You have questions, we have answers

• Don't kayaks tip over easily?
• Do touring kayaks come in sizes to fit me?
• Do I need to learn to do an eskimo roll or wet exit?
• I could never get a canoe to go straight or glide across the lake.
• I've never kayaked or done much canoeing. Can I still take your class?
• Can I bring the kids?
• Do you offer private or group lessons?

Don't kayaks tip over easily?
Touring kayaks are far more stable than most canoes. In a kayak you are sitting lower and your center of gravity is much better. Whitewater kayaks are a whole different story, but that's not what we use. Put the vision of hurtling over waterfalls out of your mind. Instead, think of gliding effortlessly across a pond with the sun setting and deer coming down to drink.

Do touring kayaks come in sizes to fit me?
Yes they do! Touring kayaks come in sizes from 10 to 15 feet long and are designed for people from 90 to 260 pounds. Hull and seat designs come in wide varieties, allowing us to match you with equipment to maximize your safety and comfort. The registration form asks for height and weight. For safety and performance It is very important that this be accurate. Don't worry, we won't tell a soul.

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Do I need to do an Eskimo roll or wet exit?
No. For paddling fun around the shoreline and coves of Michigan's quiet waters, you'll never need to execute a roll. Advanced techniques like rolls are reqiured when crossing long stretches of open water, or spending extended time in cold deep water.

I could never get a canoe to go straight or glide across the lake.
Kayaks are far easier to paddle than canoes. This is due in part to the hull design, and in part to the double bladed paddle. Kayaks are also much lighter than most recreational canoes. It is no easy task for two people who do not regularly canoe together to jump into a rental canoe and make it go straight. However, you'll be delighted at how quickly you can learn to paddle a kayak.

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I've never been in a kayak, or even done much canoeing. Can I still take your class?
Our school is for beginners only. Most of students are new to the sport. We specialize in teaching timid, worried, curious first timers. If you wish to pursue the sport, you'll leave us with knowledge to make an informed buying choice, and the skill to make it perform.

Can I bring the kids?
No. It doesn't work to put kids and adults together in the same class. Most kids learn very fast, and are anxious and impatient to take off and explore before the parents are ready. Also, the difference in size and weight can cause kids to drift away during instruction, while the adults remain stationary. We are in the process of formatting a class just for kids. If you are interested let us know and we'll inform you as soon as we begin accepting students for it.

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Do you offer private or group lessons?
Yes. For those desiring private lessons, or perhaps you have already purchased kayaks and gear and want to refine your technique, we offer private lessons for $150. You can bring a friend or family member and we will work with two of you for $200. These sessions focus on what you want to learn from us. Maybe you think your paddle is too long. We'll check it out. Perhaps you need specific advice on car topping your kayaks. Does your kayak fit you well? We'll try and address your questions and work on the paddling skills you want developed. Call for date/time options. For some students, private sessions are the most rewarding and get them on a faster learning curve.

In some cases, we can come to your lakeside cottage or home and bring our kayak fleet for unique entertainment for your guests.

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