“If there is magic on this planet, it is contained in water.”
Classes
2026 Classes
Price includes instruction and use of equipment including kayaks and all paddling gear.
Most classes take place at Lake Padden Park or Larrabee State Park in Bellingham and begin at 9 am.
Full Day Intro to Kayaking
Do you want to try kayaking, but aren’t sure where to start? This class is for you!
Designed for complete beginners or those looking for a refresher, this course covers the fundamentals of kayaking. After a review of basic kayaking equipment and safety, the morning is spent learning essential strokes and maneuvers necessary to move your kayak. Following a break for lunch (not included), we will spend the afternoon going over what to do if your kayak capsizes and practicing self and assisted rescues. This course will prepare you to paddle in calm, near-shore environments, and is a great precursor to joining a local paddling club or taking longer trips on your own.
Wetsuits provided. No experience necessary. This course aligns with ACA L2.
7-8hours | $195 per person, plus tax. | Lake Padden Park
2026 Dates: May 23, May 30, June 6, June 13, July 11, August 8.
Classes are offered in partnership with Bellingham Parks and Recreation and will be booked through the Playbook. Registration begins April 1st.
Full Day Coastal Journey
You’ve taken the “Intro” class, and you’re ready for more. The goal of this class is to take a journey, practicing and refining skills along the way. We’ll go over all of the considerations needed to plan a successful trip, including tides, currents, navigation, and weather. Students will learn to use their lower body to edge, brace, and move the kayak more efficiently. We’ll also go over how to work with, rather than against, the wind and waves. Other topics include towing and more “technical” rescues. Plan to spend lots of time on and in the water. We will take breaks throughout the day. Bring a lunch.
Wetsuits provided. This course aligns with ACA L3.
Prerequisite: “Full Day Intro to Kayaking” or similar, such ass the Community Boating Center’s “Essentials of Sea Kayaking” + “Rescues & Recoveries.”
7-8 hours | $195 per person, plus tax | Larrabee State Park
Dates scheduled based on student interest.
Kayak Rescues
What do you do if your kayak flips over? This class will give you the skills and confidence to rescue yourself and others in case of a capsize.
After a short warm up activity, we’ll learn how to help each other back into our kayaks using different techniques. Once students feel comfortable with assisted rescues, we will practice self-rescues. We will take breaks as needed, but plan to spend a couple of hours in the water.
Wetsuits provided.
Prerequisite: Some kayaking experience or training
4 hours | $125 per person, plus tax
Dates scheduled based on student interest.
ACA Skills Assessment
The American Canoe Association allows a paddler to assess their kayaking skills according to a nationally recognized standard. These assessments are useful for anyone who needs to “prove” their kayaking experience, whether it’s for a job, kayak rental, or trip in an unfamiliar location. Skills assessment is also a prerequisite to becoming an ACA Instructor. Wandering Waves offers the following skills assessments:
L2: Essentials of Kayak Touring
Please review course description and student expectations prior to enrolling. You don’t have to be an “expert” in every skills listed, but you should be comfortable with most of them. Reach out if you’re not sure if this class is right for you. Completion of the course does not guarantee certification/assessment.
8 hours | $150 per person | Must be active ACA member
Dates scheduled based on student interest
Private Instruction
Sometimes you want focused, one on one instruction without the distraction of other students. Do you need a one-time lesson to get comfortable on the water? Maybe a custom-created coaching program to help you reach your bigger paddling goals? Whatever your needs, private instruction allows for a great deal of flexibility during our time on the water.
2 hour minimum | $90 per hour for 1 person, add $50/hour for each additional person
Typically available on Mondays or in the evening during the week. Contact to schedule.
