiio) and her teaching methods (including use of video and partner observation and feedback. Ginni is bringing that tradition to the East Coast for two surf camps this summer and will have Ashley Brown coaching with her. Our hope is that some people will be able to treat this as one camp (i.e., do both sessions) to get the maximum benefit and to facilitate that the cost is reduced by $90 when doing both. The venue will be the outstanding surf off the south end of Smith Island (where the Kiptopeke surf classes are held). Participants should expect to be in the water about half the time and observing a buddy about half the time. This will vary based on the situation, but that’s a solid expectation to start with. Much learning is done on the beach between sessions, as that completes the “review” and “conclude/internalize” portions of the learning cycle. It also supports learners visually, and allows one to recharge mentally and physically between rounds with the waves. On the first night, there will be a goal- and expectation-setting meeting at the rental house and the second night will include video review of the surf sessions. This is not to be missed. This is not for beginners. You need to have solid intermediate paddling skills and preferably some experience in surf. A roll is great, but not required. Some form of solid self-rescue is a good idea.
We will be staying in a rental house in Cape Charles, about 10 minutes from the put in. The cost per night for housing is usually around $55 for a shared (two-person) room. The group can decide if it wants to do a group meal, go out to a local restaurant or both.

Surf Camps
2024-09-18 08:00 - 2024-09-19 17:00 | Cape Charles, VA, United States
Surf Camps!
Weds – Thurs, (Sept. 18-19, 2024)
Instructors: Dale Williams, James Kesterson, Jeff Atkins, Ashley Brown
Location: Cape Charles, VA
Cost: $295 (+ housing)
​
These two-day, pre-symposium surf camps are geared to paddlers who want some intensive instruction to improve their surfing skills. There will be two tracks: advanced and intermediate. The venues will include Metompkin Inlet and/or Smith Inlet. There is an additional fee of $295 for this training and registration is separate from the symposium registration. Group housing will be available. If you are interested, please contact Rick Wiebush (rwiebush@gmail.com; 410.788.1241).
​
Advanced Surfing Track
This course will be run by Dale Williams (ACA L5 ITE) and James Kesterson (ACA L5). It is for people who have a lot of surf experience, a reliable roll in conditions, strong self-rescue skills, a strong forward stroke and plenty of stamina. You need a helmet. In addition to refining several aspects of surfing technique, both days will include an extensive (e.g., 1.5 hour) debrief session to reflect on what you’ve accomplished, where you want to go next, and any “incidents” that may have occurred. These debriefs will take place at one of the group houses after people have had a chance to shower and change. This course is limited to eight participants.
​
Intermediate Surfing Track
This course will be led by Jeff Atkins (ACA L5 and L4 IT). and Ashley Brown (ACA L5 and L4 IT) It is geared toward people who have paddled in surf multiple times, have taken at least one formal surf class, but have surfed primarily in a shore break. You should feel comfortable in 2 – 3 ft surf. A roll is a definite plus but not required. However, you should be adept at one or more self – rescues and totally competent with assisted rescues. The skills will include understanding the surf zone, identifying safe areas, the set-up and take-off, timing, power strokes, holding position on the wave, surf zone etiquette, and launching and landing, among others. There will be lots of drills to increase your confidence in a dynamic environment. You need a helmet. This course is limited to eight participants.

11th Annual Kiptopeke Sea Kayaking Symposium
2024-09-20 - 2024-09-22 | Kiptopeke State Park, 3540 Kiptopeke Dr,, Cape Charles, VA, 23310, United States
11th Annual Kiptopeke Sea Kayaking Symposium
September 20 – 22, 2024Kiptopeke State Park, Cape Charles, VA
After getting shut out by a tropical storm in 2023, Kiptopeke will return in full force,
September 20 – 22, 2024!!!!!!!!!!
​
Cost: $535 (includes all classes, 1 dinner and housing in the lodges); $375 if you are arranging your own housing.
The symposium is back bigger and better than ever in 2024. We expect about 75 people and 15 coaches from 10-12 different
states to attend. It will be three great days of sea kayak training, events and comaradarie. Everywhere you go, all you’ll see will be
smiling people!

