Learning to Paddle: The Full Day Experience
From zero to river-ready in one day. Learn the skills, then paddle the journey.
$80 – $120
Book online now!
Start your paddling journey the right way. Renting a boat without lessons is like trying to drive without driver’s ed—stressful and potentially risky. If you want to enjoy the Grand River but don’t feel confident steering a canoe or kayak, this is the course for you. We combine a morning of calm-water instruction with an afternoon river trip, giving you the perfect environment to learn, practice, and master the basics.
Start your journey off right
Morning: The Foundation We start on calm water, where mistakes don’t matter. Your Paddle Canada Certified instructor will walk you through the essentials: how to hold the paddle, how to execute the perfect J-stroke (so you don’t go in circles), and how to balance your boat. It’s a low-pressure environment where you can ask questions and get comfortable.
Afternoon: The Application Once you have the basics down, we leave the “classroom” and hit the river. This isn’t just a test; it’s a guided adventure. You’ll paddle a scenic stretch of the Grand River with your instructor right there beside you. You’ll learn to read the current, navigate around obstacles, and lock in your new skills in the real world.
Why This Works Most people learn to paddle by trial and error (mostly error). By combining instruction with a real trip, you don’t just memorize strokes—you build muscle memory. You’ll leave the day feeling like a true paddler, ready to rent a boat on your own next weekend.
The Lesson Plan
Book your Sunday session. We handle the rest.
- Meet & Greet: Arrive at the launch (Bingemans or Brant Park). We get you fitted with a PFD and boat.
- Calm Water Clinic: Spend the morning mastering the strokes and safety maneuvers on still water.
- Lunch Break: Take a break to refuel (bring a lunch!) and rest your arms.
- River Run: Launch into the current for a guided afternoon trip, applying what you learned under expert supervision.
Highlights
- Two-Part Learning: Theory in the morning, adventure in the afternoon.
- Certified Guides: Learn from Paddle Canada instructors who know how to teach effectively.
- Real River Experience: Don’t just learn in a pond; apply your skills on the Grand River.
- Small Groups: Get the personal attention you need to correct your form.
What’s included
- Full-day professional instruction.
- Canoe or Kayak rental & PFD.
- Morning Skills Clinic.
- Afternoon Guided River Trip.
- Shuttle service (if applicable to the specific route).
What to Bring
- Fuel: A hearty lunch and snacks. You will be active all day.
- Water: At least 1-2 Liters.
- Clothing: Quick-drying activewear (swimwear underneath is smart). No jeans.
- Footwear: Water shoes or strap-on sandals. You will get your feet wet.
- Sun Protection: Hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen.
Need to Know
- Locations: Kitchener (Bingemans) OR Brantford (Brant Park). Check your booking confirmation for your specific location.
- Availability: Sundays (May to October).
- Skill Level: Absolute Beginner to Novice.
- Lunch: Lunch is not included. Please bring a packed lunch and plenty of water.
Disclaimer
Participants must acknowledge and accept all inherent risks associated with paddling and outdoor activities offered by Grand Experiences. All participants release and waive any claims against Grand Experiences, its staff, affiliates, and property owners for any injury, loss, or damage incurred during participation. Each participant is responsible for their own safety and for any minor children in their care. A properly fitted lifejacket must be worn at all times while on the water.