The Ocean River Paddling Symposium is a weekend of skills development, guided sessions, and community connection for sea kayakers of all levels. Hosted in Port Renfrew, it brings together experienced instructors, coastal paddlers, and outdoor enthusiasts for workshops, clinics, talks, and on-water learning.

The symposium is open to paddlers of all experience levels—from first-time paddlers to seasoned coastal kayakers. Sessions will be grouped by ability so you can learn at a pace that suits you.

The event takes place in Port Renfrew, BC, with most workshops taking place in the surrounding waters. Dates are set for April 10–12, 2026.

The weekend typically includes on-water clinics, coastal skills sessions, short guided paddles, safety and rescue workshops, and informal evening gatherings. A detailed schedule will be released closer to the event so you can choose the sessions that interest you most.

Participants are encouraged to bring their own kayak and safety equipment. Sea Kayaks will need solid bow and stern bulkheads, perimeter lines, and sealed hatches. All kayaks will be examined for safety at the time of lessons. Limited rentals may be available depending on demand and availability. We will provide updates as plans are confirmed.

Rental options may include kayaks, drysuits, paddles, and safety gear. Full details will be shared once finalized. At minimum, you should bring a properly fitted PFD, spray skirt, immersion-appropriate clothing, and any personal comfort items.

Registration is available through our online booking system. Your fee includes access to all scheduled workshops, instructional sessions, evening gatherings, and land-based seminars. Additional add-ons (such as rentals, event hats, shirts, and stickers) may be offered separately. Registration will open mid-December.

Accommodations are not included in registration. Port Renfrew offers a range of lodging options, including cabins, campgrounds, and small inns. We will provide a list of recommended options with symposium discounts once you have registered. Saturday breakfast, Saturday dinner, and Sunday breakfast are included with admission.

Accommodation options include Wild Renfrew, Handsome Dan’s, the Pacheedaht Campground, and numerous Airbnbs. Once you have signed up, check your confirmation email for accommodation discounts.

Non-paddling companions are welcome to enjoy Port Renfrew’s beaches, trails, and local attractions. Some social gatherings may be open to everyone, but only registered participants may join workshops and on-water clinics. Depending on interest, we may organize some non-paddling activities to accommodate non-paddling partners or paddlers with limitations who are unable to participate in a full day on the water.

Our instructors will adapt sessions as needed to maintain safety. This may include modifying locations, adjusting session plans, or shifting to land-based workshops.

Qualified instructors lead all sessions with appropriate certifications. Safety briefings, gear checks, and group management practices are part of every session. Some workshops may have prerequisites, which will be clearly noted when the complete workshop list has been published.

The cancellation policy for multiday instructionals is found here.

We anticipate having some gear demos or vendor presence, but details are still being confirmed. Updates will be provided as the event approaches.

Yes! Evening gatherings and presentations are planned. These offer opportunities to meet instructors, connect with fellow paddlers, and unwind after the day’s sessions. Saturday night will be the main evening gathering, featuring dinner, beverage tickets, and other activities for all attendees.

Bring clothing suitable for immersion, a PFD, a spray skirt, proper footwear, snacks, water, and any paddling essentials you typically rely on. A complete recommended packing list will be provided to registrants in the new year.

Transportation to and from the event will not be provided. Transportation to and from workshops will be the responsibility of attendees. We are exploring carpooling solutions to help everyone get themselves and their gear to the event.

Absolutely. Several workshops are designed specifically for new paddlers, focusing on foundational skills, safety, and confidence-building. We will be hosting Paddle Canada Basics courses and all-level navigation and sea-state sessions.

Yes. Experienced paddlers will find clinics on surf, rough water, navigation, rescues, and more technical coastal skills.

Subject to change: James Manke, Jaime Sharpe, Amber Champion, Justine Curgenven, Finn Steiner, Mike Gill, Blake Miller, Andrew Woodford, Emma Wehner, Harry Watson, Jordie Allen-Newman, Russell Henry, Fderico Canzani, George Clark, Jo Nicolson, Tracey Nilsson, Sam Fitz - James, Kim Dawson, Jamie Dawson,  and the remainder of the Ocean River Instruction crew will be running workshops, courses, and supporting on-water activities. A complete schedule and clinic list will be posted soon.

Port Renfrew has cafés, small restaurants, a general store, medical assistance nearby, and several accommodation options. Cell service may be limited in some areas.

We may have photographers documenting the event. Participants will be informed about the use of photos for promotional or social media purposes, with the option to opt out where appropriate.

You can reach the organizing team at adventure@oceanriver.com for any questions you may have.

To stay up to date, please sign up for the Ocean River newsletter, The Ebb and Flow.