Tue, 01/24/2023 - 09:33 am

Matt Lutkus

Sea kayak pool sessions are upcoming at the Boothbay Region YMCA. Courtesy photo

Space is still available in the four remaining sea kayak pool sessions at the Boothbay Region YMCA. The Maine Association of Sea Kayak Guides and Instructors (MASKGI) has been working with the YMCA to provide this chance for anyone who wishes to work on their paddling skills during the off-season. This is a great opportunity for those new to paddling who would like to practice essential self-rescue and assisted-rescue skills, others who want to work on bracing and more experienced paddlers who wish to develop the muscle memory for bombproof Eskimo rolls in a safe indoor pool setting. Although formal instruction will not be provided, the mix of people with different skill levels will allow for the sharing of tips and techniques.

The Y is located in Boothbay Harbor at 261 Townsend Avenue (Route 27).

There will be four more 90-minute sessions, all of which are taking place on the second Saturdays of February and March. The dates and times for the sessions are as follows: Feb. 11- 11 a.m. to 12:30 and 12:30 to 2 p.m.; March 11- 11 a.m. to 12:30 and 12:30 to 2 p.m.

The cost per 90-minute session is $25 for MASKGI members and $35 for non-members. Note that membership in MASKGI is open to guides and non-guides alike for $30 per year.

Each session will be limited to seven participants. Reservations and payment are required and can be made through the MASKGI.org website. Each participant will also need to complete a waiver form.

More details on the Boothbay open pool sessions will be sent to those who sign up. In addition, anyone wishing more information, may contact Matt Lutkus at mattlutkus@hotmail.com.