Sea Kayaking Skills Course
Learn to Sea Kayak Northern Ireland
Take your sea kayaking to the next level with our comprehensive Sea Kayaking Skills Course at Strangford Lough Activity Centre. Whether you’re a keen beginner looking to build confidence or an experienced paddler aiming to refine your technique, this course is designed to equip you with the skills, knowledge, and confidence needed to enjoy the water safely and responsibly.  Our Sea kayak lessons are the perfect way to improve your skill level, meet like minded people and explore the wonderful scenery of Strangford Lough. Furthermore, build your confidence to go kayaking with your friends. Try our top quality range of boats and equipment on our sea kayaking lessons.
Strangford Lough
Learn to Sea Kayak in an area of outstanding natural beauty. For Paddle sports, Strangford Lough is the ideal place to paddle and explore. With its rolling drumlin islands, there are many places to visit including lightships, monastic sites and castles. With over 2000 species of wildlife there are few places more beautiful to paddle. In addition, the shelter of the Ards peninsula makes it a great place to learn. As the largest sea inlet in the British Isles at over 80 square kilometres, it provides many features that we can use to challenge  and improve your skills set as you improve. For Instance, tidal races, standing waves and navigational marks and features.
We regularly run a beginners sea kayaking skills course (4 x 2hr Sessions). However, times may vary depending on time of year and daylight hours. The next course will be run over 4 Tuesday evenings in May (2hrs per week x 4 weeks) .
The course focuses on paddle strokes, technique, rescues, safety considerations, trips and theory (navigation, equipment & tides) etc. Once you have completed a sea kayaking skills course, we also offer Kayak Hire if you want to paddle without the hassle and expense of owning your own boat.
Online Booking now available. However, if the times don’t suit, contact us and we can add you to a list for further courses.
Equipment
Strangford Lough Activity Centre uses high-quality, industry-leading equipment to ensure comfort, stability, and performance on the water. We have a range of different boats for you to try out including Dagger, Perception and SKUK. With Alloy, glass fibre and carbon paddles to test, there is equipment for all sizes and abilities. Our Equipment is ideal for beginners and group sessions as well as progressive skills courses. We have a range of wetsuits and buoyancy aids to suit all shapes and sizes. All boats, paddles, and safety equipment are regularly checked and maintained.
What You’ll Learn
Our expert instructors focus on practical, hands-on training tailored to your level. Topics include:
- Paddling Techniques: Improve your strokes, technique steering, and efficiency on open water.
- Self-Rescue Skills: Learn essential safety techniques, including wet exits, T-rescues, and re-entry methods.
- Navigation & Planning: Understand tides, currents, and how to plan your trips safely.
- Weather & Sea Conditions: Gain confidence reading conditions and adjusting your plans accordingly.
- Environmental Awareness: Discover the rich wildlife and ecology of Strangford Lough while paddling responsibly.
We Provide
- Wetsuits
- Buoyancy Aids
- Spray Deck
- Boat & Paddle
You Bring
- Water Shoes
- Towel
- Sun protection
- Hat
- Swim Wear
Why Choose Us?
At Strangford Lough Activity Centre, your safety, learning, and enjoyment are our top priorities. Our instructors are highly experienced and passionate about the outdoors. With stunning scenery, sheltered waters, and expert guidance, this course offers an unforgettable experience for anyone looking to take their sea kayaking to the next level.
Book Your Course Today
Spaces are limited, so book early to secure your spot. Whether you’re aiming to gain confidence, refine your skills, or simply enjoy a day on the water, our Skills Course is the perfect adventure.
