Introduction to Sea kayaking Course

About the course

This short course gives you an introduction to sea kayaking and the equipment used, and is the first course in the NPF training ladder, known as the Wetcard (Våttkort). The course focuses on maneuvering the kayak through simple practical exercises, so that after completion you will feel comfortable in the kayak. You will also learn how to get out of the kayak in case of a capsize. The aim is to have a fun introduction to sea kayaking that will motivate you for further training. 

At the end of the course you will receive a Wetcard (Våttkort) with a sticker to confirm completion of the Introduction Course (Introduksjonskurs). The next step is to take the Basic Course (Grunnkurs). Many kayak rental operators in Norway require you to have a wetcard before renting out kayaks.

The training agency for the course is the Norwegian Paddle Association (NPF) and all courses provided by Wandering Owl or Wild Lab Projects follow training standards, with a qualified  Activity Leader as your instructor. 

Summary of course details

Season: 15th June - 15th September 

Duration: 3 hours 

Group size: 2 - 4 pax

Minimum age: 14 years old (parents' permission required)

Meeting time: 08:50 in front of Senja Roasters, Stonglandseidet

Departure: 09:00  

Inclusions: Drysuits & boots (adult sizes only), kayaks and related necessary equipment, biscuits & hot chocolate, Wetcard certification cards and registration.

Prerequisites: Be a confident swimmer, and to have no major shoulder, neck or back injuries that would impede paddling or climbing in and out of the kayak.

Good to know: Kayak drysuits don't prevent all water from entering the drysuit. Often participants will have some water around neck and wrists. Please wear a good merino wool base layer for thermal protection.

Safety considerations: The course is an active, in-water activity and involves some walking (at least 200m) and handling/carrying equipment; the conditions may be icy, slippery, uneven, muddy, snowy, or otherwise. The temperatures may be cold (sometimes below 0°C) or could be warm. Please ensure you are wearing appropriate clothing underneath your drysuit and bring a change of clothes for afterwards. 

What are the skills acquired during the course?

• Lifting, carrying and launching kayaks

• Forward paddling in a straight line

• Stopping the kayak

• Turning the kayak both ways

• Backwards paddling

• Capsize and get out of the kayak satisfactorily (Wet exit)

• Landing

• Sitting position and good paddling technique

• Introduction to how to increase safety when paddling

• Knowledge of local paddling conditions.