There will be about 10 rough water and calm water classes to choose from each day, with courses for all skill levels. We’ll have the
old favorites (e.g. Intro to Surf, Intro to Rough(er) Water, Surf classes), along with several new courses. Brand new this year
is a “Reading the Water” class with Dale Williams; two new fun classes with Ashley Brown; a circumnavigation of Fisherman’s
Island and new Teach and Trek classes
​
SURF CAMPS: The wildly popular two-day pre-symposium Intermediate and Advanced Surf camps will be back as well! They will
be run by Dale Williams and James Kesterson (Advanced camp) and Jeff Atkins and Ashley Brown (Intermediate camp).
​
Course descriptions: Click here to see the full listing and descriptions of the 2024 courses. Registration will kopen in May 2024.
​
Coaches: Dale Wiliams, Jeff Atkins, Ashley Brown, James Kesterson, Bev Coslett, Kathryn Lapolla, Chris Raab, Drew Trousdell,
Brian Blankinship, Tom Suppan, Paula Hubbard, Rick Wiebush, Mike Cavanaugh, Laurie Collins.
Housing. Symposium housing is for Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights. Most people will be staying in one of the fantastic lodges
at Kiptopeke State park. Each lodge has six bedrooms, three baths, a full kitchen and a really nice living area (vaulted ceiling, big
windows, etc). So we will be continuing the tradition of staying together during the symposium.This is one of the things that makes
the symposium so special. Instead of everyone going their individual ways after classes, they come back to the houses where they
can socialize, share meals and make new friends with paddlers from all over the East Coast.
​
There are several options for housing including camping at the state park, airbnb rentals, local motels, etc. You don’t have to stay
in the lodges.
​
Registration
​
You will be able to register for the symposium in May 2024. Rick will send out an announcement via email and on social media.
​
Questions?
​
If you have questions, please contact Rick Wiebush: crosscurrentsseakayaking@gmail.com
​

Level 4: Open Water Coastal Kayaking Instructor Development Workshop
2024-11-08 08:00 - 2024-11-11 17:00 | Tybee Isand, Ga, GA, 31328, United States
Combined Level 4 Update and Instructor Development Workshop. Update candidates must be current L4 Instructors. Upgrade candidates must be current L3 Instructors and have completed an L4 Skills Assessment. Please contact if you need help arranging a skills assessment.
CONTACT INFORMATION
Ashley Brown and Dale Williams
wavepaddlerashley@gmail.com or seakayakingusa@gmail.com

Bahamas Exploration - Eleuthera 2025
2025-01-20 08:00 - 2025-01-26 17:00 | Eleuthera, Bahamas
Where: Eleuthera, Bahamas 2025
Dates: Arrive January 20, 2025 – Depart: January 26, 2025
Capacity 8 minimum – 10 Maximum
Costs: = $2250 per person + flights + meals and drinks not eaten at our accommodations site
50% Deposit due ASAP to lock in place. Final Balance due by December 1, 2024
Cost covers: Airport shuttle to and from The Island School. Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner eaten on Campus. Kayaking and snorkeling gear. Boat ride to snorkeling location(s). Shuttle around Eleuthera for a tour.
Not covered: Flights, shuttles outside of the below mentioned, any meals not eaten on Campus. DAN Insurance for snorkeling/diving trips.
Cancellation Policy (Events and Classes)
Our event holds limited seating, and many of our [Events/Classes] sell out. For this reason, we request that you cancel by November 1, 2024. There will be a $200 cancellation fee prior to November 1, 2024. After November 1, there are no refunds This will allow us to offer your spot to another [Student/Customer]. You may call us at 843-441-0328 or email between the hours of 8a.m. to 5 p.m. Eastern Time to cancel.
Location: The Island School of the Bahamas – Eleuthera, Bahamas
Accommodations: The Island School Dorms
The rooms have 2 twin beds, bunk beds and a shared restroom with another room. They are facing the water. There is internet access, but no TVs.
Itinerary:
Day 1: Arrive at Rock Sound, Eleuthera (RSD) Airport by 4:30 p.m.
Travel to (NAS) Lynden Pindling International Airport and catch a flight from there to (RSD) Rock Sound International using Bahamas Air or Pineapple Air to arrive at 4:15 p.m. I have found it cheaper to book directly through Bahamas Air.
Shuttle to The Island School will pick us up at the Airport between 4:30 p.m. and 5:00 p.m.
Day 2: Kayaking trip from the Island School exploring the local waterways. Plenty of swimming and beautiful water.
Day 3: Island Tour – Tour around the Island to see local beaches, caves, restaurants, bakery’s etc
Day 4: Kayaking tour
Day 5: Island Tour or kayaking tour
Day6: Snorkeling
Day 7: Depart campus early AM (Estimated departure time of 6:30 a.m.) to catch flights from RSD to NAS.
*** Itinerary is subject to change due to weather and logistics needs.
Reservations are on a first come first serve basis

