The Salish Sea Kayak Symposium is a multi-day gathering of sea kayakers focused on skill development, thoughtful progression, and community building in one of the most dynamic paddling environments in the Pacific Northwest. Designed for motivated paddlers, the symposium blends coached sessions, shared learning, and real-world conditions to build confidence, competence, and community.

Each day is structured around a balance of on-water instruction, scenario-based practice, and informal discussion. Groups are kept small to allow coaches to adapt sessions to the day’s conditions and the needs of each cohort. Topics may include boat control, efficiency, rough-water skills, rescues, navigation, leadership, and decision-making — with the exact focus evolving as conditions and group goals dictate.

Evenings will include social time at Cornet Bay Retreat center, optional meals & drinks, vendors with demo tables, raffles, and presentations from selected speakers.

Skill level: There is something at this event for kayakers of all skill levels. Whether this is your first time kayaking or you consider yourself an advanced kayaker, there will be a progression track appropriate for you.

Prerequisites: Participants should be comfortable spending full days on the water and learning in real coastal conditions that may include wind, waves, and current.

Coaching is tailored to individual experience and goals, with small group sizes allowing for progression at YOUR skill level. This event is best suited for paddlers who are curious, engaged, and ready to participate actively in a shared learning environment.

Sessions are planned around real coastal conditions. Daily locations, timing, and learning focus may shift based on weather, sea state, and group needs to support safety and meaningful learning.

The best learning happens in gear that works. For that reason, we will have kayaks and safety equipment available to borrow for anyone that needs it. Resources are limited so please only make that selection if you really need it. P&H is providing a demo fleet so there is likely to be extras during the event!

If you have your own equipment, below is a list of required gear.

• Sea kayak with internal floatation and deck lines.

• Spray skirt, PFD, immersion protection appropriate to conditions

• Paddle

• Safety essentials (pump, paddle float, tow system)