New England REI Outdoor School

Kayaking: Level 1 (Outing)

New to kayaking? Join us for on-the-water instruction. Lessons cover proper gear selection and fit, boat control, basic safety skills and correct paddling techniques, with the intent of progressing toward kayaking on your own. Then we’ll head out on the water to practice these new skills. Kayak, paddle and PFD (personal flotation device) are provided. Recommended for those 14 and older; under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or responsible adult.

* Advance trip sign-up is required. Call or visit any New England area REI to sign up.

  • Time:

    Saturday outings - Meet at 9:00 am

    Sunday outings - 10:00 am

    Outings last approximately 4-6 hours.

  • Cost: Member: $95, Non-Member: $115

Where To Meet:

Meet at the location or REI store listed below. Directions to locations other than REI stores can be found by clicking on the link below.

Get directions to all non-store venues here.

  • June 6th Framingham REI
  • June 14th Hingham REI
  • June 27th Cranston REI
  • June 28th Reading REI
  • July 11th Framingham REI
  • July 19th Hingham REI
  • July 25th Cranston REI
  • August 1st Reading REI
  • August 9th Hingham REI
  • August 15th Cranston REI
  • August 29th Framingham REI
  • September 12th Framingham REI

WHAT TO BRING:

  • Come dressed to get wet, in swim suits or other appropriate clothing.
  • Try to avoid cotton pants, shirts etc. as they can get very cold when wet, even on warm days!
  • Wicking underwear (like REI MTS®) is best for colder water, with a paddling jacket or light windbreaker over that.
  • Paddling booties or thin-soled, flexible tennis shoes (that can get wet) should be worn for paddling. Sandals are also accepted, however Velcro style sandals are not recommended for this trip because the straps can come undone when wet.
  • A water bottle, such as a bicycle style or Nalgene, filled with drinking water, juice, etc.
  • Sunscreen and sunglasses with retainers. Sun hats are recommended.
  • Lunch and snacks.
  • Dry bags are not guaranteed to keep all equipment safe. Avoid bringing electronic equipment if possible.

REI OUTDOOR SCHOOL PROVIDES:

  • All instruction and boating equipment including boats, paddles, life vests and paddle jackets, and dry bags, if necessary.
  • Van transportation from the store to the put-in and back
  • Park entrance fees for riders in the REI Outdoor School van

REI Outdoor School Cancellation Policy

To be courteous to all customers, we request you notify REI Outdoor School at least 48 hours prior to the trip if you intend to cancel; late cancellations will not be refunded. Class or Outing cancellations on the part of REI Outdoor School will be refunded in full, regardless of timeframe. Inclement weather does not necessarily cancel an event; REI Outdoor School will contact you in the event of a cancellation.

100% Satisfaction Guarantee

REI Outdoor School strives to provide the best outdoor education programs possible. Our 100% satisfaction guarantee ensures that our classes and outings at REI Outdoor School meet your high standards - or we will gladly offer your choice of a refund or a chance to re-take the class/outing.

Waitlists

In order to keep our instruction personable, space on our classes and outings is limited. If you are interested in an activity that has filled, we would be happy to place you on a waitlist for that event. If space opens, we will contact the list in the order you signed up, but we are unable to hold that spot if we're unable to speak with you directly. Providing us with your best contact information increases your chances of joining us.

Availability

Classes and outings are subject to change due to circumstances beyond our control. Should a program be cancelled or a rescheduled, all registered participants will be notified.

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