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SEA KAYAK guides COURSE

Our Sea Kayak Guides course is for individuals passionate about sharing their love for the ocean with others. This program will equip you with the necessary tools and expertise to lead memorable sea kayak expeditions in commercial and school environments.

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Through a combination of theoretical instruction and hands-on practical training, you will learn essential leadership skills, effective communication techniques, and group management strategies. Dive into topics such as risk assessment, emergency protocols, and weather interpretation, ensuring that you can confidently navigate challenging situations while prioritising safety and sustainability.

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Our experienced instructors will also provide valuable insights on trip planning, itinerary development, and client engagement, enabling you to create unforgettable experiences for your future guests.  Upon completion of the course, you will be well-prepared to pursue a career as a professional sea kayak guide, sharing your passion for the ocean while providing memorable and enriching experiences for your clients.

 

Take the leap and join our guides course to unlock an ocean of possibilities!

​OVERVIEW:

This course aligns with both Paddle Australia (Australia's National Peak Paddling Body) and the national Vocational, Education and Training (VET) system.  It is a sea kayaking short course designed to provide you with a solid foundation for commercial or school work.

For those new to the beautiful world of sea kayaking, this is the prefect starting point.  For those who already have some sea kayaking experience, this is best way to formalise your skills and get qualified.

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The course covers the following:

  • Risk management

  • Technical paddling skills

  • Rescue techniques

  • Leading and managing groups 

  • Route Planning

  • Weather interpretation

 

Please note to receive a formal qualification you must successfully complete an online theory component as well as a practical assessment. 

DURATION:

  • 4 days on water + evening theory sessions

  • This course involves 3 nights of camping close to Tasmanian coastal areas

 

COSTS:

Sea Kayaking Course = $955

Includes the following:

  • Professional sea kayak instruction

  • Access to our online learning platform

  • Training & Assessment for Paddle Australia &/or VET units

  • Parks and Wildlife Camping Fees

The following is NOT included:

  • Food and snacks

  • Personal camping and cooking equipment

  • Sea kayak or paddling equipment

Additional Costs (if required):

  • Sea kayak boat and paddle hire = $45 per day 

  • Paddle Australia Award & Registration = $180

  • VET Units = $165

QUALIFICATION POSSIBILITIES:

Depending on your existing skill base and how well you perform throughout the course you may be eligible for Paddle Australia qualifications, VET certifications OR both (if you want them).

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Further down the page is a table that provides you with a comparison of the qualification possibilities that are available to you if you successfully complete the theory and practical requirements of the course:

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How do I choose which qualifications are best for me?

  • It is highly recommended that any professional paddling guide has a Paddle Australia qualification and membership. This means you are aligned with the National Peak Body, are required to log your experience to renew your qualification every 3 years, and are kept abreast of any updates in your field of expertise. 

  • If you are wanting or working towards higher level qualifications (such as a Certificate IV in Outdoor Leadership or Guiding), the sea kayaking VET units count towards your course, fulfilling those higher outcomes.

  • Depending on where you are working as a sea kayak guide in Australia, some employers want you to have the Paddle Australia qualification and others prefer the VET units. Check with your employer as to which one they require. 

  • Both the Paddle Australia and the VET units come with an additional financial cost (on top of the course fee). Here is the breakdown of those EXTRA costs if you are successful in achieving a qualification:

    • Paddle Australia - Registration Fee for your qualification = $180 (this must be renewed every 3 years including fulfilling the PA Log Book requirements for your qualification)

    • VET Units = $165 for all the units attached to your sea kayaking qualification. There is no ongoing fees but every 5 years the units are updated and if you have not done any paddling in that period, prospective employers will request that you update your qualification. A log book is a great way to show an employer your currency!

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