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SK 102 is CPA’s on-water instruction event designed to cover the fundamentals of sea kayaking. It is taught by volunteer instructors who are experienced paddlers and who genuinely enjoy sharing what they know. This is not a race and it is not a test. It is a relaxed, supportive day on the water where everyone learns something — including the instructors.

The event is designed for beginners and newer paddlers who want to build a solid foundation, if you have ever wondered what to do when your paddle partner capsizes, or wished your forward stroke felt a little more effortless, SK 102 is exactly the right place to work on those things.

SK102 has moved to Centerville Maryland, and since we are no longer on a lake with warm water, we have moved the date to June 6^th, when the water will be warm enough and paddling will not require cold weather gear. Finally, there is no camping at the new venue so the event will not be one day of intensive training.

Our New Location: Conquest Beach, Centreville MD

This year we are moving SK 102 to Conquest Beach in Centreville, Maryland. Conquest Beach sits on the Chester River and offers a gentle, protected launch with calm water that is ideal for learning and practicing skills. There is parking available on site and a straightforward carry to the water. The site also includes a large pavilion, picnic tables, and restrooms.

The location is easily accessible from both the Western Shore and the Eastern Shore via Route 50 and the Bay Bridge. Camping is not available on the property, but there is camping close by at Tuckahoe or Martinak State Parks, motels on Kent Island, or possibly Air BnBs in the local area. Participants are responsible for their own lodging arrangements.

One Full Day of Learning

We have redesigned SK 102 as a one-day event. That means you get a full day on the water with your instructors — focused, efficient, and packed with practice time — without the need to arrange overnight accommodations. Bring your lunch, your sunscreen, and your sense of humor. We will take care of the rest.

There will be two tracks, Group 1 is for new paddlers, group 2 is for those who have paddled some, are comfortable doing wet exits, but still have lots to learn. If you don’t know what a wet exit is, you should be in Group 1. If you have taken SK102 in the past, you are welcome to attend as a volunteer.

The day will be divided into morning and afternoon sessions, with a break for lunch on the beach. Here is a sense of what to expect:

Morning session: the focus is on basic strokes and maneuvering. Instructors will work with small groups so everyone gets personal attention and useful feedback. Those who have had a little experience will work on refining these strokes.
Lunch break — A chance to rest, eat, ask questions, and enjoy the Chester River from the beach. Instructors will be around to chat, answer questions, and offer informal advice.
Afternoon session — The afternoon is where things get interesting. Group 1 will work on wet exits, how to get out of your kayak if you capsize and most importantly, how to get back in. Group 2 will work mostly on assisted and self-rescues to refine your technique.

Rolling is not covered in SK 102, and it is not required. What is required is the willingness to get a little wet and try things that might feel unfamiliar at first. Everyone who comes to SK 102 is in the same boat — so to speak — and the atmosphere is always encouraging and fun.

What to Bring

You will need your own kayak and paddle. A sea kayak or touring kayak with a spray skirt is strongly recommended. If you do not have your own boat and are not sure what to bring, reach contact us coordinator@cpakayaker.com before the event and we can help you work through your options.

Dress for immersion, not for the air temperature. Even on a warm spring or early summer day, the Chester River water temperature may still be cool enough that getting wet without proper gear is uncomfortable at best and unsafe at worst. A light weight windbreaker will help keep you more comfortable when you get wet.

Things to Bring Include:

Sea kayak or touring kayak with spray skirt
Paddle
PFD (personal flotation device) — must be worn at all times on the water
Water and snacks for the morning, lunch for the midday break
Change of clothes for after the paddle
Sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses

How to Register

Instructions for Registration for SK 102 will be posted on the CPA Meetup page. Spaces are limited — we keep the participant-to-instructor ratio small so that everyone gets meaningful time with an instructor and personal feedback. When the event is posted, sign up promptly. SK 102 fills up quickly every year, and for good reason.

CPA runs this event at our costs that include rental of the venue and other expenses. The registration fee will include 10 dollars for a one year membership or membership extension in CPA. This event is rain or shine. The only thing that might keep us off the water would be lightning, and even then, we will have learning opportunities on dry land. The final cost and refund policies will be posted on the CPA meetup site, but an RSVP on Meetup does not mean that you are registered.

Instructor Volunteers Needed

We still need volunteer instructors. Even if you are not a certified instructor, even if you think you can’t teach, if you love paddling and love sharing your knowledge, we need your help. When I was first turned loose on the unsuspecting paddling public, the lead instructor told me not to worry, I knew more than the participants did and that would be enough to get them started. It’s not about perfect technique, it’s about fun and safety.

See you on the water.

Paula Hubbard

CPA Coordinator