Aim
Level-4 provides the skills and knowledge for sea kayaking tripping during multi-day trips along an open coast with rough conditions. This course includes a leadership component.

Prerequisites

• All participants must have Paddle Canada Level-3 certification. Vigorous sea conditions along exposed shores with infrequent landing opportunities present significant challenges for individual safety and group management.
• Wilderness First Aid Certification (36 hours) with CPR is strongly recommended.
• Restricted Radio Operators License (marine VHF) is strongly recommended.
• Considerable paddling experience and an ability to roll is essential.

Course length
5 days (includes camping overnight).

Class ratio
1 instructor: 4 paddlers (with a minimum of two instructors).

Note: Level-4 Skills can be run with one Level-4 Instructor and one Level-3 Instructor assisting. The max class size for this case is 6.

Location
Open coast with infrequent and sometimes difficult landing options.

Conditions
Strong winds (near 20 knots). Combined sea state 1-metre or better with a moderate to rough sea state. Surf >=1 metre. Current >= 3 knots.

Courses will be cancelled or postponed when conditions do not provide the necessary environment.

Assessment
Participants must demonstrate a high level of ability controlling their kayak in all circumstances. Leadership in trip planning and in rescues must demonstrate the ability to adapt. A written test will include knowledge of navigation, weather and general seamanship. Written or oral navigation and trip planning exercises may also form part of the assessment.

Overview

Rescue Skills

• Judgment
• Decision making
• Complex scenarios

Paddling skills

• Performance
• Vary technique to cope
• with situations.
• Towing

Knowledge

• Safety
• Planning
• Rescue
• Leadership