Private Canoe and Kayak Instruction
Private lessons provide custom-tailored programming with an experienced NOC Instructor to help achieve the goals of individuals and groups. Private instruction is available for all skill levels, all crafts (kayak, canoe, or raft), and all disciplines. Small groups are also welcome!
Overview
Focus on your individual paddling goals with a personalized instruction session! Private lessons provide you the undivided attention of an experienced NOC Instructor and are available for all skill levels, all crafts (kayak, canoe, or packraft), and all disciplines, on multiple rivers in the Southeast.
Private lessons are custom-built for the student’s goals, allowing you to focus on specific skills for a complete beginner, all the way to mastering your kayak roll, catching eddies, and boofing drops.
We also welcome small groups (up to five) so that you can learn with family or friends! We can customize classes for larger groups, please call for details.
We can truly cater to any need! Here are a few examples:
- If you have anxiety, you could take our Anxiety Management for Whitewater Kayakers private instruction
- Swiftwater rescue training
- ACA instructor training
- Packrafting
- Oar rigging
- and more!
We also offer private instruction on some of the most iconic rivers in the Southeast! Depending on experience and skill level, we can provide clinics on the Nantahala, Chattooga, French Broad, Pigeon, Ocoee, and more. Call us for details at 828-785-5020
What You’ll Learn & Skills You’ll Acquire
Skills taught will be customized to the paddler’s experience level and goals.
What to Expect
Private instruction guests will meet their instructor and start with gearing up with the proper equipment and boat. After meeting your instructor and gearing up, you will discuss your goals and make a plan for the day to achieve them. You will break mid-day for lunch before heading back out onto the water!
Dates
Location
Before You Visit
- Lunch (Full-Day Only)
- All necessary specialty whitewater equipment
- In-Course Transportation
- Access to NOC’s extensive fleet of instruction boats for in-clinic use
- NOC’s highly trained, ACA certified instruction
NOC Provides the primary gear needed for each course including boats, paddles, PFD’s, helmets, spray skirts, semi-dry tops, wetsuit bottoms, and booties. Exclusive discounts are available for course participants at the Outfitter’s Store.
Necessary Items (All Courses)
- Shorts/swimwear
- Water shoes or old sneakers
- Synthetic T-shirts
- Sunscreen/lip balm
- Towel and change of clothes each day
- Reusable water bottle
- Clothing and personal items
- Rain gear
- Synthetic long underwear
- Light fleece hoodie/pullover
Optional Items
- Nose clips
- Sunglasses
- Eyeglass strap
- Hat or visor
- Earplugs (if sensitive to water)
Lunch is included in the course fee. Additional meals, snacks, and beverages can be purchased at NOC’s two onsite restaurants or the General Store. Discounts are available for course participants.
Meet Our Instructors
The NOC Paddling School stands out because of its exceptional instructors, who are experienced, skilled paddlers, and creative teachers. Their expertise and dedication are why Outside Magazine named us the “Best Place to Learn”
Click here to view our full list of Paddling School Instructors
