INTRODUCTION TO KAYAKING Part 1 (~60 Minutes) & Part 2 (3 Hours)
Part 1 of this two-part course is taught online via Zoom.  Part 2 is on the sand and water.  STUDENTS MUST REGISTER FOR BOTH PARTS 1 & 2, AND COMPLETE PART 1 BEFORE TAKING PART 2.  After completing both Parts 1 & 2, participants will have an opportunity to pass the NSYC Kayak, Swim, Capsize and Assisted Rescue Assessment, required prior to use of any NSYC kayak equipment. 

• Students must have proof of full COVID-19 vaccination, effective prior to Part 1.
• Kayak classes are open to NSYC Full and Paddle Members ages 13 and up. Children 13 to 17 must take the class with an adult member.
• All students must have the ability to swim in open waters. 

COURSE DESCRIPTION:
Participants learn about basic kayaking skills, water safety, assessing conditions, and paddling on Lake Michigan, including strokes, turns, capsize & recovery, assisted rescues, kayak features, gear care and NSYC-specific kayaking protocols. Students practice skills in the Part 2 session on the water.
 
Course cost is $60 per participant, covering both Parts 1 & 2. Pre-registration for each part is required, but you will only pay for Part 1.
Classes are taught by volunteer NSYC Instructors certified by the American Canoe Association. Kayak and paddle are provided.
 
Students must wear a Type III US Coast Guard approved personal flotation device (PFD - life jacket). See details below.
 
Cancellations by participant later than 48 hours prior to the class start time will not be refunded.  Cancellations after registration and up to 48 hours prior to class start time may be charged a 5% processing fee. Participants will be notified if the class needs to be rescheduled due to hazardous weather conditions or insufficient enrollment. 

Questions, please email Kayak@NorthShoreYachtClub.com     
 
What to Wear & Bring to the Part 2 class (3 Hours):
It can be much cooler near and on the water.  Early season classes can be cold.
Be prepared to swim and get wet!  

• Water bottle (filled!), sunhat and retention strap for your eye/sun glasses.
• COVID-19 vaccination proof.
• Wear only SYNTHETIC fabrics, no cotton – it gets soggy and stays soggy. Multiple layers of polyester or nylon are best.  Bring a polar fleece jacket too. If you have a wetsuit, bring it!
• Students MUST wear closed shoes! No sandals, flip flops, or bare feet. Water shoes or old gym shoes work well. You will not be allowed to paddle without proper footwear.
• Students must wear a Type III US Coast Guard approved personal flotation device (PFD - life jacket).  Students should have their own, but NSYC has a few PFDs for use during class if you want to wait before you buy.
• Towel & a change of clothing; it's nice to leave in dry clothes after class.