What we’re about
Outdoor Adventures Kayaking Training & Tours [OAK T&T] is a Meetup Group dedicated to building a community of people interested in improving their coastal kayaking skills via formal training, and are interested in growing their kayaking expertise via day-touring experiences and kayak-camping expeditions.
Kayaking is great fun - just ask any paddler you find on the water. Kayaking offers so much to so many! Quiet leisure, intense adrenaline, or a path to exploration and adventure. Kayaking is a great way to access spectacular nature, experience reflective moments and to enjoy family and friends away from the distractions of life. Coastal kayaking helps paddlers build character, teach confidence and independence in a supportive environment filled with natural challenges, and provides a space to make your own decisions and to experience the consequences and the rewards, and encourages teamwork in stunning natural places.
OAK T&T is an inclusive group and is open to anyone interested in human-powered outdoor adventures (kayaking, hiking, camping, climbing, biking, backpacking, mountaineering). We enjoy paddling in day-touring kayaks and sea kayaks, both, plastic and composite hulls, but some of our friends paddle in sit-on-top kayaks.
OAK T&T offer safe and fun coastal kayak training and awesome touring experiences under the leadership of Constantin Platon [happy camper for 20+ years, ACA Level 3 Coastal Kayak Instructor and ACA Level 3 Trip Leader, and certified NOLS Wilderness First Aid, among other certifications].
Outdoor Adventures Kayaking Training & Tours [OAK T&T] is the Meetup branch of OAK GeoSciences.
OAK T&T Enthusiasts are welcome to bring their own kayaking gear or rent kayaking gear from our fleet of high-end European brands of single seat touring kayaks and sea kayaks, including Prijon kayaks (Made in Germany) and Valley and P&H kayaks (Made in England). We also have half-a-dozen of great-looking sit-inside tandem kayaks proudly made in USA by Wilderness Systems and Dagger. We paddle with high-quality paddles made by Werner and Aqua Bound.
OAK T&T Enthusiasts are encouraged to post ideas for future trainings and trips.
OAK T&T events follow the code of ethics and guidelines established by American Canoe Association. All participants must wear a properly-fitted U.S. Coast Guard approved lifejacket at all times during on-water activities.
For your membership to be considered, please answer our introductory questionnaire and upload your avatar/profile picture. Kayaking can be dangerous and your wellbeing or your property can be at risk. By attending our events you are taking personal responsibility for your wellbeing and property and are attending at your own risk.
Thank you for checking out OAK T&T and we are looking forward to be paddling together soon!
Please reach out to us if you have any questions kayaking related - we would love to help you out!
On behalf of the OAK T&T community of coastal kayakers: Warmest Greetings!
Constantin
Upcoming events (4+)
See all- The Moth: A Record Breaking Adventurer Crosses the English Channel in a BathtubNeeds location
Tim FitzHigham is an English comedian, author, and artist. He is an amazing storyteller who employs great humor in sharing his fabulous story, a record breaking adventure, about crossing the English Channel in a bath. That's right, in a bathtub, not in a kayak.
Click the link below to listen his story on The Moth Radio. Enjoy!
https://themoth.org/radio-hour/bathtub-sailor-seamstress-spy
Constantin has a few grand stories of his own about prevailing despite adversity, ongoing changes and mounting challenges, lessons learned first hand from leading winter big wall rock climbing trips in the Romanian Carpathian Mountains. From mountaineering expeditions, climbing twice in different winters to the top of the Mount Rainier and falling into an active volcano. From week long self supported mountain biking touring with a 6-year old kid on the Continental Divide in Colorado, and kayaking with two kids for 11+ days down Green River in Utah.
These stories could inspire, motivate and entertain a crowd.
Constantin is hired to for speaker engagements and run team building events for companies, church groups, bachelor parties, birthday parties, and other group functions.
Let's get in touch for a a large portfolio of speeches tailored to the needs of your audience and get you a quote.
More about our events, and pictures at this link below:
https://www.oakgeosciences.com/team-building
Please leave a comment below if you had a laughter listening to Fitz's story. Thank you!
