The ACA Level 2: Essentials of Kayak Touring certification qualifies you to teach introductory kayak skills in a variety of paddle craft (sea kayaks, sit on tops, recreational kayaks) in a protected and calm water environment. This certification program is a great opportunity for club paddlers, livery instructors, and camp waterfront staff to add kayaking to their camp programs. This certification is appropriate for instructors who limit their teaching to inland lakes.

This program, including four in-person on-water days supported by one virtual session, is focused on training future instructors to teach the skills in the ACA L2 Essentials of Kayak Touring Instructor criteria. To get the most from the program, this program is intended for paddlers possessing  ACA L2 personal paddling skills and knowledge at a minimum.

Dates: May 30-June 2

Course venue: Urban Kayaks, Chicago, IL

Course fee: $550

Registration available through Urban Kayaks

To achieve certification as an instructor, participants must be current members of the ACA. Please secure membership prior to the start of the course. Additionally, upon successful completion of the ICW, participants will need to join the ACA’s Safety Education & Instruction Council (SEIC) for an additional fee.