Surf Ski Training - in Seattle with Rob Casey

 

Surf skis offer another way to kayak but as lightweight fast sit on tops they are great for touring, racing and surfing.

The slim shape of surf skis makes them look tippy. Like all kayaks, the touring shapes are very stable and fast racing skis are less so.

Like a sea kayak, touring skis have storage hatches and kick up rudder options. They’re easier to cartop, carry and remount vs a sea kayak.

I offer 1-1 and 2 person personalized private surf ski lessons in the Seattle area.  I provide all gear including stable skis.

Note My method of teaching is not the sprint racing stroke, rather sea kayak stroke that is still faster than any kayak!

What you’ll learn – Beginners:

  • Find out how to remount on both sides of the boat
  • Learn how to outfit your boat to fit you comfortably, which leash to use, rudders and carrying gear.
  • Learn how to paddle either with a wing or kayak paddle
  • Learn how to find your balance using on-land training as well as easy on-water techniques.
  • Find out how to use leg drive for more power
  • Learn about different paddling methods and styles for calm water and wind
  • Find about other ways to turn and control your boat using edging and traditional kayak turns
  • Get comfortable paddling with boat wakes, in wind and rough conditions using bracing
  • Explore methods of avoiding cramps and paddling healthier and longer in your ski

Intermediate Skills:

  • Refine your forward stroke
  • Find out how to edge your boat for tighter turns and more balance
  • Get tips on how to turn your boat faster using your paddle not just the rudder. Including going sideways
  • Get comfortable paddling with boat wakes, in wind and rough conditions using bracing
  • Learn how to read water so you can make smarter route decisions and paddle faster, easier
  • Learn how to surf boat and freighter waves if available.
  • What do you want to learn?

Details:

  • Private 1-1 and 2 person lessons
  • I provide all gear including stable skis
  • Schedule: On your schedule.
  • Duration: 3 hours  Location: Shilshole Bay in Seattle. Additional fees for outside of Seattle.
  • Skill Level: Beginning to Intermediate Level. Must know how to swim. 

Rates:

2 people: 349 per person

Individual Rate (1-1): 497

+Rental gear is free

  • I recommend wetsuits and booties even in Summer as the Sound doesn’t really warm up.  Our suits are toasty warm, flexible and comfortable
  • OK TO USE YOUR OWN GEAR. It’s best to learn on your own gear if you have it. But please don’t buy gear just for our class. Try our gear first!
  • Rates are non-negotiable / Gratuities are always welcome. 

Contact me

“I took a 3 hour one-on-one novice surf ski lesson with Rob and had a really great experience. Rob is hugely knowledgeable and also very patient with newcomers. I went in hoping to get the early tips that everyone wishes they had at the start of a new sport and Rob’s lesson was spot on – stability tips, paddling technique, boat handling, boating conventions and etiquette, safety and gear info etc. My basic paddling in chop was going well so Rob also helped me make a start on wake riding and the concepts for down-winding. Once I get some more experience I’ll be back for more. Thanks Rob!.”  Mike L  (Sept 2022)