Constantin
- $$ Super Ladies Go Kayaking! Women's Only Kayaking Class, Lake WoodlandsLake Woodlands, The Woodlands, TX
Kayaking is a wonderful, lifelong, low-impact, human-powered sport.
It's a form of soul therapy, an awesome mode of transportation to remote destinations, and a stealthy way to intimately experience wildlife and nature.This 4-hour truly stress-free class is designed for water-centric women to practice new skills at a relaxed pace, with top-of-the-line kayaking gear, in the convenience of a local waterway and in the comfort of like-minded Super Ladies. Great class for adventurous Girl Scouts and Women Fellowships Groups to master new skills or to improve upon what you already know about kayaking.
WHO IS THIS CLASS FOR?
If you find yourself wishing to paddle in open lakes, bayous and bays along the gulf coast, or in large rivers, or if you have never taken a kayaking class, then this “Super Ladies Learn Kayaking! Women's Only Kayaking Class” is for you!
You will learn about proper strokes and correct paddling technique, basics of water safety, trip planning, and how to have an enjoyable time on the water. This is a great way to build a new skill set or improve upon what you already know about kayaking.
Call Constantin at 832-686-3231 to confirm logistics, gear size, to answer your questions and process payment.
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REGISTRATION:
$199 + tax per person
All premium gear & qualified instruction included.In advance registration required
We take Venmo, PayPal, card over the phone.Minimum 4 Super Ladies
Small group size (max 6)Sign up early!! This class is cross posted on several platforms.
Call Constantin at 832-686-3231 to confirm logistics, gear size, to answer your questions and process payment.
We take appointments. This class can be rescheduled for a time and location that's convenient for you and your party of 4. Let's talk!
Safe adventure. Relaxed pace. Local expertise. Convenient venue. Small group size. Awesome sea kayaks and premium quality kayaking gear.
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GEAR PROVIDED:
Registration includes instruction from ACA certified instructor and rental of a completely equipped kayak (sit-inside sea touring kayak, lightweight paddle, adjustable lifejacket, bilge pump, paddle float, dry bag) and use of group gear (tow rope, rescue sling, VHS radio, first aid kit, flares, and signalizing devices).
We carry insurance. A waiver must be filled.
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WHAT TO BRING:
Bring drinking water and a snack. Bring with you a towel and a set of dry clothing for a comfortable ride home. We might be getting wet. Dress for immersion by dressing only with synthetic clothing and by avoiding any cotton clothing while on water. Bring water shoes (closed toed sandals, or old snickers; no crocs, flip-flops or rain boots). Wear outdoor, fast drying, non-cotton/synthetic clothing. Wear paddling / cycling / workout gloves to avoid hand blisters. A large brim hat and sunglasses, along with plenty of sunscreen are helpful, or wear long sleeve shirts and long pants to avoid sunburns and insects.
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NOT SURE IF KAYAKING IS FOR YOU? Check out this photo album:
Super Ladies Kayaking Classes - PHOTO ALBUM
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If the water and air temperatures are acceptable for most people, we might be getting wet. Our teaching philosophy is “challenged by choice” so you can opt-out of some of the exercises and scenarios we play.
This is a 4-hour long class and most of it will be spent padding on the water. Class curriculum and itinerary can be shortened or lengthened based on circumstances.
This class requires an easy to moderate fitness level.
Our kayaks come in sizes and can accommodate paddlers up to 250 lbs.
By the end of this class, you will become a more confident Adventurous Super Lady kayaker and will feel more comfortable having the proper skills to go kayaking.
This class is limited to 6 Super Ladies; however, minimum 4 Super Ladies are necessary to run the class. Open to ages 13 and up. With a small student to instructor ratio, you will receive personal instruction and feedback.
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I am excited for the opportunity to share with you from my expertise and I look forward to paddling together!
Constantin
(Call/Text: 832-686-3231)Your instructor is certified!
