Expedition Basic Training - Polar

Tailored training in preparation for guided expeditions in polar regions to a maximum of Beaufort scale 3 to 4.

Over more than two decades of kayak coaching, NOMAD Sea Kayaking has trained dozens of individuals & couples in preparation for their cruise to a polar region & subsequent sea kayak trip to visit local wildlife colonies. 

The cruise lines have high safety standards to adhere to, particularly operating in the harsh environs of extreme cold in the Arctic & Antarctic regions. Prior to anyone being accepted to their guided excursion, participants must meet a basic safety criteria of skills, listed generally as follows;

1. Proper use & understanding of sea kayak equipment.
2. Lifting & carrying of kayaks.
3. Overview of kayak parts, hatches, rudder & foot peg adjustment.
4. Safe entry & exit from a kayak on a beach & a floating dock.
5. Proper paddling posture.
6. Efficient forward paddling technique.
7. Stop & backwards paddling.
8. Manoeuvring a kayak without a rudder.
9. Paddling technique for windy conditions.
10. On water communication including hand & paddle signals.
11. Capsize & wet exit drill.
12. Assisted deep water recoveries as casualty & recoverer.
13. Basic seamanship; affect of weather & tides on kayakers.

All of the above is covered with additional training around clothing, particularly the layering system & basic safety equipment & its correct use. We also climatise paddlers to being in deep water comfortably & safely whilst maintaining direct contact with their kayak at all times should they capsize.

Time on water: Up to a maximum of five (5) hours with one hour lunch break & one hour beach coaching.

This is a very full day with a lot to take onboard; guests are encouraged to record information on their smart phone or to use notebooks throughout the day. We also strongly recommend that guests take every opportunity to paddle as much as they can in between their training & their actual event.

Opportunities to gain paddle experience here.