Sea Kayak Touring - Level 3 – Confident Coastal Skills

Sea Kayak Touring - Level 3 – Confident Coastal Skills

What to Expect

Level 3 paddlers are self-reliant and capable of extended coastal trips (30 km+), with strong skills for group support and rescue. Focus is on independent paddling, risk management, and advanced technique.

Conditions

• Moderately exposed coastlines with short crossings (<5 km)

• Wind: Beaufort Force 4 (20–30 km/h)

• Light surf (<0.5 m) and moderate currents (<4 knots)

Key Competencies

• Advanced self- and assisted rescues, including towing and surf handling

• Efficient forward and reverse paddling; steering with rudder, skeg, or edging

• Low and high recovery strokes, sculling for support, low brace turns, bow/stern rudders

• Trip planning, navigation, and weather interpretation

• VHF radio use and emergency communication

• First aid and temperature exposure management

Focus

Confidently handle moderate sea conditions, support others, and navigate longer journeys independently.