ACA L-3 Coastal Kayak Instructor
ACA L-3 River Kayak Instructor
ACA L-2 Trip Leader
ACA Canoe and SUP
NOLS Wilderness First AidHave in mind a different drill, date, or destination? Want to hire us for a corporate team building or family event? Let’s get in touch!
Born to Paddle!
- $$ River Canoe Tour [Colorado River, Columbus, TX]Beason's Crossing Park, Columbus, TX
$199 per adult | 3-4 hours guided canoe tour down Texas Colorado River around historical town of Columbus, TX | Small group size: minimum 4 |
Activity Duration: 3-4 hours
Paddling Time: 3-4 hours
Paddling Distance: 7 miles
Requires 30 minutes shuttle= = =
THIS CANOE TOUR CAN BE RE-SCHEDULED AT A DATE CONVINIENT TO YOU. PRIVATE EVENT, PREPAID REGISTRATION REQUIRED. WE TAKE APPOINTMENTS.
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COLUMBUBSS LOOP TOUR SIGNIFICANCE: On this stretch of the Texas Colorado River, we will see a mix of gently-sloping to steep sandy banks, flat flood plains, and tree-lined ridges with mature trees. We will take a couple of stops on gravel bars to look at riverbank's morphology, channel shape and dimensions, analyze bedrock and geomorphologic features associated with stream and floods.
More than 850 miles long, the Texas Colorado River is the longest river to start and end in the same state and is the lifeblood of our state’s economy, our environment, our industry, our agriculture, and especially our lives as Texans.
In addition to paddling instruction and geology, we will discuss Texas history. Our river float will end at a place where the Texas Army under the leadership of General Sam Houston and the Mexican Army under the leadership of General Santa Ana crossed the Colorado River before their clash at San Jacinto.
This eco-tour is ideal for families with kids and for beginner paddlers that want to take their skills up a notch and experience a grander setting.
Awesome trip for those that enjoy history, geology, nature, serenity and adventures.
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Outstanding geology & history learning opportunity. Experienced trip leader. Awesome destination.
Equipment: We use professional grade canoes designed for touring. They are stable, comfortable and track well.
Requirements: Good balance skills and reasonable fitness level is advisable. Our sit-inside cockpit touring kayaks can accommodate paddlers only up to 250 lbs. or less. Our tandem canoes have a cargo capacity of about 1,000 lbs. Best for outdoor enthusiasts without motion or sea sickness, comfortable with vigorous exercise. No previous paddling or swimming experience required - instruction provided!
Itinerary tailored to guests' desire, fitness level, group dynamics, weather conditions, etc.
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Sign up early!!
A RSVP “Yes” on Meetup merely states your interest.
Seats fill up quickly - the tour is cross posted on several platforms.***TO SIGN UP & CONFIRM LOGISTICS CALL 832-686-3231 ***
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GEAR PROVIDED WITH REGISTRATION:
Single seat OR tandem touring kayak OR tandem canoe
Lightweight paddle
Adjustable life jacket
Small size dry bag for car keys, wallet, phone
Group first aid kit, safety and recue kit (bilge pump, paddle float, tow rope, lights, VHF radio, etc)= = =
WHAT TO BRING/HOW TO DRESS:
Bring 2 water bottles and pack a snack to take with you in the kayak. Bring with you a towel and a set of dry clothing to change at the end for a comfortable ride home.
Dress only with synthetic clothing. Wear outdoor, fast drying, non-cotton/synthetic clothing like hiking pants and shirts. Long sleeve shirts and long pants prevent sunburn and insect bites.
Bring water shoes/closed toed sandals; old sneakers work great. No crocs, no flip-flops, no rain boots. Wear paddling gloves or cycling/ workout gloves to prevent blisters and sunburn on hands.
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UNDECIDED? Check out our photo album:
2019-2023 Texas Colorado River Columbus Loop
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CREDENTIALS: This tour is organized by Constantin Platon, an experienced outdoor educator, geology professor, and happy camper with 25+ years of experience, and the following certifications:
ACA Trip Leader & Eskimo Roll Endorsements
ACA Level-3 Coastal/Sea Kayak Instructor
ACA Level-3 River/Whitewater Kayak Instructor
ACA Level-3 River & Flatwater Canoe Instructor (Solo & Tandem)
ACA Trip Leader Endorsement
NOLS and Sierra International Wilderness First Aid= = =
PLEASE REPLY WITH YOUR PHONE NUMBER!