Wave Paddler Spring Gathering 2025
2025-04-08 15:00 - 2025-04-13 15:00 | Camp St Christopher, 2810 Seabrook Island Road, Seabrook Island, SC, 29455
We are excited to announce the 2025
WAVEPADDLER SPRING SEA KAYAK GATHERING

Dates: April 8-13, 2025
Location: Seabrook Island, SC

Join us for a Spring Paddle Session to get back on the water and improve your skills for the upcoming paddling season! We will be playing in the ocean and tidal rivers along the coast of one of South Carolina’s beautiful barrier islands!
This immersive experience will include lodging, meals, coaching, and touring. Come and join us whether you want to play in the calmer waters, or test your skills in the surf and bumpy Atlantic! There will be a variety of opportunities to make the most of your adventure. The evenings will provide an opportunity to unwind, share your stories with fellow paddlers, or just relax and walk along the beach.
Accommodations and meals are provided at Camp St. Christopher on Seabrook Island. This includes a double occupancy room, breakfast, dinner, guiding, and instruction for 5 days for $945. Check is 3 pm on April 8nd, on the water April 9-13. Check out is by 2 pm on April 13, unless you choose to stay an additional night.
More options: Solo room is an additional $175, Sunday night is an additional $75 per person shared/$110 solo.
Packed lunch option – $15 day = $75 total.
We would love to paddle with you this spring! Please let us know! Space is limited, so sign up soon!
Contact Jeff at wavepaddlerjeff@gmail.com

Surf Camps!
2025-09-17 08:00 - 2025-09-18 17:00 | Cape Charles, VA, United States
Weds – Thurs, (Sept. 17-18, 2025)
Instructors: Dale Williams, James Kesterson, Jeff Atkins, Ashley Brown
Location: Cape Charles, VA
Cost: $295 (+ housing)
​
These two-day, pre-symposium surf camps are geared to paddlers who want some intensive instruction to improve their surfing skills. There will be two tracks: advanced and intermediate. The venues will include Metompkin Inlet and/or Smith Inlet. There is an additional fee of $295 for this training and registration is separate from the symposium registration. Group housing will be available. If you are interested, please contact Rick Wiebush (rwiebush@gmail.com; 410.788.1241).
​
Advanced Surfing Track
This course will be run by Dale Williams (ACA L5 ITE) and James Kesterson (ACA L5). It is for people who have a lot of surf experience, a reliable roll in conditions, strong self-rescue skills, a strong forward stroke and plenty of stamina. You need a helmet. In addition to refining several aspects of surfing technique, both days will include an extensive (e.g., 1.5 hour) debrief session to reflect on what you’ve accomplished, where you want to go next, and any “incidents” that may have occurred. These debriefs will take place at one of the group houses after people have had a chance to shower and change. This course is limited to eight participants.
​
Intermediate Surfing Track
This course will be led by Jeff Atkins (ACA L4 IT). and Ashley Brown (ACA L5 and L2 IT) It is geared toward people who have paddled in surf multiple times, have taken at least one formal surf class, but have surfed primarily in a shore break. You should feel comfortable in 2 – 3 ft surf. A roll is a definite plus but not required. However, you should be adept at one or more self – rescues and totally competent with assisted rescues. The skills will include understanding the surf zone, identifying safe areas, the set-up and take-off, timing, power strokes, holding position on the wave, surf zone etiquette, and launching and landing, among others. There will be lots of drills to increase your confidence in a dynamic environment. You need a helmet. This course is limited to eight participants.

