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ACA LEVEL IV- Open Water (ICE)

Level IV: Open Water Coastal Kayaking Instructor Requirements:
Fundamentally, we expect that paddlers should be experienced sea kayakers in a variety of conditions, including rough water, before presenting themselves for evaluation as instructor candidates at the Open Water Level.
Demonstrate the ability to teach and model the basic paddle strokes:
  • Forward
  • Reverse
  • Forward and reverse sweeps
  • Draw and sculling draw
  • High and low braces

  • Demonstrate the ability to teach and model basic rescue techniques:
  • T-rescue
  • Side-by-Side
  • Rafted-T
  • Paddle Float

  • Also have working knowledge of other rescues:
  • Scramble
  • Reentry and Roll with Paddle Float
  • Reentry and Roll
  • All-In
  • Scoop
  • Sling

  • Demonstrate ability to perform a reliable Eskimo roll (3 rolls within 1 minute, one must be from a non set-up position)
    Demonstrate knowledge of, and ability to teach, the following:
  • Wind, weather and waves
  • Tides and current
  • Chart reading, compass reading and basic navigation
  • Surf zone characteristics and hazards
  • Coastal features and hazards
  • Hypothermia and hyperthermia; prevention and treatment
  • Signaling devices and safety equipment
  • Boat traffic, Rules of the Road
  • Kayak design and equipment
  • Kayak towing technique

  • *Demonstrate ability to paddle comfortably with grace and style in surf, tide rips, and rough water.
    Demonstrate the ability to perform rescues efficiently in rough water.
    Demonstrate leadership and group management skills, experience and judgment necessary to be a safe, effective instructor.
    *Note: Solid rough water skill (paddling in rough conditions with “grace and style”) must be demonstrated before Open Water certification.


    Proficiency Requirements for Open Water Instructor (OW):
    OW certification can not be completed unless during some period two of the conditions necessary for rough water assessment are present during some portion the certification course. Two conditions must occur, but they do not have to be simultaneous. Area of escape from rough conditions must be accessible. The four criteria include:
  • 3-5 foot seas
  • 15-20 knot winds
  • 3-4 foot surf
  • 3-4 knots of current


  • ACA Instructors teach paddling skills in approved ACA course outlines after qualifying in various disciplines and at various levels. ACA Instructors are expected to represent and promote the ACA and paddlesports in a positive manner. ACA Instructors do not issue certificates or certify basic skills, but may issue participation cards to students.

    This is a 3 day Level IV ICE on Open Water Coastal Kayaking. Candidates should; do their homework, read and familiarize themselves with course outline, practice and become proficient with strokes and rescues relevant to their level, familiarize themselves with presentation topics and be ready to nail them, and last but not least….show up (on time) prepared and ready to go!

    This is a instructor certification exam (ICE) designed to test and certify you at your level. Your Instructor Trainer will give you constructive feedback and guidance towards your next step.
    $375 per person on these dates, 3 day course:
    July 10-12
    August 27-29


    Start/ End: Each day 9am to approximately 5pm

    Prerequisite: Students are expected to arrive as experienced and effective rough water paddlers comfortable in 3-5 ft seas, 3-4 ft breaking surf, 3-5 knot current, 20 knot wind. Students MUST have completed a Level IV IDW in the LAST 12 months. Demonstration of roll required to pass. Please call 800-310-4504 with any questions.
    Includes: Practical and written exam for Coastal Kayaking Open Water Instructor certification. Students should arrive ready to paddle with all appropriate equipment. We can supply some of the essentials, but students must request this before class.

    Does Not Include: lodging, transportation, meals, personal gear and clothing. Students can bring their own boat and gear; both need to be equivalent to gear provided , appropriate for class, in good working order and approved by instructor. Please call 800-310-4504 with any questions.

    Locations:
    TBA Please call 800-310-4504