
SEA KAYAK BEGINNER COURSE
An Introduction to Sea Kayaking on the Pembrokeshire Coast
Embark on an unforgettable sea kayaking journey along one of the UK’s most spectacular coastlines. In a small, supportive group, you’ll build your confidence and paddle skills whilst exploring dramatic sea caves, enchanting rock gardens, hidden coves, and pristine beaches.
Perfect for beginner paddlers, this immersive multi-day course makes the most of Pembrokeshire’s varied coastal terrain to introduce you to the joy of sea kayaking. Guided by expert local coaches, you’ll receive personalised instruction tailored to your goals, empowering you with the skills and knowledge to plan and navigate your own kayaking adventures with confidence.
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Meeting Point: LLanungar, near Solva.
For complete beginners or those who have had a couple of days’ kayaking experience, this course great fit. However, paddlers of a higher level are also welcome, especially those looking for a relaxed-paced trip with a little more time to enjoy the stunning scenery and wildlife.
Want a taster experience before booking a course? Try our half-day sit-on-top trips or full-day trips in touring kayaks to get started.
Alternatively, please do get in touch below if you’re interested in joining a higher-level course.
Course lengths vary between 2 and 5 days depending on the date, but you’re warmly welcome to extend your stay at Preseli Venture. Make the most of your time on the coast by trying out a whole host of other adventures.
Course duration & pricing (per person): +
Please note, the length of the course varies between dates. Some dates have the option of extending from 2-5 days, whilst others are only available as a 2-day course.
Pricing for different course lengths:
- 2 days – £210
- 3 days – £300
- 4 days – £380
- 5 days – £450
What will I learn? +
This course is designed to give you a strong foundation in sea kayaking, covering key skills such as:
- Basic boat handling
- Efficient paddling techniques
- Launching and landing
- Self and assisted rescues
- Introductory navigation and tidal planning
- Understanding weather patterns
- Sea safety essentials
- Equipment use and maintenance
- Marine and environmental awareness
With small group sizes, there’s plenty of flexibility to tailor the experience to your interests. You’ll have the chance to highlight any specific areas you’d like to focus on at the start of the course.
Expect plenty of personalised coaching throughout, helping you build confidence, develop your skills, and reach your full potential on the water.
What are the timings? +
Each day will run from 09:00 – 17:00.
What prior experience do i need? +
This course is designed for complete beginners or those who have had a few days experience of a paddlesport such as sea kayaking, kayaking, canoeing or SUP boarding.
To get the most out of this course, you should:
- Be in good physical health.
- Feel comfortable both in and on the water.
- Be able to swim or feel confident floating with a buoyancy aid.
If you’re unsure whether this is the right level for you, we’re happy to chat and help you decide!
Can I join an intermediate or advanced group instead? +
Yes, you’re very welcome to join a higher-level course. Please get in touch, and we’ll help decide what’s best for you. We have a range of courses available including:
- Intermediate Courses
- Advanced Courses
- Bespoke Trips
- Wildlife Tours
- BCAB Personal Performance Awards
- BCAB Safety Awards
- BCAB Leadership Awards
- BCAB Coaching Awards
Who is this course for? +
This course is ideal for anyone who’s looking to grow their confidence and skills in a stunning coastal environment.
Thinking of buying your own sea kayak? This is a great step toward becoming an independent paddler. You’ll gain essential skills like tidal planning and weather interpretation to help you plan your own adventures.
Whether you’re part of a sea kayaking club, paddling with friends or family, or setting out solo, this course offers a supportive, skill-building experience tailored to your goals.
Will i gain any qualifications? +
This is a hands-on skills-based course with no formal assessments or qualifications. However, it can be aligned with the British Canoeing Awarding Body’s (BCAB) Personal Performance Sea Awards for those interested in progressing further.
If you’d like to take any of the BCAB qualifications, please do get in touch.
Are there any age restrictions? +
Our age limits are for guidance purposes and can be flexible. If you wish to bring younger participants please contact us before making a booking.
All under 18s must be accompanied by an adult.
What kit is included? +
We’ll provide all the essential gear you need for a safe and comfortable experience:
- A high-quality P&H custom sea kayak from our fleet.
- Touring paddling jacket.
- Personal flotation device (PFD).
- Spraydeck.
- Paddle.
- Drybag.
- Long John wetsuit.
Where do we meet? +
We have a meet-up point in Llanungar, near Solva. We’ll send you directions in your confirmation of booking. This is where you meet your instructors and get kitted up.
You’ll need your own transport to drive to the activity location, which is chosen on the day. We take into account the tide, swell and wind and choose from our range of beautiful locations to give you the best possible experience.
Is there a minimum requirment for the course to go ahead? +
The course requires a minimum of 3 people to run, however, you can book as an individual, couple or group. You will be notified in advance if the required course numbers are not met.
Can I arrange a bespoke sea kayak trip instead? +
Yes! Whether it’s a wildlife watching tour, or an expedition to a specific place, please get in touch to chat about your specific needs.
Looking for a different sea kayak course?
Use the contact form below to connect directly with one of our experienced sea kayak guides. They’ll help you find the right course level for your experience – whether that’s intermediate, advanced, or something more tailored. You can also explore a wide range of British Canoeing Awarding Body (BCAB) accredited training courses and assessments, or book a private, bespoke session designed just for you.