Beginners' course in kayaking teaches you the basic paddling skills in a safe environment!
Kayaking is a versatile hobby that seamlessly combines active exercise with relaxation in nature. You can take part in this kayaking course without any previous experience!
On this course you will learn the basic kayaking techniques and pair rescue. You will also have an understanding on needed paddling equipment and independent trip planning.
Eastern Helsinki archipelago is a great kayaking destination
The Vuosaari Paddling Centre is close to dozens of outdoor islands, beautiful marine nature and little other water traffic. It's a great place to learn to paddle - and to continue paddling after the course!
The beginners' course takes place on three consecutive evenings from Tuesday to Thursday from 18.00 to 21.30.
Natura Viva Paddling Courses - Small group sizes and professional guides
All Natura Viva instructors are experienced paddling professionals. We keep our beginner courses small and have the best student-instructor ratio in the industry.
Natura Viva's beginner paddling course follows the content recommendations of Suomen Melonta- ja Soutuliitto. The aim of the course is to give the participant the ability to continue practicing independently in a safe manner. The duration of the course is 10 hours, most of which is spent on the water.
Natura Viva Season Pass is a great addition to beginner course!
We also support you in continuing your hobby - after completing the course, you will receive a free two-hour kayak rental at Vuosaari Kayaking Centre or equal discount on Natura Viva season passes!
Read more about the Season Passes!
Course programme
Getting in and out of the kayak.
Paddling forward and backward with the right technique and stopping the kayak.
Turning the kayak using different techniques.
Capsizing, getting out of a capsized kayak and getting back in the kayak.
Acting as a rescuer in a capsize situation.
Moving the kayak sideways.
By the end of the course, you will know the different types of kayaks, paddles and equipment and the basics of kayak safety.
Additional information
Vuosaaren Melontakeskus, Harbonkatu 13, 00980 Helsinki
Number of participants: 7
The beginners course will take place on three consecutive evenings (Tue-Thu) from 18:00-21:30
Professional guides
No previous paddling experience is required. Minimum age 16 years (parental permission required for under 18 years)
The course can also be paid for directly online with Epassi, Smartum and Edenred.
The price includes:
Instruction and guidance during the course
Kayak
Paddle, sprayskirt and paddling vest
Free 2h kayak rental / benefit of Natura Viva season pass
Until the end of May, you can borrow a dry suit for rescue training. From the beginning of June, you can borrow the lower part of a wet suit for rescue training.
