SYMPOSIA

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2026 Skills Symposium & Ocean Gathering

Celebrating 20 Years of Paddling Development

October 19–21, 2026 · Tybee Island, Georgia

Sea Kayak Georgia is thrilled to offer our 2026 Ocean Gathering Symposium on Tybee Island and the surrounding waters.

Together with the Sea Kayak Georgia team, we will lead specialized training sessions designed for paddlers ready to advance their skills. The event focuses on advanced stroke refinement in flat water and transitioning to dynamic environments — including small wave passages, tides, and wind work.

Course Curriculum

🌊 Flatwater Focus

  • Advanced strokes and maneuvers
  • Rescues and towing scenarios
  • Leadership training
  • Goal: Fine-tune technique to prepare for more difficult paddling environments

🌊 Dynamic Water Focus

  • Entry to intermediate boat control
  • Rescues and towing in dynamic water
  • Intro to sea kayak surfing

Prerequisite Skill Levels

Intro Intermediate Skill Level and Above Required

This symposium is for paddlers who already possess a solid stroke foundation and a reliable self-rescue, and are ready to work beyond flat water. Rolling is helpful, but not necessary.

Track Requirements
Flatwater Classes Knowledge of basic strokes and experience with capsizes and rescues. Looking to refine technique with a desire to move into dynamic water.
Dynamic Water Classes Able to control your boat in more than flat water and have successfully self-rescued in an outdoor environment prior to class.

Event Schedule

Monday, October 19
  • 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM — Intermediate Skills Refinement
  • 6:00 PM — Dinner Meet Up (location TBD)
Tuesday, October 20
  • 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM — Dynamic Water Skills Refinement Session
  • 6:00 PM — Dinner Meet Up (location TBD)
Wednesday, October 21
  • 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM — Dynamic Water and Surfing Skills Session
  • 2:00 PM – 3:00 PM — Wrap-Up (exact time TBD based on session progress)
  • Followed by — Dinner Meet Up (location TBD)
Scheduling note: The schedule is subject to change based on weather and sea conditions. Come prepared to "go with the flow," and check the forecast right up until the last minute. October weather on Tybee can range from very warm to slightly cool.

What to Bring

  • Appropriate clothing for the day's conditions
  • Helmet (required for dynamic water/surf)
  • Hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen
  • Food and plenty of water for the day
  • Suggested: a thermos with a hot beverage

Food & Hydration

  • On the water: Plan food and water for yourself based on temperature and your usual daily needs.
  • Evenings: Paddlers are responsible for the cost of their own meals at evening get-togethers.

Pricing

Item Cost
Course Fee (must be taken as a block) $400
Event T-Shirt $45
Plastic Kayak Rental $65 / day
Fiberglass Kayak Rental $90 / day

Registration & Policies

How to Register

Registration and waivers are handled electronically.

📞 Call: 912-786-8732
✉️ Email: info@seakayakgeorgia.com

Have the following ready when you call:

  • Name and contact info
  • Payment details (stored and charged prior to event)
  • Kayak information (own boat or rental needs)
  • Your current skill level

Cancellation Policy

Due to the nature of weather and staffing commitments, refunds are not possible for any reason. We strongly recommend purchasing trip insurance to protect your investment.

The "Hometown" Vibe

This is a small, hometown community gathering, and we like to keep it family-style. The days are action-packed, so come rested and ready to power through and make the most of your time on the water. We look forward to coming together, catching up, and sharing some incredible paddling!

Local Resources

Lodging

  • Tybee Vacation Rentals
  • Mermaid Cottages
  • Oceanfront Cottages
  • Tybee Cottage Rentals

Grocery Stores

  • On Tybee: Tybee Market IGA
  • Wilmington Island (short drive inland): Publix
  • Savannah (further inland): Whole Foods