Sea Trek’s ACA Level 2: Essentials of Kayak Touring Instructor Development Workshop (IDW) and Instructor Certification Exam (ICE) is your pathway into professional paddlesports instruction. This course equips you with the skills, knowledge, and leadership experience to effectively teach beginner kayakers in calm, sheltered waters. Whether you’re a passionate paddler or an aspiring coach, the L2 certification is the launchpad for your instructor journey.

This course takes place in sheltered coastal environments, with conditions not exceeding Level 2 parameters:

• Winds under 10 knots

• Waves under 1 foot

• Close-to-shore paddling (within 0.5 NM)

• Low current and minimal surf

This course will be led by Laura Zulliger, ACA L4 Open Water Instructor Trainer. Please read the full ACA L2 Essentials of Kayak Touring Instructor Criteria prior to registering.

Course Dates

• Full IDW/ICE: Sept 22 – Sept 25th

• IDW: Sept. 22 – Sept. 23

• IDE: Sept. 24 – Sept. 25

This course is ideal for:

• Recreational kayakers with solid foundational skills

• Outdoor educators and guides looking to formalize their teaching

• Those interested in progressing through the ACA instructor pathway

Not sure if you’re ready? You should be confident in demonstrating Level 2 paddling skills, including rescues and towing. Candidates are expected to exceed Level 2 skills standards before entering the course.

What to Expect

Over four immersive days, you’ll participate in both instructional development and formal evaluation. You’ll build and hone skills in:

• Planning and delivering engaging, student-centered lessons

• Teaching strokes, maneuvers, rescues, and towing in sheltered water

• Risk management and group leadership

• Trip planning, navigation, and environmental awareness

• Assessing paddler performance and providing effective feedback

This combined IDW/ICE format includes both training and assessment. Successful candidates will leave certified to teach ACA Level 1 and Level 2 kayak touring courses.

What You’ll Leave With

• ACA Level 2 Instructor Certification (for successful ICE candidates)

• A strong foundation in instructional leadership

• Practical teaching experience

• The ability to plan and deliver safe, effective, and fun kayaking courses

PREREQUISITES

• ACA membership (join at americancanoe.org)

• Successful completion of an ACA L2 Skills Assessment (or equivalent proficiency)

• Current First Aid and CPR certification

• Age 18+

• Familiarity with ACA’s Code of Conduct and DEI initiatives