Advanced Kayaking Course 1

Advanced Whitewater Kayaking Course 1 on the River Salza in Styria

Advanced Kayaking Course 1 on the Salza in Styria – Advanced white-water kayaking course

Take your paddling skills to the next level on our kayaking course for slightly advanced paddlers!

Our advanced course builds directly on the 4- or 5-day beginners’ course. If you already have some white-water experience and feel confident in a kayak, or have completed a course like this with us, this course is ideal for you. The aim is to enable you to navigate Class II white water safely and independently.

 

  • Schedule for the Advanced 1 kayaking course:

    After a welcome from your kayaking instructor, you’ll receive a brief introduction to the course programme and will then be kitted out with the appropriate equipment at the camp – you’re, of course, also welcome to use your own equipment.

    To start with, we’ll choose an easy route so that everyone can get into the swing of things at their own pace and the group can get used to working together.

    As the course progresses, the focus will be on improving your technique and specifically addressing any individual weaknesses. The aim is to gain greater confidence and a better understanding of the river, so that you can navigate simple white water (Class II) with confidence and enjoy kayaking even more.

  • Revision of basic paddling techniques (paddle strokes, support techniques)
  • River studies and fluid dynamics
  • Advanced river navigation techniques (eddies, rope ferries)
  • Introduction to advanced paddling techniques (drag stroke)
  • Assessing and avoiding hazardous sections on the river, white-water tactics
  • Safety on the river (basic rescue techniques, throwing a rescue bag)
  • Correctly edging the boat, utilising currents (e.g. ‘S’ turns)
  • Eskimo roll training on request
  • Revision and consolidation of basic techniques
  • Independent paddling on river sections up to WW2
  • Several days’ experience of white-water kayaking at difficulty levels I–II (e.g. from our 4- or 5-day beginners’ course); this experience should not be more than 1–2 years ago
  • Minimum age 12
  • Able to swim
  • Average level of physical fitness

If you’re looking for suitable accommodation: Right at the starting point of the tour is the Freelife Guesthouse, which offers cosy 2–4-bed rooms or dormitories, including breakfast.

Alternatively, the Freelife Apartments are available: two fully equipped apartments, each with two double bedrooms and a private kitchen, or two double bedrooms for a maximum of two people with a shared kitchen.

You can find our accommodation options here.

 

  • Do I need to be able to swim?
    Yes, basic swimming skills are a prerequisite for taking part.
  • How old do I need to be?
    You must be aged 12 or over to take part – see the ‘Requirements’ section.
  • What do I need to bring?
    Swimwear, a towel. If you wear glasses, a glasses strap (also available to buy on site), and a snack for the lunch break
  • Does the course still take place in bad weather or rain?
    Yes, the kayaking courses generally take place whatever the weather. In the event of extreme conditions (e.g. extreme high water, severe weather), we will contact you in advance. Should a tour have to be cancelled for safety reasons, no cancellation fees will apply.
  • What are the daily course times?
    Courses start daily at 09:30 and, depending on group size, route and conditions, last until around 15:30.
  • Is there a minimum number of participants per course?
    For a course to take place, we require at least 4 participants per session. Individuals or small groups are always welcome – we’ll group participants on-site into suitable course groups so that you can paddle alongside other guests.
  • How many participants are there per group?
    For safety courses, there is a maximum of 8 participants per kayak instructor.
  • Are there any photos from the course?
    Yes, we provide you with free photos via our photo server.
  • What happens to my valuables?
    These can be safely left at our base.
  • Are there changing rooms and showers?
    Yes, these facilities are available at our base.
  • Can I take part if I have physical limitations?
    Please make sure you discuss any health or physical limitations with us in advance so that we can cater for your individual needs.

Take the plunge.

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