Sea Kayak Basics

Sea Kayak Basics: Build Your Foundation

Move beyond the cove and learn to navigate the Hudson River.
Most beginners fight the water with their arms. At Manhattan Kayak, we teach you to use your entire body as a power source. This 3-class series is designed to turn a high-performance sea kayak into a seamless extension of your movement.

Why train with us?

• The MKC Method: We use a signature land-to-water progression to build muscle memory on land before you launch.
• Focus on the Kinetic Chain: We replace arm-paddling with a full-body stroke that starts at the ball of your foot.
• Pro Standards: Our curriculum is aligned with the American Canoe Association (ACA).
• Small Groups: We cap classes at 6 students for better 1-on-1 coaching.

The 3-Class Pack

Classes must be taken in order: 1 → 2 → 3.

Class 1

Power & Connection (3 Hours)

• Dial in your fit: Learn to adjust foot pegs, thigh braces, and seat backs for a precise fit inside the kayak cockpit.
• Build muscle memory on land: Use our land-based drill to isolate the Kinetic Chain. You’ll learn to drive power through your core before launching.
• Apply it to the water: Take those mechanics into the cove for 2 hours of guided learning to see how a refined stroke transforms your experience.

Class 2

Control & Security (2.5 Hours)

• Engage the hull: Master Edging (tilting the boat to steer) and Bracing (using the paddle for balance) to use your lower body for control.
• Break the capsize mystery: Practice intentionally going over and recovering, you replace subconscious hesitation with lived confidence.
• Sync body and blade: Refine the Kinetic Chain until the boat feels stable and responsive to your every move.

Class 3

Navigation & Open Water (2.5 Hours)

• Visualize our waterways: Understand how NYC’s interconnected waters move as a single system.
• Learn about local effects: Identify conveyor belts, eddies, and the acceleration of water around buoys and obstructions.
• Unlock the river: Graduate as a vetted MKC Paddler, cleared for Intermediate Trips or your next kayaking vacation.

Logistics

• Complete Class 1-3 to unlock Intermediate Trips. After 4 Intermediates, you qualify for Advanced Trips (like the Statue of Liberty).
• We provide the sea kayaks, paddles, spray skirts, and life jackets.
• Wear synthetic clothing you don’t mind getting wet. (Full prep details are sent in your confirmation email).