Sea Skills and NSWSKC Grade 3

Paddle Australia Sea Skills qualification is aimed at getting paddlers able to plan and conduct personal sea kayaking trips.  Members who have obtained Sea Skills are considered to have the skill, knowledge and experience to undertake open sea trips safely and the ability to contribute to group safety.  It is also a significant step towards achieving club leadership qualifications.

The time needed to develop skills depends on the individual’s time, availability, base skill set and dedication. Typically, it can take members around two years to develop the skills and knowledge to attain Sea Skills.  The great thing is that you learn while out paddling. 

The assessment process includes demonstration of on water paddling skills in open sea conditions and small surf, including a kayak roll, and also preparing a trip plan and knowledge tests.  There is a minimum log book requirement to complete as well.

 What is involved is outlined in the Paddle Australia Sea Skills Assessment Guide.

The club developed a Sea Skills Study Guide  to assist members with the knowledge components of the assessment.  The Training Coordinator can organise access to Australian Canoeing training material.

In some cases, assessors conduct a review session before final assessment to give feedback on the current level of practical, on-water skills and an outline of additional requirements needed to substantiate the AC Sea Skills application.     

For additional information, go to the Paddle Australia Award Scheme, then select the “Sea Kayaking” menu and expand on Sea Skills. 

The  PA qualification lasts 3 years.  Re-registration is free for skills qualification holders who use Paddlelog.

Contact the club Training Coordinator to register your interest in obtaining sea skills. 

NSWSKC Grade 3

The NSWSKC also has a paddler grading system that helps the Club’s trip leaders understand the

paddling ability of members who sign up for trips. Many paddlers would be familiar with Grade 1

and Grade 2 standards.

The Club’s Grade 3 standard is very similar to Paddle Australia’s Sea Skills qualification, but also

involves planning and undertaking an overnight camping trip. Paddle Australia does not have a

requirement for overnight camping for any of its qualifications. Instead, this is managed separately

through a Camping Endorsement.

The Club has decided to retain Grade 3, separately from Paddle Australia’s Sea Skills qualification in

recognition of the focus of many members on expedition paddling, that involves overnight camping.

People may choose to undertake an overnight trip during their Sea Skills training and, if successfully

assessed, would attain both Sea Skills and Grade 3.

All training and qualifications are voluntary and aimed at improving paddlers competencies and

enjoyment of the sport. People are therefore entirely free to choose either just Sea Skills or to do

Sea Skills with an overnight trip and also attain Grade 3.

The key requirements of Sea Skills and Grade 3 are summarised in this PDF document here.