$$ Texas Gulf Coast Sea Kayak Symposium

## Texas Gulf Coast Sea Kayak Symposium 2026

### Five Days of Skill-Building, Exploration & Coastal Adventure
Galveston, Texas | March 2–6, 2026 | Tuition: $800 (Early Bird) / $900 (Regular)
Join us for the inaugural Texas Gulf Coast Sea Kayak Symposium, a five-day paddling and skills development experience designed for sea kayakers eager to advance their coastal techniques while exploring the scenic waterways of Galveston Bay and the Texas Gulf Coast.
This symposium brings together ACA-certified instructors, seasoned local guides, and paddlers from across the country for a week of immersive training, guided tours, and community-building. Each day combines hands-on paddling sessions, classroom workshops, and evening gatherings — all set against the relaxed, off-season charm of Galveston.

### What to Expect

• Skill Development Tracks – Choose between foundations or progressive paddling sessions each day. Learn advanced strokes, rescues, towing, navigation, group management, and surf-zone techniques.
• Daily Guided Paddles – Explore the diverse Texas coast — from lush marshes and tranquil bayous to open water and barrier islands.
• Expert Instruction – Led by Constantin Platon (Kayaking Texas), Trey Rouss (The Power of Water, MI), and special guest West Hansen (Arctic Cowboys), alongside top ACA instructors and local trip leaders.
• Optional Add-ons –
• Pre-Symposium Program (Feb 27–Mar 1) – Early arrival for extra coaching or leisure paddles.
• Post-Symposium Expedition (Mar 7–9) – A 3-day, 2-night sea kayaking trip across Espiritu Santo Bay to Matagorda Island.

### Lodging & Meals

Participants will stay in shared Galveston Airbnb cabins, offering classroom space, communal meals, and comfortable accommodations near beaches and attractions.

• Lodging: ~$55 per person per night
• Meal Plan: $250 (includes most meals; two dinners on your own)

### Included with Tuition

• ACA-certified instruction
• Group transport & shuttles (including airport pickup for full-week attendees)
• Gear and boat transportation
• Access fees and insurance

### Kayak Rentals

Rent fully outfitted touring kayaks from top brands — NDK, P&H, Valley, Prijon, Wilderness Systems, and Current Designs.
Rental package: $500/week (includes kayak, paddle, spray skirt, PFD, bilge pump, and dry bag).

### Why Galveston?

When most of the U.S. is still in winter, the Texas Gulf Coast offers mild weather, abundant wildlife, and open water perfect for off-season paddling. Combine learning, adventure, and southern hospitality in one unforgettable event!

### Registration Info

• Opens: December 1, 2025
• Closes: February 1, 2026 (or when full – limited to 30 paddlers)
• Early Bird Discount: $100 off for the first 15 registrants
• Deposit: $300 non-refundable; balance due by February 10, 2026

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### Join the Adventure

Discover your next level of sea kayaking in Texas’ most inspiring coastal waters.
Call or Text: 832-686-3231
Email: kayakingtexasoak@gmail.com
Visit: kayakingtexas.com