Author Archives: Ted

The Class Calendar for the first half of the the 2026 season has now been posted. This covers the period of April into August, and the fall offerings will be added later in the summer. I have tried to anticipate a variety of dates and times, but if things don’t work out well for you, please let me know; and we’ll work out the details together and find a time and date(s) that do meet your needs.

People ask if lesson content can be adjusted, and that’s something that SSKS is happy to consider. I know that some come wanting some specific skills emphasized, and I can discuss those ideas with you and either accommodate into a lesson plan, or (if needed) refer you to other companies. Please note, however, that kayak rolling instruction is not offered by SSKS. Typically, those skills are best learned in a kayaking club environment.

Looking forward to seeing you on the water in 2026!

After a much busier early season than usual (THANKS to all our students!), the sometimes gloom of “June-uary” is warming into summer. So far, we’ve escaped smoke from wildfires, so we ask everyone to be cautious and follow fire restriction bulletins. As of June 30th, the late summer and fall schedule of classes is now on the Calendar. Of course, SSKS continues to offer classes outside the dates and times published, because I understand you may have scheduling around other parts of your life to consider. I also am happy to discuss with you custom content for your instruction; just get in touch! Both Private and Group lessons may be customized. In particular, there’s lots of availability during the week, including day and evening times. I look forward to working with you to share the enjoyment of sea kayaking! Happy Paddling!

CLASS ROOM OBSERVERS

The 2025 teaching season for SSKS is about to be underway, with scheduled classes available on the Calendar.  Of course, custom scheduling, as well as content, can be arranged.  Don’t forget that unique service available from SSKS!

A frequent question is “why do you teach ‘sea kayaking’ on a lake instead of on the bay?”  Since SSKS specializes in beginner and intermediate skills development, Lake Whatcom has a number of advantages.  First, the lake doesn’t have currents that make kayaking more difficult for beginners.  There’s also the fact that the lake water gets considerably warmer than Bellingham Bay, which makes wet exit and rescue sessions more comfortable.  The area of the lake where most sessions are held is generally sheltered from the wind and less subject to rough water, conditions that increase stress and make learning those all-important basics harder.  As well, our teaching area has MUCH less motorboat traffic in the immediate vicinity.  More advanced classes and Fun Paddles generally are done at various salt water locations.

Any time of the year is good for giving presents, and sea kayaking lessons make great gifts. Even though it’s blustery, chilly, and rainy right now, we can be as certain as possible that warmer weather will return. How about giving a family member or friend the opportunity to learn how to enjoy sea kayaking, or to improve on their existing skills? A Salish Sea Kayak School Gift Certificate is a popular gift and can be used throughout the coming year. Simply go to Our Classes, and you’ll see the link to the Gift Certificate form on the right side of the page. Fill out the information requested, including the amount of your gift, then go to Cart. Please manually add in 8.7% sales tax. That’s all there is to it! Happy Giving, everyone!