CTSA Paddling Courses – Summer 2026
Open to Explorers, Senior Explorers, and their families
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Discover the joy of paddling this summer with certified canoeing and kayaking courses designed specifically for the CTSA community. Whether you're brand‑new to the water or looking to advance your skills, these courses offer hands‑on instruction, nationally recognized certification, and a welcoming environment for youth and adults alike.
All programs are taught at Guelph Lake Conservation Area by qualified ORCKA instructors. How to Register: To reserve your spot, email: [email protected] Courses fill quickly — we are already receiving requests from the public, so early registration is encouraged. Who Can Participate
Course Fees Special CTSA pricing for 2026:
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ORCKA Canoeing Courses
Basic Canoeing – Level 1Dates:
Certification: ORCKA Basic Canoeing Level 1
This introductory course teaches foundational paddling strokes, safety, teamwork, and canoe handling. Perfect for first‑time paddlers or those looking to build confidence on the water. This course is limited to 9 participants
Basic Canoeing – Level 2Dates:
Certification: ORCKA Basic Canoeing Level 2
Level 2 builds on the fundamentals with more advanced strokes, manoeuvres, and safety skills. Ideal for paddlers who have completed Level 1 or have equivalent experience. This course is limited to 9 participants
Optional:
- July 4, 2026
- July 18, 2026
- July 25, 2026
- August 1, 2026
- August 16, 2026
- August 22, 2026
- August 29, 2026
Certification: ORCKA Basic Canoeing Level 1
This introductory course teaches foundational paddling strokes, safety, teamwork, and canoe handling. Perfect for first‑time paddlers or those looking to build confidence on the water. This course is limited to 9 participants
Basic Canoeing – Level 2Dates:
- July 4, 2026
- July 18, 2026
- July 25, 2026
- August 1, 2026
- August 16, 2026
Certification: ORCKA Basic Canoeing Level 2
Level 2 builds on the fundamentals with more advanced strokes, manoeuvres, and safety skills. Ideal for paddlers who have completed Level 1 or have equivalent experience. This course is limited to 9 participants
Optional:
- If enough participants are interested, Level 3 may be offered instead.
- A Level 4 Solo Canoeing course is also available upon request. This course is limited to 5 participants
Flatwater Kayaking Course
Flatwater Kayaking – Level 1Dates: July 11–12, 2026
Cost: $200
(Regular cost is $285 + kayak rental — CTSA members receive significant savings.)
Maximum Participants:
Future Pathway:
Participants can continue to Coastal Kayaking, which adds navigation, advanced paddling, and re‑entry skills for Great Lakes and Georgian Bay trips.
Optional:
Cost: $200
(Regular cost is $285 + kayak rental — CTSA members receive significant savings.)
Maximum Participants:
- 5 people (6 if someone brings their own kayak)
- Provided for all participants, unless you prefer to bring your own
- Kayaks must be fitted with spray skirts, as rolls will be part of the course
- Recreational Kayaks (Sit on top) are not suitable for this course
- Kayaks must be a minimum of 14 feet up to 18 feet.
Future Pathway:
Participants can continue to Coastal Kayaking, which adds navigation, advanced paddling, and re‑entry skills for Great Lakes and Georgian Bay trips.
Optional:
- Camping may be arranged for Friday and Saturday night if there is interest.
Future Opportunities:
If enough paddlers are interested, a backcountry canoe or kayak trip may be organized for 2027.