Instructional Classes

Prerequisites for WROTC Classes

Except where specifically noted, participation in WROTC classes does not require any prior training in kayaking.
All kayaking equipment will be provided by WROTC. If you wish to bring/use any of your own equipment, please check with the office prior to the event in order to ensure that your equipment is appropriate for the event in which you have enrolled.
Participants must be at least 16 years old to participate unless stated on the individual class.
We believe that safety is a key part of any WROTC Trip or Tour and all of our lead guides and/or instructors are ACA certified.

Kid's Camp

Are your kids itching to try out kayaking?

This Kayak Camp provides instruction in paddling skills and kayak safety in a controlled environment that is interesting, challenging and fun! The 2-day program is filled with activities that will more than whet their appetite! Guests will learn about kayaks, paddling strokes, safety equipment and proper rescue techniques with paddling games thought the day, ending with a short tour of the area each day.

Date: June 26 and 27 Time: 8.00am–12.00pm Location: Lake Smith
Age Limit: 10–15 years old

Cost: $200 per person

Call 757 431-8566 for further details and to book.

Basic Strokes & Rescues

The recommended starting point for all kayakers.

Our ACA certified instructors provide a thorough, safe, and enjoyable introduction to coastal kayaking. This course introduces participants to kayak terminology, proper fit and adjustment for effective boat control, entering a kayak from shore, safe ‘wet-exits’, solo and assisted rescues in deep water and the core strokes to make a kayak move forward, backwards, sideways or in an arc to turn or to spin in place. This is a full day event, pack a lunch, snacks, and water.

Minimum Age: 16 years Prerequisites: No prior training

Call 757 431-8566 for further details and to book.

"The location was great, the instructors knowledgeable and friendly. I learned an incredible amount in one day! Thanks to all for a great experience!" Beth, Norfolk, VA

Private Instruction

Feel more comfortable with one-on-one instruction? Would you prefer a training session designed to meet your specific goals? Receive customized training at a location of your choosing – possibly even in your own 'backyard!'

Our ACA certified instructors can provide you with custom, personalized training from basic skills to the most advanced paddling skills and techniques! We will meet your schedule and bring the training to you!

A Private Instruction session can be arranged for 1 to 4 people, half or full day, weekdays or weekends. Call WROTC on 757 431-8566 to arrange your private instruction.

Minimum Age: 10 years old Prerequisites: No prior training

"The Private Instruction met all of my expectations! It was a great day on the water, and I left feeling much more comfortable in a kayak.
The skills WROTC taught will serve me well on the water." Lindy, Gloucester, VA

Group Instruction

There's little that is more rewarding and exciting (and sometimes entertaining) than seeing your co-workers perform a 'wet exit' followed by a paddle float rescue. And if you want to emphasize teamwork and communication, we'll have you rescuing each other using one of several kayak rescue techniques. Our experienced ACA certified instructors will tailor a day on the water according to your group’s objectives that will enhance everyone's paddling and rescue skills, as well as group communication, team work and leadership skills and more!

Call WROTC 757 431-8566 to arrange a group kayak instructional class – if you're going to work and paddle as a group, it makes good sense to train as a group.

Minimum Age: 16 years old Prerequisites: No prior training

Multi Day Instruction

In 3 days, we cover it all: basic and advanced strokes, rescues, towing, and trip planning plus there is time for nature walks, sunrise and sunset paddles, and much more! All you bring are "clothes to paddle in" and "clothes to lounge around in".

This event will be either a camping or B&B format. Call for details. This is usually run as a custom trip/class for team-building for your company, family reunion or group of friends.

Minimum age: more appropriate for adults, but we will accommodate your group as needed
Prerequisite: No prior training

Schedule each day varies with locations and needs of guests