On May 16, The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) and Florida Youth Conservation Centers Network will kick off National Safe Boating Week. They, along with paddlesports leaders, will offer Kayaking 101, a low-cost introductory kayaking class, at the Suncoast Youth Conservation Center in Hillsborough County.
Kayaking 101 is a multi-state initiative that is in its fifth year of helping hundreds of individuals safely dip their paddles into kayaking for the first time. Last year, 330 paddlers in five states received training at the event. In 2024, the volunteer-led effort was recognized with the National Safe Boating Council’s Communications Community Impact Award. This year, volunteers are offering Kayaking 101 classes to the public in over 40 locations in eight states.
The event is supported by paddling leaders from American Canoe Association Florida, the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary and Tampa Bay Kayak Anglers, as well as volunteer instructors who are certified to teach paddle sports by the ACA. The ACA’s nationally-recognized standards will guide the paddlesports instruction for the event.
“We are excited to partner with paddlesports experts to bring Kayaking 101 to Suncoast Youth Conservation Center as part of National Safe Boating Week,” said Brian Rehwinkel, FWC Boating Safety Outreach and Education Coordinator. “Paddling is a tremendous opportunity for both visitors and residents to enjoy our beautiful waterways, but we want folks to do it safely.”
“We want families to enjoy the outdoors but it’s so much better when you get a little knowledge and a few skills so you can take your family out all summer long and always come home smiling,” said Chantel Stampfer, Suncoast Youth Conservation Center administrator. “Safety is our number one priority, and Suncoast is proud to partner with paddling experts to support this important outdoor recreation initiative.”
“Our volunteer instructors are excited to welcome newcomers to our sport and give them some hard-won insights about how to stay safe and keep everyone smiling when you go on your paddling adventures,” said Andrea White, National Chair of the Kayaking 101 initiative. “A great first experience can spark a lifelong connection to paddling and love for our waterways.”
Kayaking 101 information:
- Location: Suncoast Youth Conservation Center, 6650 Dickman Road, Apollo Beach, FL 33572.
- Date and Time: Saturday, May 16, 10 AM–4 PM
- Cost: $15 per person (includes kayak rental and all necessary gear).
Space is limited. Registration begins today at FWC Outreach. A free online course is also available on the ACA Paddlesports site; however, in-person instruction with a nationally-certified instructor is strongly encouraged.