When you make a reservation for a kayak or canoe course at NOC's Paddling School, you'll be asked to complete an assessment of your experience and skills on the water. This is not a test! It's a guideline to help you set goals and to help us provide the best instruction possible to meet those goals.
Beginners Typically, beginners have never paddled before, have paddled fewer than five times, or are switching from another craft. (From canoe to kayak or kayak to canoe)
Intermediate I Intermediate I paddlers can paddle in a straight line on flatwater, and have paddled 5-10 times on whitewater in the past year. They understand and execute basic ferries, peel outs and eddy turns, and feel comfortable when the bow is not pointed downstream. They can self-rescue. Intermediate I kayakers are able to perform wet exits with ease and have completed one successful flatwater roll.
Intermediate II These paddlers are capable on Class II rivers and have paddled at least five times in the past year. They can choose routes through rapids/rivers, and perform ferries, peel-outs and eddy turns in Class II whitewater. They recognize opportunities to catch two-boat eddies midstream. A major characteristic is that Intermediate II paddlers want to improve their technique through better body mechanics. They can roll consistently in Class II whitewater, with the execution of 10 combat rolls in Class II water in last year. They are able to self-rescue regularly, including all gear and can assist others with rescue. They also make use of off-side strokes.
Advanced Advanced paddlers are consistent and confident in Class III-IV whitewater. In Class III water, they can perform crisp ferries, peel outs and eddy turns, and catch one-boat eddies. Advanced paddlers attempt difficult moves that push personal limits, maintaining upright posture along the way. They can roll reliably on Class III water and have performed more than 10 combat rolls in Class III water. An attempt of the hands and off-side rolls is also a characteristic.
