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