Brittany Level 2: Master the Tides
Dates
Duration
Price
Ratio
Coach
Course dates
- October 18, 2026 - October 25, 2026
Course description
For many paddlers in Switzerland the idea of planning trips in tidal water is daunting and seen as only possible with an experienced guide. We want to dispel this myth and show you that tidal water adds a fascinating element to our paddling and it’s something you can absolutely do on your own. By the end of this week you will feel confident to know where you can paddle and what to expect when you get out on the water.
Under the careful watch of Dave Storey, our Performance Sea Kayak Coach and Guide trainer, we take time each day to revisit the theory and plan our day out on the water. We’ll show you how to take the complexity out of the planning process and apply that knowledge in a common sense way to our trip preparation.
Based on Brittany’s north coast around Ploumanac’h and Île de Bréhat, the region offers a stunning backdrop to put the theory into practice. While we’re out on the water, we put our planning to the test, learn how to recognise the tides, use them to our best advantage and become aware of the moving world around us.
What at first can feel overwhelming, will soon become a source of fascination and only add to the whole experience of being out at sea. Once we’re finished you’ll be desperate to get back out there and start paddling amongst the tides on your own to further experience this amazing power of nature.
Prerequisites
For our Level 2 courses you should have some experience on the Sea and be comfortable paddling in and against wind and waves. Your forward paddling and edging skills should be well established on the lake, and you should be able to paddle 20-30km a day. As preparation you could join one of our fine-tuning courses, which are aimed at all levels to polish your skills before getting back out on the Sea.
In order to get the most out of the course we also recommend visiting a tidal planning course. At Hightide we offer two theory courses, one based on the navigation, wind and surf and the other on tidal planning and nautical charts. This will give you a some insight into the theory that’ll we’ll be putting into practice each day.
If you’re in doubt don’t hesitate to get in touch and Dave can come back to you to discuss your needs or questions.
Weekly Plan
Day 1: Arrival 19.00
Day 2: Course day 1.
Day 3: Course day 2.
Day 4: Course day 3.
Day 5: Flexible rest day / bad weather day
Day 6: Course day 4.
Day 7: Course day 5.
Day 8: Departure 07.00
Accommodation
Accommodation is not included in the course fee. We normally run this course from two locations. Half of the week is based at a campsite also with bungalow accommodation and the second half we often book a large house for the group. We finalise accommodation normally three months in advance of the trip.
Location
Whilst in the Île de Bréhat area, we are based at Camping de Rohou just near the ferry to Bréhat. When we move location we are normally based in a house near Ploumanac’h harbour.
Getting There
Please help reduce our environmental footprint by using public transport. There are good railway connections to Morlaix and Guingamp via Paris taking under 8 hours from Basel. We can also help with equipment and boat transport.
We encourage car sharing where possible. Driving to the region takes between 10 and 12 hours from Interlaken.
What to bring with you
Personal Paddling equipment and boat if wanted. We can also supply anything you need.
Good quality map case
Compass
Maps: Paimpol IGN 0814OT & Lannion / Perros-Guirec IGN 0714OT (These can be purchased online or sourced locally)
We can supply tidal stream atlases and local guidebooks for use on the course.
Meeting Point
The exact meeting point will be confirmed once accommodation has been decided.
Price
CHF 1190
Including 5 days of Coaching, one rest day, all necessary equipment where required, BC Advanced Sea and Performance Coach and transport during the course locally.
Excluding accommodation, transport to and from Brittany, and food and drinks.
Directions to Ploumanac’h
Meet The Team
Jolien Gekiere
Become a part of the Hightide Outdoor & Paddle Community
We want to share our love of the outdoors and paddling with as many people as possible. We look forward to more paddling and outdoor events together. You want to be part of it? Then make sure you get your regular online outdoor and kayak inspiration and sign up for our newsletter! We would be happy if you become a part of our community.
Coaching Philosophy
At Hightide, we believe in coaching the individual. Our courses start from where you are and guide you toward your personal paddling goals.
For some, this means building confidence to paddle and enjoy nature. For others, it’s about improving efficiency for expeditions or long-distance paddling. It could also involve developing the skills to venture onto the sea or mastering techniques for rivers, rock gardens, and surf.
Whatever your aim, our extensive experience on the ocean and deep understanding of sea kayaking will help you move forward. All our coaches come from a sea kayaking background, hold professional qualifications, and are passionate not just about paddling but also about coaching. We’ve spent years refining what truly makes a difference in the sport and are committed to delivering it in the most effective way—by making you feel the learning.
When you join a Hightide course, you’ll leave with a clear understanding of how to keep improving and a structured way to retain what you've learned. We see our role as creating the right conditions for learning, so your progress continues long after the course ends.