Full IDW/ICE: Sept 22 - Sept 25th;
IDW: Sept. 22 - Sept. 23;
IDE: Sept. 24 - Sept. 25
Become a Confident and Capable ACA Instructor
Sea Trek’s ACA Level 2: Essentials of Kayak Touring Instructor Development Workshop (IDW) and Instructor Certification Exam (ICE) is your pathway into professional paddlesports instruction. This course equips you with the skills, knowledge, and leadership experience to effectively teach beginner kayakers in calm, sheltered waters. Whether you’re a passionate paddler or an aspiring coach, the L2 certification is the launchpad for your instructor journey.
This course takes place in sheltered coastal environments, with conditions not exceeding Level 2 parameters:
- Winds under 10 knots
- Waves under 1 foot
- Close-to-shore paddling (within 0.5 NM)
- Low current and minimal surf
This course will be led by Laura Zulliger, ACA L4 Open Water Instructor Trainer. Please read the full ACA L2 Essentials of Kayak Touring Instructor Criteria prior to registering.
This course is ideal for:
- Recreational kayakers with solid foundational skills
- Outdoor educators and guides looking to formalize their teaching
- Those interested in progressing through the ACA instructor pathway
Not sure if you’re ready? You should be confident in demonstrating Level 2 paddling skills, including rescues and towing. Candidates are expected to exceed Level 2 skills standards before entering the course.
What to Expect
Over four immersive days, you’ll participate in both instructional development and formal evaluation. You’ll build and hone skills in:
- Planning and delivering engaging, student-centered lessons
- Teaching strokes, maneuvers, rescues, and towing in sheltered water
- Risk management and group leadership
- Trip planning, navigation, and environmental awareness
- Assessing paddler performance and providing effective feedback
This combined IDW/ICE format includes both training and assessment. Successful candidates will leave certified to teach ACA Level 1 and Level 2 kayak touring courses.
What You’ll Leave With
- ACA Level 2 Instructor Certification (for successful ICE candidates)
- A strong foundation in instructional leadership
- Practical teaching experience
- The ability to plan and deliver safe, effective, and fun kayaking courses
PREREQUISITES
- ACA membership (join at americancanoe.org)
- Successful completion of an ACA L2 Skills Assessment (or equivalent proficiency)
- Current First Aid and CPR certification
- Age 18+
- Familiarity with ACA’s Code of Conduct and DEI initiatives
LOCATION
Bay Model, 2100 Bridgeway, Sausalito, CA 94965
Follow Bay Model signs, and park in Bay Model lot.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
If you are booking both the IDW and ICE please select “IDW and ICE”. The price reflects a two course discount for your IDW. After booking the IDW you’ll come to the Invoice summary page. Leave the IDW course in your shopping cart and before paying click on “keep shopping.” Next you’ll sign up for the ICE course, and once again choose IDW and ICE. The price reflects a two course discount for your ICE. With both the IDW and the ICE in your shopping cart you are ready to pay.
JOIN THE ADVENTURE
If you need assistance booking this reservation or have any questions, please email laura@seatrek.com.
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