What To Expect

What’s included?

The class price includes personalized instruction and all paddling equipment, including kayaks, paddles, life jackets, and spray skirts.

What should I wear? What should I bring?

You’ll want to wear clothes and shoes that can get wet. Water shoes or a Chaco/Teva style sandal are great. Try to choose synthetic or wool clothing as opposed to cotton, since this will do a better job of keeping you warm even when it’s wet. Wandering Waves will provide a wetsuit to every student, but if you have your own wetsuit or drysuit feel free to bring it - we’re always more comfortable in our own gear!

Other things to bring along - a water bottle (filled with water), small snacks like granola bars, sunglasses with straps to keep them from falling off into the water, sunscreen.

I thought this was a “sea kayak” class. Why are we at a lake?

While many students have the ultimate goal of paddling on saltwater and taking trips in the San Juan Islands, it’s very important to practice fundamental skills first. Lake Padden is a consistently calm, more predictable learning environment that provides better opportunity for students to practice the fundamentals without worrying about wind and waves. Once you’ve taken the “Intro” class, the “Coastal Kayak” trip will get you into the saltwater and on the way to planning coastal trips of your own.

Should I bring my camera/phone?

Ultimately it is up to you, but it’s not recommended. Kayaking is a water sport, and many a phone or camera has ended up resting on the sea floor. Your instructor will carry a phone for emergency communication, and is happy to take photos during the class and send them to you once you’re back on land.

Is there a bathroom?

Yes. Every location that we teach classes from has a toilet. Some are flushing and some are pit toilets.

Is lunch provided?

Lunch is not provided. Students should bring what they need to stay fed and happy for the duration of the course. Your instructor will have extra water, but start off by bringing a full water bottle.

What if the weather isn’t great?

Classes will still run in rainy weather. Kayaking is a water sport, and paddling in the rain can be a fun experience. We’ll take extra care to make sure that everyone stays warm, and if the forecast is wet, bringing a rain jacket is recommended.

In the case of wind, waves, or lightning that make the course unsafe to run, the class will be canceled at instructor discretion with as much notice as possible, and students will be offered a full refund or opportunity to book another date. See Policies for more information.

What if I can’t swim?

Not a problem! All students will wear Personal Flotation Devices (PFDs), commonly called “Life Jackets,” that keep you afloat in case you end up out of your kayak and in the water.

What if I’m a little nervous?

It’s okay to be nervous! You’re trying something new and it might be a little scary to expand your comfort zone. Your instructor loves teaching beginners, and small class sizes help ensure that everyone gets the attention they need. Safety is a number one priority. I make sure to constantly monitor the weather conditions during the course and won’t ask you to do anything I think is unsafe.

Is this a tour?

Nope! While we might see some wildlife and the “Full Day Coastal Kayak” does involve a journey of several miles, the primary focus is to learn paddling and trip planning skills.

If you’re looking for a guided kayak tour to learn about the wildlife and history of the area, there are several excellent companies offering this in Bellingham.

What types of kayaks do you use?

Students will be learning in “sit-inside” style sea kayaks. These are great for the conditions and environments we’ll be exploring. The exact model you’ll be in will depend on the measurements you send when you sign up for a class, since each kayak fits each person a little differently.

Do you teach classes for kids?

Not usually. At this time we only have adult-sized kayaks, paddles, and life jackets. While we don’t have a strict minimum age, participants need to be large enough to use this equipment. That said, we can be flexible and work with you if you’re interested in a custom family lesson or experience. Contact

How do I sign up for a class?

For the “Full Day Intro to Kayaking,” booking and payment is handled through the Bellingham Parks and Recreation Playbook. For all other classes, follow these instructions:

1. Click the “Book Now” button below your class of choice on the “Classes” page

2. Fill out the form completely and hit “Submit.”

3. I will reach out within 24-48 hours to answer any questions and send an invoice via Square.

4. Once the Square invoice is paid, I will reach out to confirm your space in the class and provide course information.

5. Show up to the class and have fun!