Level-1 Classes: These are appropriate for beginning paddlers who want to learn to transition quickly to the enjoyable aspects of paddling and learn well from the start avoiding development of bad habits. These classes are open to all paddlers of normal physical ability. All participants will learn to properly fit and wear a personal flotation device (PFD) or live vest, how to properly hold and use a paddle and how to safely perform a wet exit in case of a capsize. See our class write up for details on preparation and proper dress.

Level-2 Classes: In second level classes we assume participants have basic experience with level-1 skills, but these classes are open to all. If you have not familiar with the wet-exit you will need to do so before class begins as we plan to exit our boats repeatedly in Level-2 classes. If you have questions about PFD fit or paddle nomenclature and use, please advise us prior to class.

Level-3 Classes: For third level classes we require that participants are already successful at level 2 skills. Typically these skills are needed to participate successfully in the drills we set up to learn level-3 skills. If you have not completed a level-2 class with us be prepared to review your previous experience with classes and training.

Level-4 Classes: These classes are designed for paddlers who are already competent with Level-3 skills. We assume you are familiar with the craft, paddle regularly and are ready for more challenging conditions and difficult maneuvers. Be prepared to review your paddling and training experience, boat and gear prior to the class. Many Level-4 classes require a helmet, if you do not have one please advise us in advance of the class.

Skill Assessment: There is no better way to build confidence in your skills than to take a formal skill assessment from a certified Instructor. Clubs, Camps and Scout troops use this to validate skills and determine who can participate in trips of varying difficulty. Individuals may need a formal assessment card in order to demonstrate competency for a summer job or to as screening before attending an upper level class, or they may simply want to be sure of their skills before taking on a significant personal challenge. Whatever the reason, we try to make our assessments useful, enjoyable and rewarding. Assessments we offer are listed below.

Trip Leader Training & Assessment is an intense two-day class combining leadership theory with on-water practice and incorporating on-water assessment scenarios with a written exam. Clubs, Shops, Camps and Scout Troops all have need of qualified trip leaders. On a personal note, if you are leading friends on trips you owe it to them to be prepared for unexpected events. Successful candidates will be granted an official ACA Trip Leader Assessment card. This class requires a minimum of 4 candidates.

Instructor Development & Certification This is a demanding multi-day program for the dedicated, experienced paddler who desires to bring others successfully to the sport. This program assumes that candidates are trained and proficient at the instructor level they are challenging and can perform model quality strokes, maneuvers and recoveries. If you have doubt of your capabilities a formal skill assessment is a good place to begin. We will develop teaching skills starting with theory then populate the instructor toolbox through practical exercises. Along the way we will work to perfect the one or two weak areas that even the best candidates have. The program is broken into equal parts, starting with an instructor Development Workshop (IDW) followed by a hiatus for practice then the Instructor Certification Exam (ICE). Sometimes, if time is limited the sponsoring organization will request an Instructor Certification Workshop (ICW) which eliminates the hiatus period.

ACA requires a minimum of 4 candidates to schedule IDW, ICE or ICW. All candidates must be current ACA members at least 18 years of age. In addition to membership fees, all candidates are required to pay separate Instructor due to the Safety, Education and Instruction office which offsets the cost of tracking Instructor performance.

Private Lessons are a great way to advance your training. With no distractions, privacy to make mistakes and total instructor attention to work on specific areas paddlers advance more quickly to meet their goals. Some schedule personal lessons because they are not available for scheduled classes. Some need focused training to meet specific goals by a specified time. Whatever the case we are happy to find time to meet your needs and enjoy the opportunity to concentrate on your training.

Class Locations: We are regularly teaching on Long Island and can often find time for a private Lesson in conjunction with scheduled gigs. We are also happy to travel to your location to organize a class at your request, please realize that we still have to cover our travel costs in addition to our normal fees. Students are also welcome to visit us at any of our regular Connecticut class locations if they cannot join a class on Long Island.

Standard Fees: We benchmark our fees and they are typically lower than other commercial Instructors in our region. Our fees for basic training have not changed significantly in the past 10 years. Below are listed our standard fees. They vary depending on class size and duration of the class and reflect the cost of running a typical class. Unfortunately, to cover our preparation and after-work we have had to institute a minimum fee for any class and charge for travel when it is required. Be advised that we offer discounts for a continuing program of lessons. We also offer discounted quotes for organizations and larger groups. Different rates apply for Advanced training such as Trip Leader Training or Instructor Development - Inquire.