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Kayaking 303 : Tidal Tutorial

  • Full day course
  • Tides and tidal currents
  • Current prediction
  • Ferrying
  • Vector analysis
  • Reading currents
  • Surfing
  • Rescues


  • New England is blessed with some of the finest river mouths and harbors in the United States. It also has some very strong tidal currents in some of these same spots. It so happens these are really exciting and challenging places to paddle with the right skills, experience and attitude.

    In this program, you will learn how to predict and judge tidal current strength, cross a moving tidal stream and efficiently, and use tidal currents to your advantage. Our instructors will show you how to surf on standing waves, deal with following seas, and cross eddy lines. They will also show you how to smile and wave at the cameras, because you will be so cool at the end of this class! This course is for the experienced paddler looking to play safely in tidal currents and rips up to 4 knots. Takes place in open conditions in Fischer’s Island Sound.
    Tidal Tutorial

    Course offered 7 days a week:
    $275 + $100 each additional person

    Special Group Rate:
    $115 per person on these dates May 23
    July 11
    September 22


    Start/ End: 9am to approximately 4pm

    Prerequisite: Strokes and Rescues Course, Ocean Movement and Motion Course or equivalent experience.
    Includes: Kayak, paddle, PFD and paddling jacket/wetsuit if needed. 20% discount coupon to Eastern Mountain Sports. Paddlers 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.

    Does Not Include: Lodging, transportation, meals, personal gear and clothing.

    Directions: Location may vary based on weather. Please call 800-310-4504 for directions.

    WHAT TO BRING?

    Shop for Gear!
    Please come dressed for the weather and prepared with the appropriate gear and clothing for your kayak program. Below is a list of gear and clothing recommended by the Eastern Mountain Sports Kayak School. If you have any questions please call 800-310-4504.

    Neoprene long or short sleeve top
    Neoprene is recommended. Any non-cotton material is appropriate as well.


    Non-cotton pants or shorts
    This will depend on the weather and season. Wetsuits are available from the Kayak School for spring, summer and early fall paddling. Drysuits are used for cold weather paddling.


    Water shoes
    Can be provided by the Kayak School upon request. No open toed shoes please.
    Food and Water
  • Lunch and snacks (sandwich, chips, bars, etc...)
  • 1 liter or more of water

    Additional Items
  • Sunglasses
  • Sunscreen
  • Hat
  • Bug spray
  • Camera
  • Dry bag (optional)
  • Extra change of clothes and towel

    Kayak School will provide
    You are welcome to bring your own boat and gear. Both need to be equivalent to gear provided, appropriate for class, in good working order and approved by the instructor. Call 800-310-4504 with any questions.
  • Kayak (singles and tandems)
  • Paddle
  • PFD
  • Spray skirt
  • Spray jacket
  • Wet suit
  • Dry suit (seasonal)

  • Missing anything on this list?
    Don't forget your 20% discount EMS coupon that comes with your Climbing School confirmation letter!