courses
courses
paddling courses
Why choose us?
We've been experts in paddlesports instruction for over 14 years. Whether you're a beginner or seasoned paddler, our year-round programs prioritize safety, skill development, and fun. Our mission is to make paddlesporting enjoyable for everyone.
where we operate
participant testimonials
find the perfect fit
custom programs available
Whether you're a business, part of a private group, or just doing your own thing, we've got you covered. We can mix and match sessions to fit your vibe, whether you're keeping it local, going overseas, or landing somewhere in between. We'll make it your kind of program – because why settle for anything less?
Meet your instructors
Simon coward
Simon began instructing around 1997 or 1998 after completing a two-year Polytech course in New Zealand, where he first learned the trade. He’s been teaching in some capacity ever since.
He gravitates toward the technical and foundational aspects of paddling instruction, believing that a few core skills form the base for all paddling and help accelerate learning.
From a progression standpoint, Simon’s favorite teaching river is the Kananaskis, though he enjoys applying those skills on many rivers—too many to name.
vibhor nair
Vibhor has been instructing with AQ for the past two seasons, following several years of raft guiding in the Robson Valley. He brings a calm, supportive energy to his courses and loves helping paddlers build confidence on the water.
His favourite skills to teach are the forward stroke (watching students find efficiency and flow) and the wet exit, where he gets to witness that breakthrough moment when someone conquers their fear of being upside down in a kayak.
The Clearwater River in BC feels like home to Vibhor. It’s where he first learned to paddle, and when he gets the opportunity to teach there, it always feels like a full-circle moment.
Diver relph
Diver has been sharing his passion for paddling for over four years with AQ Outdoors, after first leading trips with Paddle Junkies.
For Diver, teaching isn’t about one specific skill—it’s about those magical “aha” moments when something clicks and a paddler suddenly levels up. That shared stoke is what keeps him inspired on the water.
His favourite spot to teach is on the Crowsnest River below Lundbreck Falls.
jay isaak
Jay began her instructing journey in 2023, making this her third season on the water. As Program Coordinator, she plays a key role in shaping and supporting the experience for both participants and instructors. She primarily teaches youth and loves watching their progression unfold over the course of a season.
A highlight for her is Youth Weekends, when young paddlers bring their families along to share in the fun. Whether she’s working with beginners at Harvie Passage or coaching on the Kananaskis River, Jay brings energy, organization, and enthusiasm to every session.
Courses FAQs
We run programs for businesses, private groups and individuals and can structure the sessions to suit your needs. These programs can be local, overseas and anywhere in between.
Regular Course Cancellation Policy:
AQ Outdoors reserves the right to cancel, reschedule or change the location of the course if the weather conditions, water levels or any other unforeseen circumstances occur that prevent us from running a safe course that provides students with the greatest amount of learning opportunities. In this case, we will reschedule or refund free of charge. If you need to cancel:
- Up to 14 days before a course a $10 cancellation fee will be applied or you can reschedule free of charge.
- Within 0-13 days of the course, NO REFUND or date changes are available.
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Multi-day and Custom Course Cancellation Course Policy:
AQ Outdoors reserves the right to cancel, reschedule, or change the location of the course if the weather conditions, water levels, or any other unforeseen circumstances occur that prevent us from running a safe course that provides students with the greatest amount of learning opportunities. In this case, we will reschedule or refund free of charge.
If you need to cancel:
- Up to 40 days prior to a course a full refund minus a 10% administration fee OR free date change (same calendar year)
- 39 - 30 days prior to the course a 50% refund is available, or a date change can be processed for a session in the same season for a 30% administration fee (subject to availability)
- 29 - 0 days prior to the course NO REFUND or date changes available.
Experience levels are slightly different depending on if you're paddling flatwater or whitewater.
Flatwater
Beginner: You're just starting out kayaking and want to learn the basics.
Intermediate: You're comfortable and self-sufficient, know basic safety skills, and are looking for a bit more challenge whether it's sea kayaking or doing an overnighter.
Whitewater
Beginner: You're just starting out kayaking on the river and want to learn the basics.
Intermediate: You have knowledge of how to do a basic eddy turn and ferry in class II moving water. You are able to wet exit and are looking to move into class III and learn more technical whitewater skills.
Advanced: You are comfortable on class III, have a reliable roll in whitewater, have maybe done some class IV, and are looking to move into more challenging class IV/V water and multi-day trips.
Still not sure what course is right for you? Take our quiz to find out!
Yes, gear is included with almost all our courses (Unless stated otherwise). If you need gear and did not indicate that in your registration, please let us know by emailing courses@aqoutdoors.com
While there is no obligation to enter into this agreement with us, it is a condition of our service provision to sign the waiver. Review AQ Outdoors Waiver of Liability & Indemnity Agreement Here.
Yes, our course prices are all listed in CAD$.
Contact us
Drop us a message and we'll get back to you as soon as possible.