I am excited to share with you from my expertise, and I look forward to paddling together!
Constantin
[Call/Text: 832-686-3231]LET'S GET SOCIAL!
https://www.facebook.com/groups/1022107514968636
Do you have in mind a Different Drill, Date or Destination?
We also run team building events, birthday parties, church functions, historical and geological field trips and eco tours; overnight camping excursions down the river and weekend long adventures at sea along the Gulf Coast; and advanced paddling skills courses.
Born to Paddle!
- Sea Kayak Self Rescue Technique: Heel Hook Paddle Float | Free Virtual TrainingNeeds location
Contrary to the the hype that manufacturers generate about kayak "stability", these small craft are relatively easy to capsize. That's especially true of narrow designs but is also the case with wide kayaks that are so stable you can stand up in them.
The reality of kayaking is that it's a water sport. For most paddlers, it's not a question of whether they'll ever capsize, it's a matter of when.
For many paddlers, that moment comes sooner rather than later - and it always comes as a big, unwelcome surprise. One second you're a kayaker, the next second, you're swimming. This is also the point at which most kayaking fatalities happen.
Being able to get back into your kayak after capsizing is an important skill, because if you can't, you only have two bad options: swimming for shore or waiting for someone to come and rescue you.
That's why being able to smoothly perform a tandem or self-rescue is so important. If you've practiced having a fellow kayaker assist you in the rescue (tandem), you can easily get it done. Solo is not nearly so easy, particularly if the water is rough.
Constantin has been an American Canoe Association Coastal Kayak Instructor and Trip Leader for many years and has decades of experience teaching kayaking and racing kayaks and canoes. An outdoor adventurer specialized in human-powered sports, Constantin has travel the world and has been a happy camper for 20+ years.
My advice to you is take a formal, in person, kayaking class with Constantin, to learn more, and to receive personalized feedback, even if you have been paddling for many years.
Expert advice cost less than the doctor bill... :)
Here's an excellent video by Jeremy Vore that covers the Sea Kayaking Heel Hook Paddle Float Self-Rescue.
This tutorial is a great contribution to paddle sports safety, and I particularly liked the many key points covered - a lot of which are omitted from the usual self-rescue videos. As this video notes, the rescue isn't complete until the cockpit is pumped out, the skirt attached, the float stowed, and the paddler is ready to go.
A common refrain in incidents where rescues failed is "every wave washed into the cockpit - pumping was useless". That's why you practice with the sprayskirt on - as demonstrated in the video.
Another thing I appreciated was the way in which the paddle was placed on the deck - loosely held by the deckline. Removing the paddle from behind you with one hand is a frequent cause of secondary capsizes. This method slips it out smoothly and quickly, and with deflation conducted with the float still attached, support is maintained during the final phase of the rescue.
Good points, well stated, and five stars, well-earned. Click this link below to see the video on YouTube.
Sea Kayaking Self-Rescue: Heel Hook Paddle Float
BTW - this isn't the only one method of self-rescue. A safety-conscious paddler will be familiar with several methods.
Again, give Constantin a call at 832-686-3231 to learn more about kayaking and to sign up for an in-person kayaking class, a guided tour at sea or inland along rivers and bayous, a 1-3-nights or up to 1-week long kayak-camping adventure, kayak service/repair, and more.
Thanks for watching and please let us know your thoughts in the comment section below. Many thanks!
I look forward to paddling together soon! See you on the water!
Constantin
(Call/Text 832-686-3231)Endless drive for exploration!
Hardwired for adventure!Born to paddle!
![$$ River Canoe Tour [Colorado River, Columbus, TX] cover photo](https://secure.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/b/5/6/9/event_521686441.webp "$$ River Canoe Tour [Colorado River, Columbus, TX]")
