Learn to Kayak in a Day
Learn to Kayak in a Day
Duration: 6-7 hrs. Distance: +/- 2nm. Group Size: 6. Coaches: x2. Coach Ratio: 3:1. Incl: Kayak, paddle & buoyancy aid. Skills: Beginner. Fitness: Basic.
Learn to Paddle Safely, Confidently and Independently in Just One Day
Always wanted to try kayaking but not sure where to start?
Our 'Learn to Paddle in a Day' course is designed specifically for complete beginners and those with little or no previous paddling experience.
In just one enjoyable day, you'll gain the essential skills, knowledge and confidence needed to paddle safely, understand your equipment and take the next steps in your kayaking journey.
No experience required.
No specialist equipment required.
Just a sense of adventure and a willingness to learn.
The Outcome
By the end of the course, you will:
- Understand how to safely control and manoeuvre a kayak
- Learn the essential paddling skills used by kayakers worldwide
- Know what to do if a kayak capsizes
- Understand which equipment and clothing you genuinely need
- Feel confident taking part in future kayaking trips and training
- Know exactly what your next steps should be
Most importantly, you'll leave with the confidence to get on the water safely and enjoy the sport.
What You'll Learn
Stage 1: Understanding Your Kayak
Learn how kayaks work and why they behave the way they do.
You'll discover:
- Kayak design and stability
- Paddle selection and use
Efficient paddling technique
How to make the kayak go where you want it to go
Stage 2: Essential On-Water Skills
Put theory into practice on the water.
You'll learn:
- Forward paddling
- Turning and manoeuvring
- Basic kayak control
- Communication on the water
- Assisted recovery techniques
- What to do in the event of a capsize
Stage 3: Equipment & Clothing
Avoid wasting money on unnecessary equipment.
We'll explain:
- What you need
- What you don't need
- Clothing for different seasons
- Safety equipment essentials
- Future equipment options as your skills develop
Included Bonuses
Beginner's Equipment Guide
Receive practical advice on selecting your first kayak, paddle and safety equipment.
Personal Development Advice
We'll help you identify the best next step for your interests, whether that's sea kayaking, kayak fishing, river paddling or recreational touring.
Post-Course Support
Questions after the course? Contact us by email and we'll help point you in the right direction.
Our Confidence Guarantee
We're confident you'll leave with significantly more knowledge, confidence and practical paddling ability than when you arrived.
If you fully participate in the course and genuinely feel it hasn't helped you progress, we'll work with you to find an appropriate solution.
Why Learn with NOMAD?
Safe
- 100% safety record over 21 years teaching.
- Stable, high-quality kayaks
- British Canoe and I.S.K.G.A. qualified coaches
- More than 21 years of professional coaching experience
Award-Winning Coaching
Our coaching team has been recognised for delivering high-quality experiences and is among the most experienced full-time sea kayak coaching teams in the UK.
All Inclusive
The advertised price includes everything you need.
No hidden costs.
No unexpected extras.
Simply arrive and enjoy the day.
Flexible Options
- Choose between a sit-on-top or touring kayak
- Use your own kayak if preferred
- Optional dry storage solutions available
- Weather protection options available
Healthy & Enjoyable
Kayaking offers:
- Excellent low-impact exercise
- Fresh air and open spaces
- Improved confidence
- Time away from screens and daily pressures
- Opportunities to meet like-minded people
Environmentally Responsible
Kayaking allows you to explore nature with minimal impact.
- No engine noise
- No fuel pollution
- Close-to-nature experiences
- Responsible wildlife interaction practices
We believe outdoor adventure should inspire conservation, not compromise it.
Course Information
- Start: 10:00am
- Finish: Approximately 4:00pm–5:00pm
- Suitable for all ages and abilities
- No previous experience required
- All equipment provided
Your First Step Into Kayaking Starts Here
Whether your goal is kayak fishing, leisurely coastal paddling, river kayaking or future sea kayaking adventures, this course provides the safe, structured foundation you need.
Join hundreds of paddlers who started their kayaking journey with NOMAD and discover just how enjoyable learning to paddle can be.
Nigel Walter
May 2nd 2021
Great to meet you both! We loved your ‘get stuck in’ attitude and know that you will both be great as you expand your paddling skills. Looking forward to seeing you again soon.
Nomad
Bruce Pearce
May 2nd 2021
It was great paddling with you and we look forward to hearing of your up coming adventures in your new kayaks. Remember, practice, practice, practice and we look forward to seeing you soon!
Nomad
Kathryn Walter
May 2nd 2021
Sorry for the late review. The amazing venue and Nomad Sea Kayaking (Kurt & Becky) were most welcoming, making for a relaxing session, ensuring that you could ask questions or for guidance without any concerns. Look forward to the next course.
Thor Hanssen
July 11th 2021
Thank you Thor! It was a pleasure to work with you both and we would love to see you again on the water. Don’t forget to bring Milo too!
Nomad
Location
Alton Water Sports Centre, IP9 2RY
4th July 2026, 10:00 AM
Sit on top kayak, buoyancy aid & paddle included. Touring kayaks available.
Pay & Display
Toilets are available on site - please enter through the main gate & take a ticket. Follow the road towards the water & turn left into the carpark. You will see our kayak trailer & vehicle at the front of the carpark, nearest the water.
Please bring along a fold-up chair or blanket for the theory sections as we'll be working on the grass in the afternoon. Picnic tables are available.