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East Coast Paddlesports Symposium
March 27-29, 2020 in Charleston, SC
The 30th annual East Coast Paddlesports Symposium is a three-day immersion in the history, technique, hands-on experience, and fun of kayaking. Paddling enthusiasts will not be disappointed. We have taken the best parts of this event and modified the format to offer a more diverse and student-centered experience in the No. 1 city in the U.S. according to Travel + Leisure.
How Does It Work?
After being matched with 5-8 paddlers of similar skill and interest, you will be assigned to a group leader/local instructor who can provide area knowledge, logistical details, and continuity throughout your time with us. Each day you will get a chance to work with a different seasoned coach.
2019 Photo Gallery
View the photo gallery. Thank you to Chris Hipgrave and Don White for capturing the weekend!
Sounds Good to Me! Where Do I Begin?
Choose from among the skill levels below, and then head on over to registration.
You identify as a fair-weather paddler and are looking to increase enjoyment and efficiency on the water.
Your Environmental Comfort Zone
- Winds 10 knots or less
- Waves less than 1 foot
- Traveling 1-8 miles
Topics We'll Cover
- Forward Paddling
- Turning Strokes
- Lateral Strokes
- Support Strokes
- Intro to Rolling
- Assisted & Self-Rescues
- Navigation Basics
Possible Teaching Venues
- James Island County Park Lake
- Folly River
- Stono River
- Charleston Harbor
Stroke Refinement and Rolling & Navigation clinics will be available to sign up for on site if you wish to take a break from the action. If you are traveling with a paddling partner, let us know, and we will group you together if you would like.
Refinement of fundamental paddling techniques with real-world application is your goal as we move on to paddle in more challenging conditions.
Your Environmental Comfort Zone
- Winds 10-15 knots
- Waves 1-2 foot
- Swells 2-3 feet
- Traveling 8-12 miles
Topics We'll Cover
- Paddling in Tidal Currents
- Stroke Refinement
- Rolling Refinement
- Refining Rescues & Recoveries (Self & Assisted )
- Towing
- Intro to Surf Launches & Landings
- Trip Planning & Chart Navigation
Possible Teaching Venues
- Charleston Harbor
- Folly River
- Front beach of Folly Island
Stroke Refinement and Rolling & Navigation clinics will be available to sign up for on site if you wish to take a break from the action. If you are traveling with a paddling partner, let us know, and we will group you together if you would like.
You should have a variety of experience in the cockpit and an ability to perform in unfavorable weather conditions.
Your Environmental Comfort Zone
- Winds 15-20 knots
- Waves 2-3 feet
- Swells 3-4 feet
- Traveling 12-18+ miles
Topics We'll Cover
- Leadership
- Rolling in Conditions
- Strokes in Conditions
- Surf Launching & Landing for Fun
- Paddling Around Obstacles
- Advanced Navigation
- VHF
- Incident & Risk Management/Avoidance
Possible Teaching Venues
- Charleston Harbor Entrance
- Morris Island
- Front beach Folly Island
- Lighthouse Inlet
Stroke Refinement and Rolling & Navigation clinics will be available to sign up for on site if you wish to take a break from the action. If you are traveling with a paddling partner, let us know, and we will group you together if you would like.