Salish Sea Kayak Symposium

May 1-3, 2026

A world-class gathering of sea kayakers, coaches, and adventurers on the Salish Sea.

Registration Available January 2026

Presented By:

Event Supporters

This Years Symposium Has Sold Out!

However, we have a waitlist going for folks who want to be on the list in case of a cancellation, and be in the loop for next years event!

Join the Waitlist!

About the Symposium

A world-class gathering of sea kayakers, coaches, and adventurers on the Salish Sea.

The Salish Sea Kayak Symposium brings together world-class sea kayak coaches, passionate paddlers, and ocean lovers for a dynamic weekend of training, exploration, and community. Spend three days on the water with leading coaches from around the globe, with programs designed for all levels of paddlers.

Whether you're looking to push your skills in dynamic water, build leadership skills, or connect with new and old friends, this event is designed to inspire, challenge, and connect you with the larger paddling community.

What to Expect

On-Water Programming

Three full days of skills sessions across tidal currents, dynamic water, leadership, rescues, and more. Appropriate for all skill levels

Post Symposium Training

BC/ACA training and assessment opportunities for those seeking progression or formal certification.

World-Class Coaches

Coaches from multiple countries, representing decades of expertise across a range of paddling disciplines.

On-Site Lodging

Cornet Bay Retreat Center has bunk rooms and camping areas for paddlers looking to stay on-site for the weekend.

Registration is opening soon!

Save the date now—official registration launches soon.

Community & Connection

Gatherings each night including presentations, coach talks, and social time around the fire. A welcoming and supportive atmosphere where paddlers can network, learn, and grow.

Logistics & Travel

Location

Cornet Bay Retreat Center

Situated just minutes from Deception Pass, Bowman Bay, and many other stunning paddling locations, Cornet Bay offers the perfect base location for the event and after paddling activities.

Lodging

Onsite lodging is available for participants and coaches in shared, cabin-style accommodations. Think simple, comfortable, and community minded. There is a shared bunkhouse local camping areas available.

Getting There

Folks travelling to Anacortes will want to fly into Sea Tac International Airport and either rent a car or take the Bellair Airporter Shuttle to Anacortes where we can arrange a ride to the Venue. We can also help coordinate ride-shares.

Our Team

Alex LaLonde

Alex is the founder of the Body Boat Blade Symposium and has spent years teaching, coaching, and collaborating with paddlers and instructors from around the world. His work is rooted in thoughtful progression, real-world conditions, and building a strong, connected paddling community.

Founder & Symposium Director

Ryan Hayes

Ryan brings deep experience as a sea kayaking coach and educator, known for his calm presence, technical clarity, and ability to meet paddlers where they are. As Lead Coach, he helps shape the instructional vision of the symposium and supports both participants and coaching staff on and off the water.

Lead Coach
Operations & Community Director

Sarah LaLonde

Sarah keeps the symposium running smoothly behind the scenes while also being a visible part of the on-site experience. From logistics and coordination to community care and support, she wears many hats to ensure the event feels welcoming, organized, and well-held for everyone involved.

Full Team

Thank You to Our Event Sponsors!

STAY IN THE LOOP

 FAQs

  • This learning symposium is best suited for beginner to intermediate paddlers, with opportunities for complete newcomers to try kayaking and take part in the event. More advanced paddlers are welcome too. We will be putting together groups based on experience level.

  • We will be able to provide most of the gear you would need to participate during the weekend. Kayaks and Drysuits will be available for rent, and all other gear is included. Below is a short list of the required equipment:

    • Sea kayak with internal floatation (Bulkheads or floatation bags) and decklines

    • Immersion wear - Drysuit, or wetsuit & splash jacket. We recommend at least a 2/3mm wetsuit.

    • Spray skirt

    • Paddle

    • PFD (type 3 or 5 only)

    • Helmet

    • Closed Footwear

    • Bilge pump

    • Paddle Float

    • Tow belt

  • In early May the waters around Deception Pass, Bowman Bay, and Fidalgo Island offer a mix of lively currents and sheltered paddling that accommodates all skill levels: Deception Pass itself can produce strong, fast tidal currents and occasional standing waves near the narrow channels, while nearby protected areas and coves, including the calm waters of Bowman Bay, provide gentle, sheltered conditions ideal for beginners and skill-building. Fidalgo Island’s shoreline presents a variety of options from exposed stretches with moderate wind-driven chop to quiet estuaries and protected inlets that are perfect for guided outings, wildlife viewing, and practicing strokes and rescues under safer conditions.

    Early May in the San Juan Islands is cool and variable: daytime air temperatures typically range from the mid-40s to mid-50s Fahrenheit, with mornings often brisk and the possibility of light rain or fog; wind can be light to moderate but its not uncommon to have a gale blow through.

    Water temperatures remain cold—usually in the mid-40s to low-50s F—so immersion presents real hypothermia risk. Layering for kayaking should prioritize moisture management and insulation plus a reliable waterproof outer shell: start with a synthetic or merino baselayer, add an insulating midlayer (fleece or synthetic puffy) that retains warmth when damp, then wear a waterproof breathable jacket or drytop/drysuit depending on exposure and skill level; neoprene spray skirts, warm socks, booties, gloves, and a hat or hood are essential to protect extremities.

  • Each group will be accompanied with an experienced certified coach or instructor operating at or below their certification level, and at least one safety kayaker (most of which are also certified instructors). All on water staff will be equipped with marine radios, flares, navigation tools, first aid and repair kits. We will liaise with the local coast guard so that they know our groups call signs and where we will be operating should any issues arise. We will have staff on land at all paddling venues who will be on lookout for groups who may be in distress or need assistance.

    All Participants can leave their kayaks and gear at the Cornet Bay Retreat Center for safety purposes.

  • There will be lodging available at the Cornet Bay Retreat Center. They have a bunkhouse that will be available to participants. We may be able to set up tents on the grounds, but still awaiting approval. Staying on-site will make things extra convenient for off-water gatherings, food, etc.

    There are multiple campgrounds in the area that are no more than 10 minutes away.

    • Deception Pass State Park (closest)

    • Quarry Pond Campground

    • Washington Park

    • Lake Erie Campground

    • Fidalgo Bay RV Resort

    • Cap Sante Marina RV Park

    There are also hotels, motels and Airbnb options available in town. Our top hotel reccomendations (from personal experience) are the Salish Inn, and the Sunrise Inn. To our knowledge, there aren’y any hotels you should “stay away from”

    All Participants can leave their kayaks and gear at the Cornet Bay Retreat Center for safety purposes

  • Coming Soon

  • Coming Soon

There are no upcoming events at this time.