Sea Kayak Solid Foundations
Dates
Duration
Price
Ratio
Coach
Course dates
- May 9, 2026 - May 10, 2026
- May 23, 2026 - May 24, 2026
- June 6, 2026 - June 7, 2026
- June 20, 2026 - June 21, 2026
- July 4, 2026 - July 5, 2026
- July 18, 2026 - July 19, 2026
- August 1, 2026 - August 2, 2026
- August 22, 2026 - August 23, 2026
- September 5, 2026 - September 6, 2026
Solid Foundations: Your Two-Day Entry into Independent Paddling
Ready to launch your paddling journey? Our Solid Foundations course is designed to build your confidence from the waterline up. Based at our school in Bönigen, you’ll learn on the stunning turquoise waters of Lake Brienz—the ultimate sheltered classroom for mastering essential sea kayaking techniques.
Whether you’re a total beginner or a casual paddler looking to fix those "bad habits," this course is your perfect starting point. Over two immersive days, we bridge the gap between basic mechanics and independent safety skills.
We don’t just teach strokes; we develop your "water-sense." Our goal is to transform you into a self-sufficient paddler, equipped with the technical skill and the confidence to explore under your own steam with a clear roadmap for your future adventures.
Course Goal
We don't just teach you how to move a boat; we give you the tools for independence. After this course, you will:
- Master the Fundamentals: Own a clean, efficient technical foundation.
- Be Rescue-Ready: Have the skills and composure to manage capsizes safely.
- Explore with Confidence: Gain the knowledge to plan and enjoy solo or group sessions on sheltered waters.
- Keep Growing: Leave with a customized development plan to guide your future adventures.
Course Facts
- Stunning Location: Train in the beautiful setting of Bönigen on Lake Brienz.
- Progressive Learning: Two full days of coaching to ensure techniques are understood and retained.
- Technique Focused: From efficient forward paddling to technical turning strokes.
- Safety & Independence: Learn to manage yourself and assist others in deep-water scenarios.
Course Specifics
Two Days to Independence
Day 1: Mastering Movement
The first day is all about precision and efficiency. We focus on perfecting your stroke work to ensure you feel at one with your kayak and the water:
- Efficient Forward Paddling: We build your "engine," teaching you how to use your whole body to travel further with less effort.
- Boat Control & Stability: Master the art of balance and learn various methods for entering and exiting your kayak safely and confidently.
- Manoeuvrability: We introduce "edging" and technical turning strokes, giving you the skills to navigate tight spaces and open water with absolute precision.
Day 2: Safety, Planning & Problem Solving
On the second day, we shift our focus toward becoming a responsible and self-sufficient paddler. We give you the tools to handle the unexpected:
- Incident Management: Build the confidence to handle a capsize calmly. You will master the "wet exit" and learn the essential techniques to get yourself back into the boat (self-rescue).
- Assisted Rescues: Learn the teamwork behind safety. We’ll show you how to help others back into their kayaks quickly and efficiently using industry-standard rescue methods.
- Journey Planning: An introduction to "water-sense" on the lake. You’ll learn how to interpret the weather, understand lake conditions, and plan a safe, enjoyable route for your future adventures.
Before you book
This course is open to anyone with an interest in sea kayaking. No prior experience is necessary! It is ideal for those who want to move beyond "just paddling" and truly understand the mechanics and safety protocols of the sport.
Open for all with an interest in learning about Sea Kayaking. All necessary equipment is included.
Moderate
This course is stationary by design. Distances are shorter, and time on the water is focused on exercises and developing technique. It involves sessions of 2–3 hours at a time in sheltered conditions.
- Sea Kayak
- Spray Deck
- Paddle
- Buoyancy Aid
- Drysuit or neoprene depending on the weather
- Water shoes
- Towline, paddle float, pump
- Lockers and changing rooms
- Own kayak equipment (if possible)
- Swimwear and personal kayak clothing
- Medication
- Sun protection
Minimum age 15
3. Cancellation by the customer
The withdrawal must be in writing and cancellation fees will be calculated as follows: NB. The Percentage refers to the cancellation fee from the total course or tour fee. For all our activities we recommend purchasing cancellation insurance at the time of booking.
3.2 Courses and Coaching in Switzerland
- More than 7 days before the start of the activity: CHF 50 administration fee.
- 7 days -24hours before the start of the activity 50%.
- 24 hours before the start of the activity/no shows 100%.
Directions to Bönigen
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.