Kayak & Canoe Courses at Kilfinane Outdoor Education & Training Centre
Learn to Kayak or Canoe in Limerick with Kilfinane OETC. We offer training at all levels in both Kayaking and Canoeing to include Canoeing Ireland certified Skills and Instructor Courses.
We can provide training for kayak clubs, youth groups & small groups on demand and also run a calendar of courses each year. If you can’t see a course scheduled to meet your needs please get in touch to see what we can arrange.
Introduction to Kayaking
Learn to Kayak or improve your skills. Our Intro to Kayaking course runs over 4 evening sessions, three on flat water in Lough Gur and a gentle taster of moving water on the River Shannon in Castleconnell. Click here for Kayak course dates.
Womens Paddlesports
Women’s only Paddlesport course. A chance to try all aspects of Paddlesports in a safe and fun environment – Sit on Top Kayaks, Kayaking, Canoeing and Stand Up Paddleboarding. No experience required. Click here for Kayak course dates.
Level 1 Kayak Skills
Learn the basics of Kayaking over 2 evening sessions or 1 full day. Canoeing Ireland certification is available if required. Level 1 skills can be completed in regular sit in kayaks or sit-on-top kayaks. Courses take place in Lough Gur.
Level 2 Kayak Skills
These Canoeing Ireland certified courses run over either 2.5 days or five evenings and take place at our base at Lough Gur. Level 2 Kayak skills is suitable for complete beginners and will give you all the skills needed to safely paddle on flat water, including basic rescues.
Level 3 Kayak Skills & Assessments
Once you’ve mastered the basics why not take on the challenge of learning whitewater kayaking. The level 3 kayak skills course introduces paddlers to moving water and consists of two days training. Generally participants will then need 1-2 seasons paddling experience before attending a Level 3 skills assessment. The assessment takes 1 Day and is certified by Canoeing Ireland. Previous experience to Level 2 standard is required.
River Safety & Rescue Courses (RSR)
River Safety & Rescue courses are a great way to hone your rescue skills and keep you safe on the water. RSR1 is a half day course focusing on flatwater skills and safety. This is ideal for beginner level paddlers who have completed Level 2 skills. RSR2 is a full day course which looks at safety and rescue on moving water. Participants should have experience paddling moving water. We can supply all specialist equipment for these courses. RSR courses are certified by Canoeing Ireland. Previous experience to Level 2 standard is required.
Canoe Skills Courses
Canoe Skills courses are provided on demand. We offer:
- Level 1-3 Canoe Skills Training & Assessment
- Level 2 Canoe Instructor Training
Level 2 Kayak Instructor Training & Assessment
This course runs over two days. Applicants must be certified at Level 3 Kayak skills level or higher. Upon completion of training candidates must fulfil Canoeing Ireland training requirements before they can attend for assessment.
Kilfinane OEC run Level 2 Kayak Instructor assessments on demand. Candidates must have completed all Canoeing Ireland requirements. Please contact our office for further information or see here for course dates.
We have close links with Limerick Kayak Club who are open to new members holding the Canoeing Ireland Level 2 skills award.
