ACSKG Guide Course

Join Champion Adventures & Coaching and the Association of Canadian Sea Kayak Guides (ACSKG) for an immersive, 6-day expedition-style Assistant Guide Course in the legendary waters of Clayoquot Sound & Quadra Island.

This program combines skill refinement, leadership development, and the full expedition experience, an ideal foundation for those pursuing a professional guiding career. Starting the program at Discovery Island Lodge, participants will be working on some theory sessions about tides and currents, as well as working in the current. From Quadra the group will travel to Tofino for one night before launching by kayak through the islands and beaches of Vargas Island.

A big focus on building competence, confidence in dynamic coastal conditions. Each day will integrate theory, on water application adn evaluation in the following areas;

• Weather forecasting and interpretation
• Navigation
• Tides & Currents
• Risk assessment, mitigation and management.
• Rescue system, incident management
• Group management.

By course end, participants will have gained the hands-on experience and knowledge needed to meet the ACSKG’s Assistant Guide standards while living the rhythm of a west coast kayak expedition.



Location & Cost

Dates: April 16th - April 22nd
Duration: 7 Days
Start: Discovery Island Lodge, Quadra Island
Finish: Tofino, BC

Style: Lodge based & Expedition-Based Professional Training

Skill Level: Beginner


Course Highlights

• Expedition-style training in Clayoquot Sound
• Focus on leadership, risk management, and navigation
• Surf landing practice on Vargas Island
• Rescue and towing scenarios in dynamic conditions
• Daily group debriefs and coaching feedback
• Overnight camping in remote coastal locations
• Course Ratio 1:4



What's Included

• Certified ACSKG Instructor/Trainer with west coast expedition experience
• Group expedition gear (tarps, stoves, cookware, repair kits, water filters)
• First aid kit and communication devices (VHF and InReach)



Not Included

• Transportation to and from Quadra & Tofino
• Accommodation before/after the course
• Personal lunches, snacks, and beverages
• Personal camping or paddling equipment (available for rent)



Rental Options

• Fiberglass NDK kayak with safety gear
• Drysuit
• Carbon paddle (Euro or Greenland)
• Camping equipment (tent, mat, sleeping bag)

Certification & Outcomes
Upon completion, successful candidates will be evaluated for ACSKG Assistant Guide certification, demonstrating professional competency in navigation, weather interpretation, group leadership, and safety systems for coastal guiding.