This is a L-4 open water skills training course designed to enhance your ability to deal with the myriad issues presented by paddling on open water. We’ll focus on boat control including, how to blend strokes and how to use wind, waves and current to your advantage. There also will be an emphasis on bracing, getting more comfortable with edging in bigger conditions, advanced rescues, and group management scenarios in open water. In addition to paddling skills development, topics include tide & chart interpretation and use, radio use, marine and shipping hazards, and more.

The venue will be the area off Smith Island at the southern end of the Virginia Barrier Islands.

This course is not for beginners or novice paddlers. Participants should have a solid foundation in basic strokes, braces and self and assisted rescues. A roll is helpful, but not required. A helmet is required.