12th Annual Kiptopeke Sea Kayaking Symposium
2025-09-19 08:00 - 2025-09-21 17:00 | Kiptopeke State Park, 3540 Kiptopeke Dr,, Cape Charles, VA, 23310, United States
Sept 19 – 21, 2024 (Fri – Sun)
Location: Cape Charles, VA
Instructors: Dale Williams, Jeff Atkins, Ashley Brown, James Kesterson, Chris Rezac, Rick Wiebush, Paula Hubbard, Kathryn Lapolla, Bev Coslett, Mike Cavanaugh, Laurie Collins
​
Cost: $550 (includes three days of classes + three nights lodging +Sat. dinner)
$375 (if you are arranging your own housing or camping)

The Kiptopeke Symposium routinely is a fabulous event – people love it! There are several reasons for all the positive reviews including:

the range of courses, with everything from novice to advanced level courses; and the number of courses, with about 10 to choose from each day

the quality of the coaches, who are the best in the mid-Atlantic area and include some who are considered to be the best in the country

the mix of participants, who come from 10 -12 different states, some as far away as Wisconsin, Ohio, Florida and Canada!

the fact that the vast majority of participants stay together in the beautiful state park lodges, which helps create a wonderful sense of community

the venue itself, next to the Virginia barrier islands, and with immediate access to the calmer waters of the Chesapeake Bay and the rougher conditions that can be had in the Atlantic Ocean.

The full description of the 2025 courses and the registration form will be available around May 15. See the “Symposium” tab above.

We will be offering the most popular courses from past years, plus some new ones. The range of courses will provide great opportunities for paddlers of all skill levels. The courses include:

Beginning and Advanced Rolling

ACA L5 Skills

Greenland Skills

Intermediate skills

Life on the Edge and Open Water Skills

Intro to Surf; Advanced Surfing

Intro to Rougher Water

Basic and Advanced Rescues

Towing

circumnavigation of Fisherman’s Island

Barrier Island touring trips

and more!

Also, don’t forget to check out the video here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PA6ls-AsWl0

Housing

Most people will be staying in one of the five Kiptopeke State Park lodges that we’ve rented for this year. The lodges all have six bedrooms and three baths with a full kitchen and plenty of room to spread out and relax. The cost for a two-person lodge room is just $160 for all three nights (Thurs., Fri., Sat.)

There are several other housing options available for those who don’t want to be with a group. Kiptopeke State Park has a really nice campground and there are several motels in the area.

Pacific Baja: Rocks and Ledges
2025-11-09 08:00 - 2025-11-15 17:00 | La Bufadora – Baja, Mexico
Nov. 9 – 15, 2025 (Sat– Sun.)
Location: San Diego, CA and La Bufadora, Baja, MX
Instructors/Guides: Jen Kleck, Victor Leon, Jeff Atkins
Cost: $1,595 ( includes housing and most meals)
​
Everyone that has done this with us has called it one of the best paddling trips they’ve ever done!

Paddle pour-overs, chutes, ledges, caves. Push yourself. Hold back if something makes you nervous. Take in the incredible vistas. Relax in the evenings in Victor Leon’s house overlooking the Pacific. Enjoy great local meals.
​
Join Jen Kleck and Jeff for a week-long trip that will feature several days of rock gardening and exposure to Baja culture! This trip is for those who have had some rock gardening experience and/or the equivalent of 3* skills.

In addition to the fabulous paddling, the Baja trip has now been extended one additional day to give us some time to experience the (non-paddling) culture of Baja. We will sample street food, check out the local fish markets, visit a vineyard and do wine tasting and/or go to a local brewery.

After traveling by van from San Diego to our base at a house in La Burfadora, we will spend a couple of days playing amidst the rocks and waves of the Pacific coast. The shoreline here is absolutely gorgeous, with mountains rising up from the sea, and massive stone pillars and caves dotting the coast. It is also a paddler’s playground with all kinds of features that are easily accessible and safe. As is always the case with our rock gardening courses, this will be challenge by choice – if you don’t feel comfortable doing something, it’s totally fine to not do it. But you will be thrilled by the challenges you do take on.

