The sea kayaker operates in an area that is inherently dangerous, where strong winds, waves, tidal stream, cold water, traffic, etc, can all influence safety. Safety of the shore can be a long way off so it is important to have good boat control before venturing out on the open sea. The Salzwasser Union (SaU) does not, therefore, offer training for novice canoeists!

An important part of the training for members of the Salzwasser Union is that they learn of the dangers endemic to coastal paddling and are able to calculate the risk involved.

In order to impart such knowledge, the Salzwasser Union offers to teach both paddling skills and rescue techniques, as well as subjects such as meteorology, rules at sea and navigation. A well planned, safety-conscious tour should be a success, ultimately affording both pleasure and a pleasurable experience.

With our kayaks, we are able to access ecologically sensitive areas that are not accessible to other forms of transport. From this, arises a special consideration for the natural marine environment. This is an important aspect of our training.

Training is carried out at different levels. Apart from paddle and rescue techniques, during the winter, advanced training workshops from navigation, ecology, meteorology, communication training, to Eskimo-rolling, etc are on offer.

The Association training program is published annually, and members of the “B/C Kreis” (Leader/Instructor circle) offer courses and workshops to members of the Association. It is pointed out, however, that course dates and detail may change from that published. Details of the programme of events is published in the Association journal, “SEEKAJAK” or through the Internet (www.salzwasserunion.de).

Pre-conditions:

• Equipment to SaU standard
• Be in good health
• Have kayak experience on inland waters
• Physically Fit

An RST course provides initial training for potential sea kayakers and is regionally based. In principle: a standardised format of physical preparation (warming up and stretching), paddle techniques (basic forward and reverse strokes, draw strokes, sweep strokes, emergency stops and the stern rudder, and support strokes), rescue techniques (Eskimo rescue, swimming with the boat, partner rescue: T-rescue, parallel and/or V-rescue, re-entry, all-in), towing techniques, warming down, and emergency signals (Participation in this training is also accepted from non-members of the Union).

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Conditions:

• Member of the SaU
• Have participated in an RST
• Proficient support strokes
• Proficient manoeuvring strokes
• Otherwise similar to RST

The Salzwasser Union offers canoeists, who are familiar with basic techniques, and who have a sea kayak with its recommended equipment simple day trips along the coast. The idea is that participants can gain some sea experience under controlled conditions. Participation in a Taster Trip forms part of the requirements for later qualification, and can also help the paddler decide whether he or she really wishes to take up sea kayaking as a sport, or not.

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Conditions

• Member of the SaU
• As above, but show proficient level of skills and knowledge!
• Physical fitness to undergo trips of at least 15-20nm under moderately severe conditions, i.e. wind 3-4 Beaufort, and use to advantage the effect of tidal streams, etc.
• Otherwise as above

Impart a knowledge of navigation, seamanship, meteorology, paddle and rescue techniques, first aid, nature conservation, with the goal of being self sufficient under simple sea conditions and/or in company of a Trip Leader under more difficult conditions, on tidal waters.

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Impart knowledge and skills needed to successfully lead a group of sea kayakers under difficult sea conditions, on tidal waters (participation on such courses is restricted to SaU members: further information is available on request).

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Qualification to become a Teacher within the Salzwasser Union (participation is restricted to SaU members: further information is available on request).

A successful candidate: “Has, at the completion of both B and C-training and testing, undergone a particularly hard apprenticeship, and at the end shows real dedication to the sport.“

The contact person for SaU Teachers and Trip Leaders is:

Theo van the Kuil
Email: theo.vanderkuil(at)salzwasserunion.de
Telephone: (07132) 41789

Theo supervises and coordinates the training and tour program of the Salzwasser Union. He also coordinates the activities of circle of the Trip Leaders and Teacher (B/C - Kreis).

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