Low Experience Pre-requisite / Higher Focus on Skills Training / Optional TRAK Kayak Add-On

  • Region: Gulf Islands, West Coast of Canada
  • Duration: 4 Days, 3 Nights
  • Dates: September 19 - 22, 2025
  • Skill Level: All are welcome

Led by TRAK Pilots and the HQ team, we invite you to join us for this symposium-style event. We will make use of the group camping facilities on Saysutshun (Newcastle) Island, easily accessible from the Nanaimo harbour. There are bathroom facilities present, as well as several other amenities nearby - this will not be a "rugged" experience.

Skills training topics include paddling skills, techniques, and mastery of the TRAK 2.0 itself. TRAK Pilots and guest presenters bring a wide spectrum of expertise, with programming planned for both novice and experienced paddlers.

We look forward to strengthening our communal ties and forging friendships that inspire future expeditions and simple trips. There will be some festive entertainment, such as live music, to enjoy in the evenings after dinner.

There is an optional multi-day tour to DeCourcy Island at the end of the gathering, which will take place from September 22nd-24th. The conclusion of the gathering is also a perfect launchpad to other adventures on Vancouver Island.


 

What you'll learn:

- Boat Control Skills
- Paddling Stroke
- Self & Assisted Rescues
- TRAK Product Mastery
- Various aspects of Seamanship. i.e. weather, navigation, tides, and chart reading etc.

What we're going to do:

You'll arrive in Nanaimo, Vancouver Island with your gear in tow, where the TRAK Pilot Team will coordinate your crossing to Newcastle Island - you can either paddle over or take a small ferry.

After our opening ceremony featuring a visit from a local First Nation artist and storyteller, we will establish our camp and prepare our equipment for the paddling days ahead. 

The skills progression component will begin in earnest on the morning of September 20th with a foundational segment about boat control, with on-land "seamanship" components sprinkled throughout the gathering.

Itinerary:

Expedition Plan:

DAY 1: Opening ceremony, camp orientation, and evening inaugural paddle
DAY 2: Foundational boat control skills, assisted + self rescues, TRAK mastery
DAY 3: Applying foundation while touring to local islands and features
Day 4: Optional morning paddle, launch of DeCourcy group, Gathering wrap up

We will also take situational opportunities to advance in areas such as rolling, line + contact towing, and applying seamanship concepts in a practical way.

What is included?

- Campsite accommodations on Saysutshun Island (Newcastle)
- Comprehensive TRAK 2.0 product training
- Catered Meals
- Festive Entertainment
- Guided Skills Instruction

A comprehensive packing list will be shared upon trip registration.

What's not included?

- Your TRAK 2.0 + paddling gear
- Tent, sleeping gear, and personal camp kit
- Transportation to Saysutshun Island
- Gratuities

Trip leaders who care

All TRAK Trips are facilitated by qualified paddlers with in-depth experience in TRAK Kayaks, so you can learn pro-tips from the source. We are proud to work with professional guides and paddling instructors from all over the world.

Meet a TRAK Pilot near you

FAQs

Please read our FAQs page to find out more.

Are TRAK Kayaks designed for air travel?

Yes! Our latest model, the TRAK 2.0, packs into a rolling travel bag specially designed to meet airline requirement for check luggage. For recommended best practices for flying with a TRAK folding kayak, visit this page.

Are my flights included in the price?

Your transportation to and from the starting location is not included in the trip price. For more information about flights and logistics, contact our team.

Do I have to sleep in a tent?

Not if you don't want to. Each TRAK trip is uniquely tailored for paddlers based on their comfort zones. Some trips are designed for paddlers with lots of experience and personal camping gear, while others are designed for paddlers who prefer to base camp from a fixed roof accommodation.

Do I have to get wet?

Not if you don't want to! While our instructors are often happy to teach skills around wet exits, reentries, and rescues, you are not required to do so.

Didn’t find your answer?

Don't hestitate to contact us