Kayaking

For additional information please contact our Kayak Chair at: Kayak@NorthShoreYachtClub.com

New and experienced paddlers are always welcome

NSYC’s fleet of Kayaks can accommodate small to XL size adult paddlers. Kayaks are available for members use on a first-come first-served basis at times when boats are not reserved for classes or club events. We take water safety seriously and use the “buddy system” two kayaks paddle together at all times, within shouting distance of each other. Kayakers must wear a secured, US Coast Guard approved Life Jacket / Personal Flotation Device (PFD) on the water at all times. All Kayak events are subject to safe weather conditions.

NSYC offers classes for beginners and seasoned paddlers including stroke & technique development, rescue skills and more. Classes are taught by volunteer instructors certified by the American Canoe Association, the nation’s premiere paddle sports organization. Prior to using club equipment members are required to complete the Intro to Kayaking course Parts 1 & 2 (see below).

Kayak beachfront storage is available for residents and non-residents by contacting the Park District of Highland Park directly. NSYC does NOT handle private boat storage.

See our Membership page for annual membership rates, course costs and full club benefits.

Kayak Classes

Kayak classes are scheduled throughout the summer season. Dates and costs can be found on our Calendar under the Events tab. Equipment (kayak, paddle and life jacket) is included. Pre-registration is required (see links on the Calendar). Classes are available to adult members, and ages 13-18 yrs when taken with an adult member. 

NSYC Full or Paddle Membership is required to register for a Kayak Class

    • 5 hours total

    • Prerequisite: none

    • Fee: see memberplanet

    Part 1 is online (1.5 hour), and Part 2 is in person, on the sand and water (3.5 hours). Access to Part 1 will be provided to participants upon registration and must be completed prior to attending Part 2. Participants register and pay for the in-person Part 2 course date by using the Intro to Kayaking class links offered on our CALENDAR of EVENTS. A Reschedule Fee will be charged to change the in-person class date once registration is complete.

    DESCRIPTION: Learn basic paddle strokes, turns, essential equipment and gear care. Participants will also learn about water safety, assessing conditions and paddling on Lake Michigan. After both classes are completed, participants have an opportunity to pass the Kayak Paddle, Swim, Capsize and Assisted Rescue assessment required to use any NSYC Kayak equipment.

    • ~2 hours each trip

    • Prerequisite: experienced kayaker and instructor approval

    • Fee: See Member Planet Registration Page

    Want to challenge yourself to paddle further faster and hone your skills on our magnificent lake?  This is the group for you! The Kayak Explorers Group is geared toward experienced kayakers who are comfortable paddling 3 miles per hour, for 2-3 hour stretches.

    Participate in instructor-led trips to continue building your paddling and endurance skills and obtain Mileage Achievements; practice assisted and self-rescues; play kayak games; learn about physical preparation and kayaking gear; join organized Kayak Explorer Trips. Be sure to join us early in the season! Enrollment in KEG is limited and subject to Instructor approval.

    • 2 hours

    • Prerequisite: Intro to Kayak

    • Fee: see memberplanet

    Be ready to get yourself or your buddy back in the boat after a capsize. Practice a variety self and assisted rescues and learn new rescue techniques under instructor supervision. Find out which ones work best for YOU. Overcome your fear of getting “stuck” in your boat or not being able to get back in by practicing in a safe environment.  Full submersion is an integral part of these clinics, but at the height of summer it will feel great - this may be the most fun you’ll have all summer!

Full Moon Paddle Events

Check the Events Calendar for our fun and popular Full Moon Paddles. Reserve a kayak as soon as registration opens, or bring your own. We’ll paddle ‘til sunset then enjoy a delicious Pot Luck while watching the moon rise over the Lake! Bring your favorite snack or refreshment to share.

Volunteers are always needed – it’s a great way to meet paddling buddies. For additional information please contact Kayak@NorthShoreYachtClub.com

Paddle & Pour Group (PPG)

Wednesday mornings, starting June 3, 6:30–8:00AM. Build paddling confidence, strength, and friendships. Paddle and Pour is relaxed and non-competitive—bring a drink for after.

We paddle only on calm water (≤1 ft), weather permitting. South: to Ravine or Rosewood Beach; North: to Moraine Beach or Fort Sheridan.

Connect with other PPG paddlers via the Google Group. To join, email PaddleAndPour@NorthShoreYachtClub.com and message the group on Tuesdays to meet up.

NOTE:  All classes and on-water activities are subject to weather conditions.