Bonus Level 02: Swiftwater Lab

Custom. Practical. Next-Level Swiftwater Skills.

Swiftwater Lab is a one-day, scenario-driven rescue course built for paddlers who want to take their river safety skills to the next level. Designed as a progression from our River Ready course—or for those with prior swiftwater training—this class focuses entirely on real-life scenarios, boat-based rescues, and the specific challenges you’ve faced (or want to be ready for).

A certified swiftwater rescue instructor teaches a student how to safely get a kayaker across the waterduring the Level Up Kayak School Swiftwater Rescue Lab course.

There’s no set script here. This course is shaped by you—your past river experiences, your questions, and the moments where you thought, “What should I have done there?”

Whether you’re looking for more hands-on practice, targeted feedback, or deeper understanding of team-based rescue in dynamic environments, Swiftwater Lab is your space to refine, explore, and level up.

Skills We'll Cover

  • Self-rescue and personal safety

  • Throw rope use and swimmer rescues

  • Wading techniques and basic rope systems

  • Live bait rescues and basic mechanical advantage

  • Scene management and group communication

  • Risk assessment and how to actually use your gear

Prerequisites:

  • Comfortable on Class III whitewater and starting to explore Class IV

  • Solid boat control, including eddy turns, ferries, and precise line execution

  • Reliable combat roll in moving water

  • Experience catching small eddies and navigating technical rapids

  • Basic swiftwater safety knowledge and ability to operate in a team setting

  • Physically fit and ready for a full days of active paddling

Course Format

  • 1 full day: 8:30am – 5:30pm
  • Customized scenario training based on participant goals

  • Boat-based rescue drills and in-the-moment decision making

  • Emphasis on realistic, dynamic problem solving

  • Advanced throw rope work, live bait reps, and team communication

  • Instructors coaching with you, not just at you

  • Bring your own lunch*

This isn’t a repeat—it’s a refinement

If you're serious about being a capable paddler and teammate on the water, Swiftwater Lab is where theory meets real-world application.

Book Your Swiftwater Lab Course Today

Dates will be posted in 2026. Make sure to check back to get your slot booked!