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Sea Kayak on the River

From River to Tide Race: The Ultimate Coast Prep

As a sea kayaker in landlocked Switzerland, the Sea can feel a long way away and it’s often difficult to get enough challenging conditions to develop apart from waiting for that Föhn storm to arrive.

What we overlook of course, is that we have some of the most beautiful river journeys and some of the best white water in Europe. Although they might seem intimidating and a scene for crazy guys in small boats falling off waterfalls, the rivers of Switzerland offer fantastic scenery, plenty of challenge and lots of fun for us sea kayakers too.

On the sea, there are places where it flows like a river due to the movement of the tide past a headland. These “tide races” are lots of fun with waves to surf and flow to play in. So come and prepare yourself with us and see the “tide races” in our own backyard in order to be ready for your adventures on the Sea and become more fluid and dynamic in your boat.

Our Courses on the River

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Tide Race & River Preparation

  • On request
  • 9:15am - 4.15pm
  • CHF 260
  • Ratio 1:4

The best introduction to sea kayaking starts on the lake. There you will learn the basics that you will need on both the river and the sea. When the thought of currents tingles your fingers, you can venture onto the rivers.

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Tide Race & River Skills

  • 22. May / 19. June / 31. July
  • 6:00pm - 9:00pm
  • CHF 160
  • Ratio 1:4

This course is your bridge to mastering long boats in moving water, where you’ll learn to navigate legendary eddies with an elegant, "less is more" style. Under expert guidance, you’ll refine your river reading and technical flair, turning the river’s energy into your greatest advantage.

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Tide Race & River Rescue

  • 21. August 2026
  • 6:00pm - 9:00pm (3 hours)
  • 160 CHF
  • Ratio 1:4

In this intensive workshop at Worblaufen, we bridge the gap between basic rescues and real-world dynamics. By simulating the high-pressure conditions of tide races and river currents, you’ll sharpen your speed and precision in managing gear, boats, and teammates against the flow. Elevate your safety skills, build rock-solid confidence, and become a truly self-sufficient paddler in any environment.

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The Aare: Thun to Bern

  • On request
  • 9:15am - 4:15pm
  • CHF 260
  • Ratio 1:4

The Aare is the longest river in Switzerland and starts its journey high up above the Grimselpass. The trip from Thun to Bern is really the crowning jewel of sea kayak paddling in the Jungfrau Region.

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The Aare: Thun to Lake Biel

  • On request
  • 2 days
  • CHF 495
  • Ratio 1:4

One thing is for sure, it will be challenging and full of white water, and you will experience a bit of everything… from wild nature to a lively city feeling on the trip through Bern to picturesque stretches through dreamy forests.

Meet our Coaching Team

Dave Storey Staff Seekajak 1400x800 1

Dave Storey

Managing Director Operations |
Head Coach
Jolien Gekiere Staff Seekajak 1400x800 1

Jolien Gekiere

Guide & Coach |
Advanced Sea Kayak Leader |
J&S Touring & Whitewater Leader

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.

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