CHARLEMONT BOAT TOUR FIELD GUIDE
Learn to Rescue on Whitewater: A Two‑Day Swiftwater Skills Clinic in Charlemont
An ACA‑based, two‑day clinic that blends classroom instruction and in‑water scenarios to teach river rescue techniques for rafters, kayakers and canoeists.
Learn to Rescue on Whitewater: A Two‑Day Swiftwater Skills Clinic in Charlemont.
Set against the moving pulse of New England rivers, Zoar Outdoor’s Swiftwater Rescue 2‑Day Skills Course is a focused, hands‑on clinic that teaches river rescue and prudent river‑running judgment through classroom sessions, shoreline drills and practical in‑water scenarios.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Practical, hands‑on rescue techniques
The course emphasizes in‑water practice—aggressive swimming, wading rescues, unpinning boats and using mechanical advantage—so participants leave with skills they can apply in real river emergencies.
ACA‑based curriculum led by certified instructors
The clinic follows a curriculum developed by the American Canoe Association and is led by ACA‑certified instructors who focus on judgment, rescue management and minimal‑equipment techniques.
All gear and a catered lunch provided
Zoar Outdoor supplies wetsuits, PFDs, helmets, boats and other paddling gear as needed, plus a catered picnic‑style lunch and transportation to paddling sites.
What the day feels like
What the Two Days Feel Like
The clinic alternates focused classroom time with shoreline drills before moving into practical, scenario‑based in‑water training; expect concentrated instruction aimed at building confidence and sound decision‑making in Class II whitewater environments.
LIFE‑SAVING SKILLS
Practical, hands‑on rescue techniques
The course emphasizes in‑water practice—aggressive swimming, wading rescues, unpinning boats and using mechanical advantage—so participants leave with skills they can apply in real river emergencies.
EXPERT INSTRUCTION
ACA‑based curriculum led by certified instructors
The clinic follows a curriculum developed by the American Canoe Association and is led by ACA‑certified instructors who focus on judgment, rescue management and minimal‑equipment techniques.
FULL‑SERVICE OUTFITTER
All gear and a catered lunch provided
Zoar Outdoor supplies wetsuits, PFDs, helmets, boats and other paddling gear as needed, plus a catered picnic‑style lunch and transportation to paddling sites.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this course is right for — and who should consider other options.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
The clinic runs each day from 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM with classroom and on‑water sessions throughout the day.
Participants meet at Zoar Outdoor where gear is issued and transportation to paddling sites is organized.
Wear secure footwear (no flip‑flops or Crocs). Avoid cotton; use wool or synthetic layers. Bring medications, sunglasses retainer, and expect everything to get wet.
Zoar Outdoor provides wetsuits, PFDs, helmets, boats, paddles and a catered picnic‑style lunch. If you have dietary restrictions, consider bringing your own packed lunch.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
What is the minimum age to attend?
Participants must be at least 14 years old.
What prior experience is required?
Participants should have familiarity with Class II (and ideally Class III) rivers; the course is intermediate to advanced in skill level.
When do the daily sessions start and end?
Each day runs from 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM.
Is equipment provided or do I need my own?
Zoar Outdoor provides paddling gear as needed, including wetsuits, PFDs, helmets, boats and paddles; you may use your own gear if appropriate.
What should I wear on the river?
Wear sneakers or other secure footwear (no flip‑flops or Crocs). Avoid cotton; use wool or synthetic layers for cooler conditions.
Are meals provided and what about food allergies?
A catered picnic‑style lunch is provided; Zoar does not use nuts in their food but cannot guarantee no cross‑contact. If you have food allergies or special dietary needs, you are strongly encouraged to bring your own packed lunch.
Where do I meet for the course?
Meet at Zoar Outdoor for registration, gear issue and transportation to paddling sites.