FAQ’s
Can a Kayak School be a family experience? Yes. Our kayak schools are for people of all ages, and are a perfect fit for active family vacations. The program lets you learn at your own pace so everyone in the group can enjoy as much excitement as they want. We have hosted families with 3 generations paddling together! The Downriver trip is perfect for friends and family to join together for a relaxing river adventure; you shredding in your whitewater kayak, while friends and family float on rafts or in inflatable kayaks. Our trips have something for everyone.
Do I have to be a good swimmer? Since kayakers wear U.S. Coast Guard approved life jackets & helmets, a strong swimming ability is not needed for a safe and enjoyable trip. We do encourage folks to have basic swimming knowledge.
Do I need a wetsuit? Wet suits are not required but highly encouraged. Please let us know if you need to use one of ours.
Should I bring a camera? Yes! The Rogue River is such a beautiful river canyon. Due to the nature of our trips, we recommend a waterproof camera. Even though it can be difficult to take photos while kayaking, there will be lots of time on the flat water sections and on land to capture the memories. We can also provide you with a water/shock-proof ammo box to protect your camera equipment until we get to camp.
What type of meals can be expected? We emphasize wholesome, fresh, delicious meals. A typical camp meal will include an appetizer, main meal and dessert! We can cater to a wide variety of dietary restrictions, please let us know at the time of your reservation if you have any.
Do you recommend travel insurance? Yes. Life is full of unexpected circumstances and travel insurance can reimburse you in the event of a last minute cancellation. We recommend purchasing Travel Insurance to protect your reservation.
Do I need my own kayak gear? No. Although you are encouraged to bring any personal equipment that you might have, we have all of your kayaking equipment covered. Sundance Kayak School will outfit you with “the big 5”. This is a boat, paddle, life jacket, spray skirt, and helmet. We will also be able to provide you with a “farmer john” style wetsuit, and a splash jacket for staying warm in the river.Although you are STRONGLY encouraged to bring your own booties or flexible water shoes, we can occasionally provide you with loaners.
Will I be cold? Not likely. From mid-June through mid-September, the weather in southern Oregon is usually clear and hot. With daytime temperatures averaging between 80-90 degrees, and nighttime lows in the mid-50s.Summer water temperatures on the Rogue are relatively warm, ranging from about 65-70+ degrees – which is great because kayakers like to get wet! The key to staying warm is being properly dressed for the conditions.
What is your cancellation policy?
Standard Cancellation Policy (Does not apply to the “Women’s Holistic Kayak Workshop”)
We value a low student-instructor ratio to ensure high quality instruction and have limited space available on our trips. Your deposit holds your spot for the trip and may result in turning away other guests.
Your deposit is non-refundable. Payment in full is required 60 days prior to the start of your trip. If you need to cancel your reservation, we must receive written notice more than 60 days prior to the start of the trip. This will result in a refund minus your deposit. Any cancellations made within 60 days from the start of the trip will not be refunded. If you cancel your reservation within 60 days of the start of your trip, you will have the opportunity to retain any funds paid to Sundance as a credit for 1 full calendar year EXCEPT for your deposit which will be considered a cancellation fee and will not be credited or refunded.
Spring 2020 Covid-19 Cancellation Policy: Applies to Reservations made before June 1st 2020 (Does not apply to the “Women’s Holistic Kayak Workshop”)
We are a very small business and we rely partially on Spring deposits and credit to carry us into and through the summer season. The truth is that if we were to refund all of our reservations at this time, we would surely go out of business. Many outfitters that I know of are offering credit-only in order to weather this economic downturn. Some businesses have even toughened their policies to retain as many dollars as possible for economic survival.
However, as this economic crisis wears on, many people are suffering. Some families may be unable to pay their rent and may even be insecure about providing food. Sundance has always been more interested in helping people than the bottom line and while we are not known for our popularity in marketing and self promotion, we are well known for having a really big heart.. and in times like these, our friends, family and community need all of the help that they can get.
Due to the unfortunate circumstances and uncertainty caused by the Covid-19 Pandemic, our Spring 2020 cancellation policy is as follows:
Credit: Regardless if you choose to cancel your trip with us, or if you are forced to cancel your trip through no fault of your own, we are humbly asking all current clients to please accept a credit for any monies paid to Sundance Kayak School, to be used for future Sundance Kayak School trips. Credits valid through the 2021 calendar year.
Refund: If you honestly feel you need a cash refund for your financial well-being or that of your family, then Sundance will grant you a full refund upon request. Please understand that cash refunds are detrimental to our business at this time and offering them is a financial risk to our company, however, we are sympathetic to the hardship that many families are facing at this time and we are committed to helping any clients who feel that they truly need it. This policy is based on the honor system and we trust your judgment.
The Spring 2020 Covid-19 Cancellation Policy only applies to reservations made before June 1st, 2020.
Special cancellation policy for the Women’s Holistic Kayak Workshop
Please follow the link to see the cancellation policy for this course only. We are using the California Women’s Watersport Collective cancellation policy for this course. https://www.cwwcollective.com/promos
Didn’t find the answer you’re looking for? Send us your question and if we’ve been asked it before we’ll add it to our Frequently Asked Questions for future kayakers!