JBK Paddlers Club Grading System

Skill Level Grading.
Beginner Paddler :
•    New to paddling with limited paddling skills.
•    Not confident with capsize/rescue techniques.
•    Minimum safety equipment should include a whistle and PFD, paddle leash & spray deck if paddling a kayak with a cockpit.
•    Little knowledge of weather forecast information.
•    Low level fitness.
•    Able to paddle in wind 10knts or less.

Suitable Craft for Beginner Level

Touring Kayaks
•    3.8m in Length
•    Minimum Stern Bulkhead
•    Rudder or Skeg

Sea Kayaks
•    4.5m in Length
•    Bow and Stern Bulkheads
•    Rudder or Skeg

Sit On Top Kayaks
•    4.2m
•    Rudder

Novice Paddler :
•    Competent in basic paddling strokes.
•    Have practiced Capsize/rescue techniques.
•    Minimum safety equipment should include a whistle, PFD, Spray deck, pump, paddle leash, waterproof communication equipment.
•    Some basic knowledge of weather forecast information.
•    Average fitness level.
•    Able to paddle in wind 15kts or less.
•    Knowledge of landing technique for small wave conditions advisable.
•    Have completed Sea Skills Session One.

Suitable Craft for Novice Level

Touring Kayaks :
•    3.8m in Length
•    Bow and Stern Bulkheads
•    Rudder or Skeg

Sea Kayaks : 
•    4.5m in Length
•    Bow and Stern Bulkheads
•    Rudder or Skeg

Intermediate Paddler :
•    Competent in basic paddling strokes to a high standard.
•    Competent in Capsize/Rescue techniques to a high standard.
•    Minimum safety equipment should include a Whistle, PFD, Signal Mirror, V-Sheet, First Aid Kit, Spray deck, pump, paddle leash, waterproof communication Equipment.
•    Medium Level Weather forecast knowledge.
•    Comfortable on Open water and swell.
•    Moderate fitness level.
•    Able to paddle in wind 20kts or less.
•    Knowledge of landing technique for small swell conditions essential.
•    Have completed Sea Skills Session One and Sea Skills Session Two.

Suitable Craft for Intermediate Level

Sea Kayaks :
•    4.5m and over in Length
•    Bow and Stern Bulkheads
•    Rudder or Skeg

Advanced Paddler :
•    High Level Paddling ability.
•    High level Capsize/Rescue (including Eskimo Roll & Re-Enter Roll) techniques.
•    Minimum safety equipment should include a whistle, PFD, paddle leash, compass, Map/Charts, signal mirror, flares, V-Sheet, first aid kit, Spray deck, Pump (hands free operation preferred), Waterproof Communication Equipment, Spare clothing, food & water.
•    High Level Weather forecast knowledge.
•    Comfortable on Open water and swell.
•    Above average fitness level.
•    Able to paddle in wind 30kts or less.
•    Knowledge of landing technique for moderate swell conditions essential.
•    Ability to plot basic route on Maps and Charts.
•    Have completed Sea Skills Level One, Two, Three and Eskimo Rolling Course.

Suitable Craft for Advanced Level

Sea Kayaks :
•    4.5m and Over in Length
•    Bow and Stern Bulkheads
•    Deck Lines
•    Rudder or Skeg