General Aims

The Sea Kayak Level 3 Explorer Award aims to enable participants to:

  • Join a group of peers on a day-long trip.
  • Plan a trip incorporating weather, navigation and tidal information.
  • Assist a suitably qualified sea kayaker in group management and rescues.
  • Have the skills to safely manage my kayak on coastal trips in L3 conditions.
  • Launch and land in small surf.
  • Self rescue unassisted from a capsize in deep water.
  • Understand the effects on the sea kayak of wind, wave, tide, and coastal features.
  • Summon outside rescue assistance.
  • Understand the paddlers effect on the environment and wildlife.
  • Can identify the next step involved in the Canoeing Ireland Sea Kayak Skills Awards.

Attendance Requirements

Requirements for attending a Level 3 Sea Kayak Skills assessment:

  • Be a current member of Canoeing Ireland

  • Training Course

    :

    Sea Kayak Level 2 Peer Award Certificate (mandatory requirement or Approved Prior Learning).

  • Obtain a Canoeing Ireland Sea Kayak L3 Explorer Award Paddler Profile from the Canoeing Ireland website at canoe.ie or their instructor.
  • Be at least 12 years of age
  • The paddler is required to be able to demonstrate all knowledge and skills from lower levels, and at a higher standard than that required for the preceding level.
  • For paddlers U-18 it is recommended that these paddlers be supervised by a person over the age of 18 who has suitable experience.

    Course Documents