Women on the Water
Duration
Price
Level
Equipment
Course dates
- June 13, 2026
Find Your Flow. Discover what’s possible on the water.
The first-ever Ladies’ Paddle Event at Hightide.
Kayaking is about so much more than just paddle strokes. It’s that unique feeling when the blade enters the water silently, the world on the shore stands still, and you become one with the movement. It’s about the connection to the elements and—most importantly—to yourself.
This weekend is a premiere: our very first all-women’s paddle event and a proud part of our new Community Event Series.
By women, for women: Grow together.
We believe that women often learn differently. We thrive in an atmosphere that pushes us without the stress—a space where we can let go in order to grow beyond our limits. Inspired by Jolien’s own journey, we’ve created this event to hit "pause" on the "higher, faster, further" mindset. Here, what matters are authentic #myhightidemoments and true women’s empowerment.
Let’s Grow Together
We want to shape this event together with you and establish it as a permanent part of our community. We have prepared an exciting program for you, yet we remain flexible: depending on registrations and the group dynamics, we will fine-tune the details on-site to ensure the perfect "flow" for every participant—from absolute beginners to seasoned pros. Your experience is our top priority, and we are so excited to start this journey with you!We are so excited to start this journey with you!
- First Steps: Your relaxed introduction. Learn the basics in a safe, supportive group.
- Skills & Safety: Become one with the element. Playful rescue training and your first experiences in the river current.
- Try it All: Find your perfect match! Test different crafts like SUP, surfskis, or agile kayaks.
- Soul & Nature: Ground yourself with Yoga, find peace in nature.
- Community: The heart of the weekend. Our Saturday night BBQ at the base—a time for stories, laughter, and real connection.
🕒 Morning Sessions: Choose Your Flow
09:30 – 12:30 We split into two groups to ensure everyone gets the most out of their time on the water.
Session | Host | Best For... | What to Expect |
|---|---|---|---|
Intro to Kayaking on a tour | Pat | Beginners & Explorers | Learn the basics of paddle technique and enjoy a scenic guided tour along the stunning shoreline. |
Advanced Technique Workshop | Jolien | Active Paddlers | Focus on edge control, efficient power transfer, and precision maneuvering. Perfect for those looking to level up. |
Session
Intro to Kayaking on a tour
Host
Pat
Best For...
Beginners & Explorers
What to Expect
Learn the basics of paddle technique and enjoy a scenic guided tour along the stunning shoreline.
Session
Advanced Technique Workshop
Host
Jolien
Best For...
Active Paddlers
What to Expect
Focus on edge control, efficient power transfer, and precision maneuvering. Perfect for those looking to level up.
🥗 Community Lunch
12:30 – 13:15 Time to refuel! We’ll gather on the shore to share a meal, swap stories from the morning, and enjoy the view.
🛶 Afternoon: The "All Together" Splash
13:30 – 16:30 The whole group joins forces for a rotation of skills and games.
- Rescue Refresher: A supportive environment to practice self-rescues and T-rescues. Even for advanced paddlers, it’s great to keep that muscle memory sharp!
- The "Craft Swap": Ever wanted to try a SUP, a surfski, or a different boat? Now is the time to trade and test.
- The Grand Finale – Boat Polo: We’ll finish the water session with a fun, high-energy game of polo in small boats. Expect laughter (and probably getting wet).
🧘 Evening Wind-down
16:30 – open End
- Sunset Yoga: A gentle session at the lake specifically designed to stretch out the shoulders, back, and hips after a day of paddling.
- Lakeside BBQ: We fire up the grill! We’ll provide the fire and basic sides—bring your favorite items to grill and your favorite beverage.
Before you book
This event is designed by women, for women. Whether you are holding a paddle for the very first time or you’ve been navigating Lake Brienz for years, this day is for you.
- The Aspiring Paddler: If you’ve always wanted to try kayaking but didn't know where to start, you’ll find a safe, welcoming space to learn the basics without any pressure.
- The Active Paddler: If you already love the sport but want to "level up," our advanced workshop helps you refine your technique and master rescues in a collaborative, ego-free setting.
Whether you are a total beginner or a seasoned pro, the only real prerequisite is a love for the water and a desire to grow your skills.
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
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%.
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.