Private Lessons

Learn How to Kayak or Paddleboard in NYC

Whether you’re prepping for a sea kayaking adventure or want to learn how to paddle board, our private lessons give you the skills and confidence to paddle safely and powerfully. Come solo or bring up to 2 other people.

These sessions are tailored for individuals, couples, or families. No group pressure, no experience needed—just focused, one-on-one support to help you master sea kayaking or paddle boarding in a beautiful NYC setting.

Lessons Designed for You

Our private lessons are completely personalized. You’ll work one-on-one (or two- or three-on-one) with a top-tier instructor on the Hudson River. You’ll get the freedom to ask questions, repeat skills, and focus on what matters most to you—whether you’re sea kayaking or stand-up paddle boarding.

Choose Your Format

2-Hour Private Lesson

A focused, flexible session for building comfort and core paddling skills. Ideal for first-timers, travelers, or anyone replacing a group class.

• $145 per person

4-Hour Private Lesson

Want more time to go deeper? This half-day intensive allows for serious progress while still fitting into a busy schedule. Great for refining technique, learning rescues, or preparing for future trips.

• $275 per person

6-Hour FastTrack

An immersive lesson to level up quickly—for beginners, it’s the equivalent of our Basics 1–2–3 Class Series. You’ll cover technique, rescues, trip planning, and more. Comparable to a full ACA Level 1–2 course–minus the rigid structure.

• $399 per person

Members receive 25% off private lessons.

Getting Ready for a Sea Kayak Adventure?

Many outfitters now require paddlers to take a kayak lesson before joining their guided trips. We’ve helped customers prep for adventures in Alaska, Patagonia, Iceland, Greenland, and beyond. Whether you’re heading out on a sea kayaking tour or just want to feel more confident on the water, these lessons will help you prepare.

What You Can Learn

• How to paddle efficiently: forward stroke, sweep, edging, bracing
• Self-rescue & assisted rescue techniques
• Trip planning and reading water conditions
• Paddling safety and confidence in open water
• Navigation, gear overview, tides & currents

What to Bring

What’s Included: Sea kayak or paddle board, paddle, life jacket, safety gear, restrooms, lockers, outdoor shower, and changing area.

What to Bring: Quick-dry clothing, water shoes, water bottle, sun protection, snack or lunch, and a change of clothes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I skip a level or move ahead by taking a private lesson?

A 2-hour private lesson is equivalent to one of our group Basics classes; a 4-hour lesson can cover two group classes; and a 6-hour FastTrack session covers the same lessons as the Basics Class 1-2-3 series. If you’re experienced and want focused coaching or a skills tune-up, we’ll tailor the session entirely to your goals.

I searched for “kayaking near me”—is this lesson in NYC?

Yes. All lessons launch from Pier 84 in Hudson River Park, just off W 44th Street & 12th Ave in Manhattan.

Do you offer private lessons for kids or families?

Yes. We welcome up to 3 participants per private lesson. Kids 10+ can learn how to kayak or paddle board alone with a parent or guardian nearby.

Do I need to know how to kayak before joining a sea kayaking tour elsewhere?

Yes—most outfitters now require training before their multi-day sea kayaking trips. Our lessons are a great way to prep for sea kayaking adventures in Alaska, Iceland, or beyond.

What’s the difference between a class and a tour?

Lessons focus on building skills and safety. Tours are about exploration and sightseeing. We offer beginner tours on sit-on-top kayaks. On intermediate-expert tours, we only use sea kayaks or paddle boards (not sit-on-top kayaks), and you’ll need solid instruction first.