Blue Dog Kayaking is now running Guide training programs in partnership with the Association of Canadian Sea Kayak Guides.
The Blue Dog Kayaking Assistant Guide course is designed for adventurous individuals seeking to challenge their current leadership and outdoor experience with the potential of assisting multi-day kayak tours. Assistant guides will be able to assist lead guides in ACSKG class I, II and III waters on day and overnight trips. Course curriculum will comply with ACSKG standards. The assistant guide certification will be the stepping stone to becoming a lead multi-day guide in British Columbia, Canada and around the world.
Course Length
5 days out of the Port Sidney Marina and into the Gulf Islands learning the fundamentals
2 days west coast for dynamic water workshops.
5 days of the program will be held in Sidney, using the Gulf Islands as our training area. About a 10 minute paddle out from our base we have access to challenging landings, navigational challenges, boat & ferry crossings as well as current. 2 days will involve some west coast & more dynamic water exposure. Each location offers possibilities to focus on the fundamental aspects of the guiding courses, with great assessment areas, and good learning challenges. Our programs will be focused on more than just their guiding abilities but also their skills. We want to develop strong, capable guides who are going to strive in the industry, as well fostering a more inclusive community within the sea kayaking world.
* We reserve the right to alter the location due to weather or unsafe conditions.
Examination:
Each student will be assessed through the ACSKG practical exam at the end of the course. Which will be assessed on the last two days of the course. A written open book exam will be required to pass the Paddle Canada Skills portion of the programming. This can be done before the course, or after.
Certification:
After completing the 7 days of the course as well as the practical and written exams, the participants will be eligible for their assistant ACSKG certification. To become a fully certified assistant guide you will also need your Restricted Operator Certificate (Maritime), and basic 40 hour wilderness first aid. Based on current ACSKG standards. Paddle Canada L2 skills is also available on this program.