Here is the basic agenda for the week:

Saturday Nov 8: fly San Diego; stay hotel
Sunday: AM drive to Ensenada (3 hrs.); food shop; get set up in the house; short afternoon paddle to play at a gigantic blowhole. Stay in Victor’s house which is perched on a cliff overlooking the Pacific.
Monday through Friday: coastal exploration; play in rocks and ledges; paddle pour overs and chutes, find and explore caves; stay at house; local restaurants for dinner some nights.
Saturday: Explore Ensenada markets and street vendors. Late afternoon return to San Diego; stay hotel
Sunday, Nov 16: Fly home.

ACA Level 4 Open Water Coastal Kayaking Instructor Certification Workshop
2025-12-04 08:00 - 2025-12-07 17:00 | Charleston, SC
Elevate Your Sea Kayaking Instruction in Charleston, SC!
Join Ashley Brown and Mark Pecot in the dynamic waters of Charleston, South Carolina, for a 4-day immersive Instructor Certification Workshop (ICW). Whether you’re pursuing your full ICW, an Instructor Workshop (4 days), a personal development session to refine your skills and teaching, or an update, this course is designed to challenge and inspire.
This workshop isn’t just about certification—it’s about honing your ability to instruct, lead, and communicate effectively in the dynamic and challenging conditions of Level 4 coastal kayaking. You’ll be working in an inclusive and experiential learning environment, developing both your paddling and teaching skills alongside like-minded sea kayakers.
To participate as an instructor candidate, you must have already completed an ACA Level 4 Coastal Kayaking Skills Assessment. If you haven’t yet, we can help connect you with an assessor.
What You Get:
✅ Expert instruction in real-world conditions
✅ Hands-on teaching and leadership experience
✅ Skill refinement in an engaging, supportive setting
✅ Connections with other passionate sea kayakers
What You Need to Know:
💰 Course fee covers instruction only
🏠 Lodging is on your own, but we’re happy to offer guidance
🛶 Kayak and gear rentals are available—just ask!
Ready to take the next step in your sea kayaking journey? Email us with any questions!
Contact Information Ashley Brown
wavepaddlerashley@gmail.com

2026 Wave Paddler Spring Gathering!
2026-04-07 15:00 - 2026-04-12 15:00 | Camp St Christopher, 2810 Seabrook Island Road, Seabrook Island, SC, 29455
Join Us for the Third Annual Wave Paddler Gathering!
April 7–12
Camp St. Christopher, Seabrook Island, South Carolina

We’re thrilled to invite you to the Third Annual Wave Paddler Gathering, an immersive week of paddling, learning, and community at the beautiful Camp St. Christopher on Seabrook Island! With direct access to the Atlantic Ocean and the North Edisto River, this is the perfect setting to reconnect with the water — and with fellow paddlers.
Expect enthusiastic and talented coaches, delicious meals , comfortable accommodations , and warm(ish) coastal waters , all within a peaceful, natural environment. Once you arrive, you can park your car and forget about it — everything you need for the week is right here.
This event is a fantastic opportunity for our northern friends to thaw out and “break the ice” (metaphorically!) in sunny South Carolina. We’ll have plenty of time on and off the water to share ideas, stories, and all the nerdy kayaking conversations that your non-paddling friends might not fully appreciate.
Who Should Come?
If you love sea kayaking and enjoy the company of others who share that passion, this gathering is for you!
While we’ll have opportunities to play in waves and tide races , this isn’t just for surf enthusiasts — there will also be creek and river paddling options (though no fully protected flatwater… there’s always a bit of current ).

Price is $1095 not including extras such as solo rooms and additional lunches.
If you’re interested in joining us, please complete the form linked below and send a $200 “hold my spot” deposit to reserve your place.

We can’t wait to gather, paddle, and celebrate together on Seabrook Island!
Please fill out this form if you plan to join the fun!
We are looking forward to paddling with you!

Ashley Brown and Jeff Atkins
